A Leisurely Stroll Down Stone-Paved Slopes Lined with Mansions from the Settlement Era
About this spot
A stone-paved slope continuing up the Higashiyamate hill, representing the iconic hillside scenery of Nagasaki. According to tradition, after the opening of Japan and the establishment of a foreign settlement in this area, local residents called Western people "Oranda-san" (Dutchmen), and thus the slope where they walked became known as Oranda-zaka. Western-style residences such as Higashiyamate Western-Style Housing Cluster and Higashiyamate Building No. 12 line the slope, with greenery beyond the fences and stone pavement creating streetscapes beautiful from any angle. The slope continuing up to Kwassui Women's University is particularly famous among photographers. The evening hours, when slanting light illuminates the stone pavement, reveal the lingering atmosphere of the settlement era most vividly.
Tips
Stone pavement becomes slippery in rain or right after rain, so watch your footing carefully. Some mansions along the slope allow interior viewing—take time to look inside if you have time. This is also a residential neighborhood, so photograph quietly. Evening is the best time for photography, when western sunlight makes the stone pavement gleam.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. The most picturesque time is in the evening when angled light illuminates the stone pavement
Access & map
Nagasaki, Nagasaki City, Oranda-zaka
Model course featuring this spot
Nagasaki: Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden—a Hillside Stroll Through an Exotic Atmosphere
Nagasaki
Explore features & model courses
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