Sasebo Presents a Special Journey
Where Natural Beauty, Traditional Dance, and Culture Converge

Located in northern Nagasaki Prefecture, Sasebo City is a port town that has walked hand in hand with the sea. Here, two international cruise hubs, “Miura Port” and “Uragashira Port,” offer distinct charms, each opening the curtain on a uniquely colored journey depending on the port of call.


 

For a special journey, wouldn't you agree a good partner who can speak to the true value of the land is essential?

The Sea Wind Country Concierge is a professional guide proficient in Sasebo's history, culture, and nature, who values the spirit of hospitality and is capable of communicating in English. They are not merely guides; they are storytellers equipped with the deep knowledge you seek, supporting your journey by conveying the charm of the land. They accompany you on premium tours requiring advance reservations or on custom-made trips available on the day, delivering irreplaceable moments that stimulate your intellectual curiosity.


Concierge Introduction （Coming soon）

 

Sasebo offers unforgettable experiences found nowhere else. We invite you to a special, reservation-only day exploring the dignified historical sites of the Edo period and the sacred grounds of Shinto rituals performed only by chosen successors.
 

|  Act One: Echoes of the Feudal Lord and Drops of Tradition (Historic Emukae Honjin & Senryu Sake Brewery)
 

Your journey begins at the Nagasaki Prefecture-designated historic site “Historic Emukae Honjin.” This prestigious inn once hosted the feudal lord of Hirado during his mandatory travels to Edo. Its beautiful garden and the elegant design of the lord's private “O-nari-no-ma” room will transport visitors back centuries to Japan's past.
At the adjoining “Senryu Sake Brewery,” you can sample locally brewed sake crafted with traditional techniques. Exploring this space steeped in historical grandeur and savoring the rich droplets of sake offers an opportunity to experience the region's rich terroir with all five senses.
 

|  Act 2: Mysterious Time Flowing in the Sacred Precincts (Special Opening at Iimori Shrine)

Next, we visit the “Iimori Shrine,” enveloped in a serene atmosphere.
The atmosphere of the worship hall, unchanged since its founding, and the uniquely slow passage of time deeply stir the hearts of all who visit.
Here, we will hold a special viewing exclusively for tour participants of the “Hirado Kagura,” designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. You will witness three traditional performances.


1. The Purification Ritual: A cleansing performance announcing the start of the kagura, purifying the four directions.

2. The Mountain God: A performance danced in a mysterious yet dynamic atmosphere, featuring unique masks.

3. The Sword Dance: A dignified performance where priests draw their swords and dance with heroic vigor. The overwhelming skill using the three-swing sword is also a symbol of the samurai spirit that wards off evil spirits.


Today, only a handful of practitioners in the northern part of the prefecture carry on these advanced techniques. Hirado Kagura is a valuable traditional performing art passed down as a sacred ritual. This tour offers matcha tea and Japanese sweets to enjoy while viewing the Hirado Kagura performance.
*Please note the program may be adjusted to the optimal format based on the day's schedule and circumstances.
 

For those wishing to explore freely, we offer five model courses.
You can also request a guide on standby that day without a reservation.

 

1． Course to Enjoy Sasebo's Deep Charm in the Town Center (Walking)
 

A walking course that unearths stories hidden within Sasebo's streets, stimulating intellectual curiosity.

Miura Catholic Church: A beautiful Gothic-style church with a remarkable history. During WWII, it was painted black on military orders to avoid being targeted in air raids, thus escaping destruction.

Kurokamizan Daichiin: A historic temple said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi in 806. Visiting its tranquil grounds offers a precious moment to connect with Japanese spirituality.

Tonoo Market & Tunnel Yokocho shopping Street: A globally rare shopping district utilizing wartime air-raid shelters converted into shops. Witnessing these historical traces preserved as local living spaces conveys a sense of human resilience.

Artisanal Skills and Culture: At Shogetsudo, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop boasting over 110 years of history, delicate seasonal wagashi sweets are displayed and can be enjoyed on the spot. Meanwhile, at BRICK MALL SASEBO, renovated from a former brick warehouse, you can also feel the modern pulse of Sasebo.
 

2．Course to Enjoy the Diverse, Spectacular Views of Kujukushima Woven by Sea and Islands (Bicycle/Bus/Taxi)

This course lets you savor the multi-island beauty of Kujukushima, selected for the “World's Most Beautiful Bays in the World Club.” The view from the observation deck overlooking 208 islands offers breathtaking scenery that also inspired the opening scene of the movie ‘The Last Samurai’.

Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort: A marine experience hub where you can enjoy marine leisure activities, scenic cruises, an aquarium, shopping, and more—offering diverse ways to experience Kujukushima.

Awashima Shrine: Located on one of the Kujukushima islands, the entire island is a power spot as it enshrines three deities. It offers visitors a mystical experience.

Funakoshi Observation Deck: The lowest elevation viewpoint overlooking the Kujukushima Islands, offering an immersive vista of the islands looming before you.
 

1． History and Architecture Course (Taxi)

Explore the massive three radio towers of the Hario Radio Tower, standing approximately 136 meters tall. Built over 100 years ago using the most advanced technology of the time, their sheer scale stands as a testament to Japan's modernization. From the Saikai Bashi Bridge spanning the Harioseto, one of Japan's three major tidal currents, you can enjoy the thrilling experience of looking down at the powerful whirlpools below.


2．Sasebo All-out Fun Course (Taxi)

Why not stroll through Huis Ten Bosch, which recreates the beautiful streets of Netherlands? Surrounded by cobblestone paths, canals, and seasonal flowers, you can enjoy this special space where European and Japanese aesthetics blend.


3．Mikawachi, The Town of Pottery Course (Taxi)
Visit the home of delicate Mikawachi Ware, a porcelain with a 400-year tradition said to have been cherished by European royal courts. Stroll through the quiet streets lined with 14 kilns, each passing down techniques through a single heir. Spend captivating moments admiring the ultimate white porcelain crafted by master artisans and the intricate “Karako” (Chinese children) designs.

Your day in Sasebo will be a special experience deeply etched in your heart. The Sea Wind Country concierge will guide you with heartfelt sincerity to create your best memories.
Please experience for yourself the unique stories only this port town can tell.