Category:Nagasaki Prefecture

Located in the **northwestern part of Kyushu**, Nagasaki Prefecture has long been Japan’s historic gateway to the outside world. With its many islands and scenic coastline facing the East China Sea, Nagasaki played a central role in international trade, cultural exchange, and the introduction of foreign techniques during Japan’s isolation period. This unique history is reflected in the prefecture’s crafts, which often blend Japanese tradition with international influences.

Nagasaki is known for its **openness and cosmopolitan spirit**. As the site of Japan’s only official port for foreign trade during the Edo period, Nagasaki absorbed artistic and technological ideas from China, Korea, and Europe. Its crafts often demonstrate a synthesis of Japanese aesthetics with foreign-inspired motifs and techniques.

• Hasami ware (波佐見焼, Hasami-yaki) – A porcelain tradition known for its simple, durable, and practical designs, widely used in everyday life.
• Mikawachi ware (三川内焼, Mikawachi-yaki) – Fine white porcelain with intricate cobalt-blue paintings, originally made for the ruling class and later exported.
• Nagasaki tortoiseshell work (長崎べっ甲, Nagasaki-bekkō) – Elegant lacquer-like craft made from hawksbill turtle shell, admired for its translucency and artistry.
• Nagasaki glassware (長崎ガラス, Nagasaki-garasu) – Glassmaking techniques introduced from Europe and China, later adapted into distinct Japanese styles.

Nagasaki Prefecture embodies the **fusion of Japanese tradition and international influence**. Its crafts stand as symbols of cultural exchange, innovation, and openness, reflecting the prefecture’s role as Japan’s historic link to the wider world.