Saga's Autumn Agenda: Heritage, Ecology, and Tourism
Saga Prefecture Announces Cultural Revitalization, Environmental Initiatives, and Seasonal Events
Fukuoka Prefecture Launches Gender Equality Initiatives and Inclusive Park Equipment
8/20/25
Nagasaki Prefecture Unveils Cultural Festival, Expo 2025 Exhibit, and Regional Branding Survey
On August 20, Nagasaki Prefecture held a press conference to announce three major initiatives: the upcoming prefectural cultural festival, its participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, and a public survey regarding branding for local specialties. During the Q&A session, the governor also shared his views on peace and responded to questions about the delayed construction of the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen.
Cultural Festival to Launch September 14 Across Nagasaki
The Nagasaki Prefectural Cultural Festival will begin on September 14, with approximately 140 events scheduled throughout the region. The festival aims to showcase Nagasaki's rich history, culture, nature, cuisine, and more. The prefecture anticipates around 1.9 million visitors, and previous editions of the festival have generated an average economic impact of ¥15.4 billion. The Emperor and Empress are expected to attend the event.
Expo 2025 Osaka: “Treasure Island KYUSHU” Exhibit
At Expo 2025 Osaka, Nagasaki will join six other Kyushu prefectures in a joint exhibition under the theme “Treasure Island・KYUSHU.” The booth will highlight regional attractions, including the display “GUNKANJIMA ARCHIVE”, which recreates the historic Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) as a playable battlefield in Fortnite, the popular game. This digital archive connects gaming with cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique way to engage with Nagasaki's history.
Branding Survey for Nagasaki's Local Specialties
Nagasaki Prefecture has launched a public survey to select a new logo and message for promoting its local specialties. The initiative aims to help residents recognize the value of their hometown, cultivate regional charms, and share Nagasaki's appeal globally. Two design proposals have been presented, and the survey—open until August 26—will determine which concept will be adopted for widespread use, including packaging and promotional materials.
Governor's Remarks on Peace and Nuclear Disarmament
During the Q&A session, the governor expressed his commitment to peace, stating that global dialogue is essential for achieving a world without nuclear weapons. As the final city to suffer an atomic bombing, the governor said that he would collaborate with Hiroshima Prefecture so as to set the peace world without the weapon as one of the new SDGs. As a result, he hopes that it encourage individuals worldwide to treat nuclear disarmament as a personal concern.
Ongoing Debate Over Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen Construction
The governor also addressed repeated questions regarding the stalled construction of the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen—a high-speed rail line intended to connect Fukuoka and Nagasaki via Saga Prefecture. Key points from his remarks include:
- The segment between Shin-Tosu Station and Takeo-Onsen Station should be completed.
- Of the three proposed routes, Nagasaki supports the one passing through Saga Station.
- The national government should clarify why it abandoned the original plan to use gauge-convertible trains, which had previously received agreement from stakeholders including Saga Prefecture.
- A new proposal must be presented—one that Saga Prefecture can accept as a primary stakeholder.
- The government should reassess construction costs and conduct an early evaluation to provide data for further discussion.
Background: Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen Project
Originally, the national government planned to build the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen using gauge-convertible trains, which would allow seamless integration with existing tracks. This plan had received support from relevant parties, including Saga Prefecture. However, the government later shifted to a full Shinkansen standard, prompting Saga Prefecture to withdraw its support. Concerns include reduced service for local trains, which are vital to Saga residents. In Japan, Shinkansen construction requires agreement from local governments. As a result, while the segment from Nagasaki Station to Takeo-Onsen has been completed, construction between Shin-Tosu and Takeo-Onsen has yet to begin.
Saga Prefecture has proposed two alternative routes:
The one via the northern city and another via the airport. Nagasaki Prefecture, however, maintains that the route through Saga Station remains the most viable option.