A Visitor’s Guide to the Nagasaki Lantern Festival 2025

If you think January is just for post-Christmas sulking and gym memberships you’ll never use, then Nagasaki has something far better to offer. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival, kicking off on the 29th of January 2025 and lasting a glorious fifteen days, will make you see winter in a whole new (and beautifully illuminated) light.

A spectacle of Chinese culture, this annual event fills the city with over 15,000 lanterns, turning the streets into a sea of colour, history, and tradition.

Whether you’re a lantern aficionado or just fancy a trip to Japan with a difference, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this magical festival.

What Is the Nagasaki Lantern Festival?

Let’s start with the basics. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival is the largest event of its kind in Japan, originally begun as a small Chinese New Year celebration among the city’s Chinese merchants. Over time, it’s grown into a full-scale, city-wide extravaganza, showcasing traditional Chinese culture alongside Nagasaki’s unique fusion of Japanese and Chinese heritage.

For fifteen days, the city is adorned with colourful lanterns—around 15,000, to be precise. They’re not just your average glowing orbs either; these are intricately designed works of art. Expect everything from mythical creatures to animals of the Chinese zodiac, all shimmering against the night sky.

One fascinating tale tied to Nagasaki’s Chinese community is the story of the Mazu Procession. This traditional parade recreates the journey made by Chinese sailors who docked in Nagasaki, seeking blessings from the sea goddess Mazu before setting sail again. It’s a nod to the city’s history as a crucial port in East Asian trade.

Another story often recounted is the creation of the Emperor Parade. Inspired by Chinese imperial processions, it features actors in opulent costumes representing the Emperor and Empress, carried in palanquins through the streets. This parade symbolises the connection between Nagasaki’s past and the enduring influence of Chinese culture.

Where to Go and What to See

Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown is the heart of the festival. As Japan’s oldest Chinatown, it’s a hive of activity, brimming with delicious food stalls, traditional decorations, and cultural performances. This historic district covers just a city block, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm and culinary delights. Don’t leave without trying Chanpon or Sara Udon, two noodle dishes that are as iconic here as the lanterns themselves.

The festivities extend well beyond Chinatown. Minato Park and Chuo Park become vibrant hubs of celebration, while the historic Megane Bridge (or Spectacles Bridge, so-called for its reflection resembling a pair of glasses) is lit up in a golden glow, creating one of the festival’s most Instagram-worthy scenes. Meanwhile, Kanko-dori Arcade in Hamanomachi adds a more modern touch to the celebrations.

Each area brings its own unique colour palette to the festivities. Megane Bridge, for instance, glows with regal yellow lanterns, while Chinatown is dotted with playful pinks. The attention to detail makes wandering the streets an adventure in itself.

The Cultural Significance of Lanterns

Lanterns have long been a symbol of hope, prosperity, and unity in Chinese culture. Traditionally used to illuminate paths and guide the way, they carry a deeper meaning during festivals, acting as beacons of good fortune and a way to ward off evil spirits. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival embraces this symbolism on a grand scale, transforming the city into a vibrant tapestry of light. The colours, too, are more than decorative—red for luck and happiness, yellow for royalty and prosperity, and pink for charm and playfulness, each hue resonating with specific cultural meanings.

At the festival, lanterns are not just hung or displayed—they tell stories. From mythical creatures to historic Chinese figures, the designs bring the tales of ancient China to life. For visitors, these glowing artworks are an opportunity to connect with the spirit of the Lunar New Year and the rich traditions that have endured through centuries.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Lanterns

Creating the stunning lanterns that adorn Nagasaki is no easy feat. These luminous works of art are the result of meticulous craftsmanship, often made by artisans trained in traditional Chinese techniques. Each lantern begins as a wireframe, which is shaped into elaborate designs—from dragons to zodiac animals. This frame is then wrapped in coloured silk or paper, with details painted or embroidered by hand.

Modern innovations have allowed for LED lighting to replace candles in many cases, making the displays safer and more energy-efficient. However, the artistry remains rooted in time-honoured practices. Some lanterns at the Nagasaki festival are even imported directly from China, ensuring the designs remain authentic and culturally resonant.

Festival Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss

The Emperor Parade is one of the festival’s main attractions. Picture a grand procession featuring participants in opulent Chinese costumes, flanked by flags and troops. At the centre of it all, the Emperor and Empress are carried through the streets in traditional palanquins. The parade is as much a spectacle of cultural pride as it is a dazzling visual display.

Another unmissable event is the Mazu Procession. This traditional parade recreates the route once taken by Chinese sailors as they entered Nagasaki’s port. Complete with lion dances, drumming, and vibrant costumes, it’s a historical reenactment that captures the city’s maritime heritage.

Of course, the lanterns themselves are the real stars of the show. Keep an eye out for the large art installations scattered across the city—each a masterpiece in its own right. From mythical dragons to larger-than-life zodiac animals, these pieces make every corner of Nagasaki a feast for the eyes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While the heart of the action is in Chinatown and Minato Park, there are quieter spots where you can appreciate the festival’s charm. Meganebashi, or Spectacles Bridge, offers a particularly enchanting view. Its reflection in the water, surrounded by lanterns, creates a dreamlike atmosphere away from the bustling crowds. Similarly, Kanko-dori Arcade, part of Hamanomachi Shopping Street, provides a blend of lantern displays and a chance to explore local shops at a leisurely pace.

For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, consider attending smaller events such as calligraphy demonstrations or tea ceremonies often hosted in local cultural centres. These hidden gems provide a deeper connection to the traditions celebrated during the festival.

Tips for Enjoying the Festival

If you’re planning to visit, timing is everything. Aim to arrive in the evening when the lanterns are lit and the city truly comes alive. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing plenty of walking, and layer up—it’s still winter, after all.

Foodies will be in their element, with countless street stalls offering everything from piping hot dumplings to Chinese sweets. Bring cash, as smaller vendors might not take cards.

Getting to Nagasaki is straightforward, whether you’re travelling from within Japan or further afield. From Tokyo, you can take a flight to Nagasaki Airport in just under two hours, followed by a 40-minute bus ride to the city centre. For a more scenic journey, consider taking the shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Osaka or Kyoto to Hakata, then transferring to the Kamome Limited Express for a picturesque ride into Nagasaki.

Once in the city, public transport is your best friend. Nagasaki’s tram network is affordable and convenient, with stops close to festival hotspots like Chinatown and Minato Park. If you’re staying nearby, many of the venues are walkable, allowing you to soak in the festival atmosphere as you stroll through the lantern-lit streets.

Why Nagasaki?

Nagasaki is the perfect host for this festival, with its long history of cultural exchange between Japan and China. This isn’t just a celebration of Chinese New Year; it’s a nod to the city’s multicultural heritage, making it one of the most unique destinations to experience the Lunar New Year.

Whether you’re captivated by the glow of lanterns, enchanted by traditional parades, or simply looking to escape the winter gloom, the Nagasaki Lantern Festival promises an unforgettable experience. Book your flights, pack your appetite, and prepare to be dazzled (by lanterns, not clichés). It’s time to make 2025 shine.

Post-Festival Sightseeing Ideas

The festival may only last 15 days, but Nagasaki offers plenty to explore even after the lanterns are packed away. A visit to the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum provides a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience and history. For something lighter, Glover Garden, a historic hilltop area, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Nagasaki’s international heritage.

Don’t miss Dejima, a fascinating reconstructed Dutch trading post that reveals the city’s role as Japan’s gateway to the West during its period of isolation. If you’re craving a bit of nature, Mount Inasa is the place to be. Take the ropeway to the summit for a spectacular night view that rivals even the lantern festival’s glow.

With these additional adventures, you’ll leave Nagasaki not just with memories of the Lantern Festival, but a deeper appreciation of the city’s unique blend of cultures and traditions.