Dejima is a fan-shaped artificial island in Nagasaki harbor that served as Japan's sole gateway to the West during the Edo-period isolation, hosting the Dutch trading post from 1641 to 1854. Today it is a nationally designated historic site where 16 Edo-era buildings, including the Chief Factor's (Kapitan's) residence, warehouses, and the old Dejima Seminary, have been reconstructed from excavations and historical records.
The unusual fan-shaped island itself, entered by crossing the Dejima Omotemon Bridge (Front Gate Bridge)
The Kapitan's Room, former residence of the Dutch chief factor, notable for its distinctive triangular staircase climbable from both sides
Exhibits on Rangaku ('Dutch learning'), the movement through which Western medicine, astronomy, and science entered Japan
The old Dejima Seminary, Japan's oldest surviving Protestant seminary building
Free guided tours (limited spots per session) that add depth through commentary from history staff
Good to know
RulesFrom April 1, 2026 the admission was revised to ¥1,100 for adults and ¥550 for elementary/junior/high school students, with group discounts abolished. Confirm current fees and hours on the official site before visiting.
RulesRe-entry is not permitted, so finish your visit before leaving across the Front Gate Bridge.
SeasonJune–July is the rainy season (tsuyu) with heavy rain, and typhoons in Aug–Sep can suspend the streetcar or disrupt transit, so build slack into your plans.
SafetyThe whole island is explored on foot with little shade, so in summer bring water and a hat and watch for heat exhaustion.
MannersInside the restored and surviving buildings, follow any photography or footwear guidance and avoid touching exhibits and the wooden structures.
Practical info
About a 1-minute walk from the 'Dejima' streetcar stop on Tram Line 1. Plan roughly 1–2 hours. Open 8:00–21:00 (last entry 20:40), year-round; verify fees, hours, and tour operation for the latest.
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