JASIN：Japan Studies in Nagasaki

Nagasaki, a city of about 500,000 people, is built around its natural harbor and climbs up the surrounding steep hills. The city boasts spectacular views and the proximity to natural sights such as its rugged coastline, beaches, islands, volcanic mountains, and a national park. Nagasaki enjoys a mild winter climate.

Its location at the end of the Japanese archipelago, nearest to China and the West, made Nagasaki the center of trade in the late 16th century. During the 250 years of national seclusion that followed, Nagasaki was the only port open to foreign trade, drawing a thriving Chinese trading community and serving as Japan's only window to the world. After Japan's opening in the middle of the 19th century, the port served the entry of modern technology, creating another flourishing community of British, American and Russian traders. An international flavor remains, even through the ravages of World War II and the Atomic Bombing, and can be seen in its many lively popular festivals, its architecture, its cuisine, and in the welcoming and friendly spirit of its residents. Nagasaki continues to be one of the major tourist destinations in the country.