Geography

Nagasaki, with the exception of Okinawa, is the westernmost prefecture of the nation. Not only is the prefecture itself a peninsula, but it is also has numerous peninsulas such as Shimabara, Nagasaki, Nishi Sonogi, Kita Matsuura, and Higashi Matsuura. The rest of Nagasaki faces the East China Sea and the Tsushima Strait, both of which are dotted with many small islands. The two volcanic ranges of Mt. Tara and Mt. Unzen recently have shown volcanic activity. Other than these there are no mountain ranges of note, nor are there any significant plains. The Tsushima warm current brings warm weather and heavy rain.

Industry & Economy

Agriculture and fisheries are considered the leading industries of the Nagasaki prefecture. Agriculture is actually limited due to the complexity of the land formations. Paddy fields are sparse, and cultivated farm land is just enough to supply domestic demand. The only high-yielding products are white potatoes (second in the nation) and sweet potatoes. Rich fishing banks and excellent seaports bring in thriving business, making it the nation's second largest haul. Laurel and mackerel are especially famous. The coal mines on the Matsuura Peninsula dominated the coal industry along with Hokkaido and Kita Kyushu. Now that coal is less in demand, the area is in a fast decline. The core of the manufacturing industry is ship building and electronics. There is a handful of large companies, but most are small family businesses.

Cultural Background

Geographically Nagasaki is the closest prefecture to Korea and China. During the Edo era of isolation, it became the only port open to certain international ships. Many of the influences from China, Portugal, and the Netherlands can be seen throughout the prefecture. The people here say that they are not eager to meet strangers, perhaps an indication of how conservative and traditional the prefecture is.

Religious Milieu

Catholic priests first landed at Kagoshima and the work spread northward to Hirado in Nagasaki. This prefecture produced early Kirishitan, many of whom died as martyrs during the oppression. Many feel that the famous Battle of Amakusa was not as much a religious fight as it was a riot by the people who were suffering from heavy oppression. However, because of the high profile of the Christians, one major result of the battle was their strong persecution. When the country opened during the Meiji era, many hidden Kirishitan were identified and churches were reestablished. While the number of Catholics is highest in the nation, Protestants are relatively few. Nagasaki has Kyushu' s highest percentage of Buddhists.

The Mission

The example of how the Kirishitan survived over 300 years of oppression, maintaining a secret faith, is an amazing story. Also, the example of believers who endured the atomic bomb, committing themselves to God, and then mobilizing to promote world peace, is a testimony to the truth of God's Word. That Bible-based faith is still needed for each church in the prefecture.