Hirado Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the Nagasaki region of Japan, the city of Hirado offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captures the essence of this fascinating country. With its rich heritage and stunning landscapes, Hirado is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

One of the highlights of Hirado is its historical significance. The city was once the seat of power for the Hirado Domain, a feudal domain during the Edo period. Visitors can explore the remnants of this era by visiting the Hirado Castle, which stands proudly atop a hill overlooking the city. The castle's impressive stone walls and majestic architecture provide a glimpse into the past, offering a sense of the area's feudal glory.

For those interested in religious heritage, Hirado is home to several important temples and shrines. The Kōzō-ji Temple, founded in the 8th century, is renowned for its tranquil gardens and beautiful Buddhist statues. The nearby Hirado Shrine, dedicated to the gods of the sea, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to pay their respects and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Nature lovers will also find solace in Hirado. The city is blessed with picturesque coastlines, pristine beaches, and lush greenery. The Hirado Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, is a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months. Additionally, the Fukue Island, located just off the coast of Hirado, offers breathtaking hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the surrounding ocean.

No visit to Hirado would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The city is known for its fresh seafood, particularly the delectable sashimi made from locally caught fish. Visitors can savor the flavors of the sea at the numerous seafood restaurants scattered throughout the city, offering a truly authentic culinary experience.

Local name: 平戸市 Population: 29.6 thous. (2019)Area: 90.78 mi²Elevation: 118 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 33°22'7"N, 129°33'25"E

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NagasakiJapan

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Hirado Top Attractions

Hirado Attractions - What to See and Explore

Hirado offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Hirado Castle, Matsura Historical Museum, Hirado Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Forts and castles • Historical place
Hirado Castle
Hirado Castle was the seat of the Matsura clan, the daimyō of Hirado Domain, of Hizen Province, Kyūshū. It is located in present-day Hirado city Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It was also known as Kameoka Castle.
Museum
Matsura Historical Museum
Matsura Historical Museum opened in Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, in 1955. The museum is housed in the 1893 Tsurugamine Mansion of the Matsura family, former daimyō of the Hirado Domain.
Bridge
Hirado Bridge
The Hirado Bridge is a suspension bridge in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It connects the islands of Hirado and Kitamatsuura Peninsula. Completed in 1977, it has a main span of 465.5 meters and total length of 665 m. From April 1, 2010, no fee is required to pass the bridge.

Day trips

Hirado – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Hirado, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Prefectural Art Museum (Nagasaki), Nagasaki Peace Park (Nagasaki), Glover Garden (Nagasaki).

47 milesSE
Museum, Art museum
Prefectural Art Museum, Nagasaki
The Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum, a beacon of culture nestled in the historic city of Nagasaki, Japan, is an institution dedicated to the arts and a hub for creative expression. This contemporary museum, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, is situated near...
45 milesSE
Commemorative park honoring bomb victims
Nagasaki Peace Park, Nagasaki
Nagasaki Peace Park, nestled in the historically rich city of Nagasaki, Japan, stands as a profound symbol of peace and a poignant reminder of the tragic consequences of war. The park was established to commemorate the devastating atomic bombing on August 9, 1945...
47 milesSE
Museum, Garden, Historical place
Glover Garden, Nagasaki
Nestled on the picturesque hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, Glover Garden stands as a serene testament to the city's rich international heritage. This open-air museum, dedicated to the memory of Scottish merchant Thomas Blake Glover, offers visitors a glimpse into...
45 milesSE
Exhibits about the 1945 nuclear attack
Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Nagasaki
The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum stands as a poignant reminder of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear warfare, located in the city of Nagasaki, Japan. This somber museum is dedicated to the second atomic bomb that was dropped on August 9, 1945, which devastated the...
47 milesSE
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Dejima, Nagasaki
Nestled in the vibrant city of Nagasaki, Dejima stands as a unique testament to Japan's period of seclusion and its selective engagement with the outside world. This fan-shaped artificial island, now a compelling museum, was originally constructed in 1636 as a single...

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Best Time To Visit Hirado

Learn when is the best time to travel to Hirado weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in April.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July, August and September. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in December. Most of it rains in June and July.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Hirado?

The top attractions to visit in Hirado are:

What is the best time to visit Hirado?

May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in April. The highest air temperature is in July, August and September. While the coldest is in January and February.