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Dejima
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Dejima

Getting around: About a 15-20 minute walk from Nagasaki Station, or take the tram to the Dejima stop directly.
Hours: Typically 8am-9pm (last entry 30 min before close), open daily; paid admission.

Dejima was a small, fan-shaped artificial island built in Nagasaki harbor in 1636, and for over 200 years during Japan's period of national isolation, it was the country's only officially permitted point of direct contact with the West, first through Portuguese and then exclusively Dutch traders. Land reclamation over the centuries eventually absorbed the original island into the surrounding city, but a set of reconstructed buildings now recreates the trading post as it once was.

Walking through the restored warehouses, merchant residences, and offices gives a sense of this unusual chapter of controlled, isolated foreign trade that shaped Nagasaki's cosmopolitan character for centuries afterward.

Dejima FAQs

Why was Dejima significant historically?

For over 200 years during Japan's sakoku (closed country) period, it was the sole officially sanctioned point of contact with the West, exclusively through Dutch traders, making it Japan's narrow window onto the outside world.

Is Dejima still an island?

No, land reclamation over the centuries absorbed it into the surrounding city; the current site is a reconstruction of the original layout and buildings.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, a paid admission covers the reconstructed buildings and exhibits.

How long does a visit take?

About 1-1.5 hours.

Is it near other Nagasaki sights?

Yes, it's central and reachable easily from Nagasaki Chinatown and other harbor-area sights by tram or a short walk.

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