During the Tokugawa shogunate’s reign, Japan closed itself off from the world for 230 years. The Ansei era marked the end of this isolation and heralded the dawn of modern Japan. Set apart for their natural harbors, the five port cities of Hakodate, Niigata, Yokohama, Kobe and Nagasaki developed into exotic gateways to the civilization and culture of other countries. In turn, they shaped Japan’s history and culture significantly as sites of unrest among and change.

More than 130 years later, as wonderful testaments of the past, the five cities have contributed to global goodwill considerably as international tourist destinations where domestic and international tourists can come together for cultural exchange.

The current tourism trend within Japan is that people are reevaluating the importance of nature and cultural heritage, and regardless of domestic or overseas travel, they tend to select destinations that have a powerful emotional resonance for them.

The five port cities have, bound by common destiny through a colorful twist of fate, flourished and enjoy beautiful ports interwoven with history. Based on this strong sense of cohesion, the Tourism Council of Japan’s Five Open Port Cities was established in recognition of the cities’ awareness of their responsibilities as Japan’s foremost tourist destinations. We aim to develop tourism on a sound footing by interacting and exchanging information within the Tourism Council. We will continue to play the leading role in Japan’s tourism scene by proudly promoting the history of the ports opening up to the world. Anticipate more updates soon!

Please provide feedback to the Tourism Council of Japan's Five Open Port Cities. (nvcb@nvcb.or.jp )