Experience Exotic Culture and Great Nature
Hirado, two hours and 10 minutes from Nagasaki city, is where Japanese–European trade started hundreds of years ago. With fascinating historical remnants dotted throughout the stunning countryside, Hirado Island is a must-visit destination for those who love vibrant natural scenery and centuries-old tales. Alongside some of Japan’s most serene mountain hiking, horseback riding, and coastal sunsets, you won’t regret choosing this remote spot as your next island getaway.
Hirado was the first Japanese port to welcome Portuguese, Dutch and British traders in 1550, with the present-day landscape featuring a myriad of Christian churches, white-sand beaches, and historic castles. Hirado′s history dates back not only to the city′s heyday of international trade with many Western nations during the Sengoku and Edo periods, but even further back to the era of Japan′s envoys to Sui and Tang China when the city was honored with visits from many important figures in Japanese history, and vestiges of this rich history still remain to this day. In addition to the city′s historical sites themselves, the city is also home to a history museum with exhibits which explore the city′s history in a clear, accessible way.The Dutch Trading Post still exists, and you can visit it while enjoying the surrounding picturesque scenery and beautiful seafront.
For nature lovers, Kawachi Pass is a beautiful walk offering a grand panoramic view of the island. On a clear day, you may even be able to spot the islands of Ikishima and Tsushima off in the distance. Hirado also offers travelers some remarkable beachfront experiences, with one of the most unique found at Senrigahama Beach and the Sea View Ranch. About a six-kilometer drive from the city center, visitors are welcome to sit down for a traditional Japanese meal before taking part in horseback riding along the sandy shores.
Hirado was the first Japanese port to welcome Portuguese, Dutch and British traders in 1550, with the present-day landscape featuring a myriad of Christian churches, white-sand beaches, and historic castles. Hirado′s history dates back not only to the city′s heyday of international trade with many Western nations during the Sengoku and Edo periods, but even further back to the era of Japan′s envoys to Sui and Tang China when the city was honored with visits from many important figures in Japanese history, and vestiges of this rich history still remain to this day. In addition to the city′s historical sites themselves, the city is also home to a history museum with exhibits which explore the city′s history in a clear, accessible way.The Dutch Trading Post still exists, and you can visit it while enjoying the surrounding picturesque scenery and beautiful seafront.
For nature lovers, Kawachi Pass is a beautiful walk offering a grand panoramic view of the island. On a clear day, you may even be able to spot the islands of Ikishima and Tsushima off in the distance. Hirado also offers travelers some remarkable beachfront experiences, with one of the most unique found at Senrigahama Beach and the Sea View Ranch. About a six-kilometer drive from the city center, visitors are welcome to sit down for a traditional Japanese meal before taking part in horseback riding along the sandy shores.
