In this episode, we being our adventures in Kyushu, Japan with an overnight stay in Nagasaki. Nagasaki enjoys a rich history as being one of the initial inroads for European explorers, culture and goods into Japan. In fact, prior to the Portuguese establishing a port there in the 16th century, Nagasaki was a small fishing village pretty much secluded from the rest of Japan. From there, Nagasaki grew in importance as one of the few open ports of trade between Japan and the rest of the world during Japan’s period of isolation.

Nagasaki offers a variety of amenities and attractions to suit any discerning traveler, from the mysterious Gunkanjima to the serene Glover Gardens and numerous parks and shrines. A beautiful port city surrounded by lush rolling mountains, Nagasaki boasts one of the most spectacular cityscapes, especially in the evening atop Mt. Inasayama which is considered one of the top vantage points in all of Japan. Of course, a visit to Nagasaki would not be complete without a stop at the Nagasaki Peace Park and Museum – a somber memorial to the tragic past of the city but also a strong message of hope for a better future.