The Chinese Connections

The impact of China on the history and culture of Nagasaki is gaining unprecedented attention in recent months because of China s up-and-coming role in international affairs. Launched only a few years ago by residents of Shinchi Chinatown, the Lantern Festival has grown into one of this city s most important and lucrative events. Nagasaki is also looking to China and other Asian countries for a new flow of tourist revenue, and groups of Chinese tourists and school children have begun to include Nagasaki in overseas trips.

One of the most important, and endangered, relics of the Chinese connection is the former T jinyashiki (Chinese Quarter) in present-day Kannai-machi. Most of the original buildings were destroyed as a result of fires and urban development over the years, leaving behind only a few restored structures including the Tenko-do and Dojin-do (photo above) shrines.

With its old brick walls and weathered stone pavement, the Kannai Market continues to exude the flavor of the former quarter, but it is also in danger of closure because of changes in the shopping patterns of local residents. The best way to preserve the neighborhood and to inject life into its economy is undoubtedly research and renewed interest in its unique history.