Nagasaki Peiron Championship

The Nagasaki Peiron Championship (長崎ペーロン選手権大会) originated in 1655, introduced by Nagasaki’s Chinese community to appease sea deities following a tragic storm. Today, teams maneuver 14-meter dragon boats, each holding 30 rowers, a helmsman, and a drummer. Racing 1,150 meters across the harbor to the synchronized rhythm of gongs, the event celebrates the city’s unique cultural fusion. Festivities culminate each evening with lively music, traditional dancing, and a vibrant fireworks display at 8:30 PM.

Races start at 10:00 AM daily, with the first day’s events concluding around 3:00 PM and the final day’s races ending by 1:00 PM. The event is a living legacy of the Chinese merchants who resided in the Tojin Yashiki during the Edo period. Nagasaki is accessible via the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen from Takeo-Onsen or the Limited Express Relay Kamome from Hakata. The racing venue is located at the Nagasaki Matsugae International Terminal, which is reached via the Nagasaki Electric Tramway to the Oura Tenshudo or Shikokubashi stops.