The Historic Charm of Shimabara
Shimabara City, located in Nagasaki Prefecture, is a town rich in history, once flourishing as a castle town. The iconic Shimabara Castle, with its white walls and beautiful keep, is a popular attraction for visitors. Surrounding the castle are numerous samurai residences, allowing you to feel the nostalgic atmosphere of the old castle town. Strolling through these historic streets, you can enjoy the traditional architectural styles. Shimabara is also known for its delicious Japanese sweets and fresh seafood dishes.
Getting to Shimabara is very convenient. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Nagasaki City, and you can also take a bus or train. From Fukuoka, it’s roughly a 2.5-hour drive, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Driving through the scenic routes is highly recommended.
The Town’s Waterways and Abundant Spring Water
Shimabara is blessed with abundant spring water, a gift from volcanic activity. This pristine water flows through the town’s waterways, where colorful koi swim gracefully. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery while strolling along these picturesque channels. Known as the “City of Water,” Shimabara’s spring water is not only beautiful to look at but also drinkable. The water, infused with carbon dioxide and minerals, is exceptionally smooth and well-loved by locals. People from neighboring areas even come to collect this sought-after water.
Shimeiso: A Harmony of Tradition and Nature
Shimeiso is a historic residential garden built in the late Meiji era as a private residence for a doctor. Utilizing the abundant spring water, which is said to produce 3,000 tons per day, a large pond was created, where vibrant koi swim freely. The pond’s exceptional clarity contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery, including red pines. The tatami rooms extend over the pond, allowing you to sit on the veranda, stretch out your legs, and relax as you feel the breeze over the water. Just be careful not to fall into the pond!
Shimabara continues to captivate visitors with its historical allure and the spring water born from its volcanic surroundings. Be sure to visit this beautiful town in Nagasaki Prefecture and immerse yourself in its unique charm.
