Nagasaki Peron Championships

Japan’s original boat race, the Peron dates back to 360 years ago. When a boat docked at the Nagasaki Port was destroyed by a sudden storm, the local fishermen sought to quell the ocean god’s anger by racing with ships.

From there, it became a tradition to race every May. Nowadays, qualifying contests are held every summer, and the Nagasaki Peron Championships is held on the final Sunday of July. The contest uses a wooden ship that is 14m long. 30 athletes can board the boat, including rowers and those who make noise via taiko drums and bells. The course runs 1150m, and seeing every team go at once to win is a sight to behold.

From the tip of the port, or via a boat, visitors can see the match up close. During the contest, visitors can engage in trying out Peron and other festivities.