Sasebo City: A Summer Road Trip Guide for Festivals, Scenic Wonders, and Delectable Delights

Nestled in the northern part of Nagasaki Prefecture, Sasebo City offers a scenic escape surrounded by lush nature. Delight in the hidden gem of Emukae-cho, a captivating driving spot located north of the city center. Experience the essence of summer in Sasebo as you immerse yourself in traditional festivals, capture picturesque shots at shrines overlooking the stunning Kujukushima Islands’ sea, and savor the delectable delights of seasonal sweets.

Embrace the Magic of Emukae Sentoro (Lantern) Festival, Lantern Towers and Fireworks Illuminate the Night Sky

Experience the captivating charm of Emukae, a town nestled in the northern part of Sasebo City, steeped in the rich heritage of its inn town past. For over 500 years, the Emukae Sentoro (Lanterns) Festival has graced this town with its traditional splendor. To witness this enchanting event, take a scenic drive to the outskirts of Sasebo City. As dusk descends, prepare to be mesmerized by the magical ambiance created by approximately 10,000 lanterns adorning the town. The main venue, Emukae Central Park, is a sight to behold, showcasing a pyramid-like arrangement of 3,500 lanterns towering 25 meters high—the tallest lantern tower in Japan. Bathed in radiant red light, it promises an unforgettable spectacle! Step closer to bask in the glow of this magnificent lantern tower and immerse yourself in its timeless allure. At approximately 9:00 p.m., the night sky will come alive with around 2,000 fireworks, harmoniously blending with the brilliance of the lantern tower—an awe-inspiring collaboration not to be missed.

Date	August 23 (Wednesday) and 24 (Thursday)
Address	320 Nagasaka, Emukae-cho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Access	• A 30-minute drive from Sasebo Washington Hotel • A 5-minute walk from Sasebo Washington Hotel to Sasebo Station, then 1 hour and 20 minutes train ride on MR to Emukae-Shikamachi Station, and a 5-minute walk from there
URL	https://www.facebook.com/sentourou/?locale=ja_JP

Sacred Treasures, Awashima Shrine on Kujukushima Islands, Home to a Deity Protecting Women and a Dragon God

Experience the serene charm of Awashima Shrine before or after your visit to Emukae-cho. Nestled on one of the Kujukushima Islands, this spiritual sanctuary is dedicated to a deity safeguarding women. During summer, the vivid blues of the sea and the Torii gate shine in striking vermilion, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Despite its allure, Awashima Shrine remains a hidden gem, yet to be widely explored by tourists. Within the sacred grounds, a torii gate awaits, spacious enough for adults to pass through. According to legend, passing through the gate three times in the same direction grants your wishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through this gate, known for its particular efficacy in prayers for easy childbirth and healing of women’s ailments. As you explore the diverging path toward the shrine, you’ll come across a small shrine (Hokora) dedicated to the revered Dragon God. Wearing sneakers is advisable due to the lush vegetation underfoot. As you visit the shrine, the refreshing sea breeze will revitalize your senses, leaving you feeling light-hearted.

Address	168 Funakoshi-cho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Access	• A 15-minute drive from Sasebo Washington Hotel • A 5-minute walk from Sasebo Washington Hotel to Sasebo Station, then a 50-minute bus ride to the location
URL	https://www.instagram.com/awashimajinja_sasebo/

Refreshing Sweets Await―Experience the Timeless Charm of Coffee Specialty Shop Kunimatsu

After exploring festivals and power spots, treat yourself to the delightful summer gourmet at Coffee Specialty Shop Kunimatsu. This well-established café, with over 50 years of history, is tucked away in a charming alley off Sasebo Yonkacho shopping street, exuding a timeless retro ambiance. You can savor freshly brewed coffee and Nagasaki’s famous milkshakes. However, the real highlight is the seasonal specialty: coffee jelly, exclusively available during the summer. This unique treat is carefully crafted by solidifying their brewed coffee, creating a refreshing sweet exclusive to coffee shops. The jelly’s soft and smooth texture brings a cooling sensation even on the hottest days. Due to its popularity, you should visit earlier as quantities are limited. Don’t miss this delightful summer delicacy.

Hours	(Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday) 10:00AM – 9:00PM (Friday, Saturday) 10:00AM – 10:00PM, Closed on Tuesdays
Address	4-16 Kamigyo-machi, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Access	A 13-minute walk from Sasebo Washington Hotel
URL	https://www.instagram.com/coffee.hiro/?hl=ja