Hirado,
Hirado is a beautiful historic island city located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its picturesque waterfront views and well-preserved traditional architecture. The city has a rich history as a former trading port and was once an important cultural and economic hub in Japan.
Visitors to Hirado can explore its historic sites, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax in the tranquil atmosphere of this charming coastal town.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historic Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Hirado Castle, a magnificent fortress with picturesque views of the city. Don't forget to explore the surrounding gardens and learn about the castle's rich history. For breakfast, try a traditional Japanese meal at Café Hiranoya.
afternoon:In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of Hirado Old Town. Visit the historic temples and shrines, such as Kameoka Shrine, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Uotora, known for its fresh seafood dishes.
evening:For the evening, head to Yutoku Inari Shrine to witness the beautiful illuminated torii gates at night. Afterward, experience the vibrant nightlife at Izakaya Hanasaku, a cozy bar serving local sake and tasty snacks.
Coastal Discovery
morning:Begin your day with a visit to Tabira Fishing Port to observe the lively morning fish market. Learn about the local fishing industry and savor a mouthwatering seafood breakfast at one of the portside restaurants.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic coastline of Hirado. Visit Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort for a boat tour around the beautiful islands and marvel at the breathtaking views. Refresh with a light lunch at Kujukushima Terrace overlooking the sea.
evening:For the evening, head to Hirado Beach to enjoy a serene sunset and take a relaxing evening walk along the tranquil shore. Then, head to Terrace Restaurant Horie for a delightful dinner experience by the sea.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Begin your day with a visit to Iwanaga Hachiman Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine surrounded by lush greenery. Explore the tranquil grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere. Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Sasaki Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and homemade treats.
afternoon:In the afternoon, visit Hirado Dutch Trading Post to learn about the fascinating history of Dutch influence in the region. Stroll through the captivating exhibits and enjoy a light lunch at Café Atelier Hirado, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
evening:For the evening, head to Hirado Castle Town area to explore the charming streets lined with traditional buildings and shops. Discover hidden gems and then unwind with a relaxing evening at Hana no Yu Onsen, a tranquil hot spring retreat.
Nature Escape
morning:Start your day with a visit to Hirado Tropical Botanical Garden, home to a diverse collection of exotic plants and vibrant flowers. Take a leisurely walk through the lush gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the botanical garden's café.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon exploring the tranquil surroundings of Hirado. Visit Mt. Kameishi for a scenic hike and breathtaking views of the city below. Indulge in a picnic lunch amidst the serene nature, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
evening:For the evening, head to Hirado Mountain Observatory to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the city and the sea. Afterward, visit a local izakaya in the city center to enjoy a cozy evening with delicious regional dishes and drinks.
Hirado Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Ikizukuri
Live sashimi prepared with seafood caught fresh from Hirado Bay. Best enjoyed at Kaisen Misaki restaurant.
Must-Try!
Hirado Hamburger
A regional specialty featuring a juicy patty made from locally raised Kuroge Wagyu beef, often found at local izakayas such as Yamaguchi-ya.
Saikyo-zuke
Grilled fish marinated in sweet Kyoto-style miso. Savor the finest Saikyo-zuke at Nishiki restaurant.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Hirado Morning Market
Visit this bustling market to sample fresh seafood, pickles, and local snacks like senbei (rice crackers) and manju (sweet buns).
Yumekamome Street Food Stalls
Embark on a culinary journey at Yumekamome to relish street food delights like takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts).
Pet sitters in Hirado
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!