I just visited Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki and I wish more people knew about this place

26F solo Asian female traveler here. I travel to Japan a lot, but this was my first time going to Huis Ten Bosch… and honestly, I don’t know why this place isn’t more popular internationally.

If you haven't heard of it, Huis Ten Bosch is essentially a massive recreation of a Dutch town. I don't mean a cheap theme park knock-off; the architecture is genuinely insane.

• Red-brick exteriors with ornate gables.

• Authentic stone bridges and massive canals winding through the park.

• Gothic-style churches and towers (inspired by the Dom Tower in Utrecht).

• Details are spot on: window shutters, flower boxes, cobblestone paths.

It feels surreal. One minute you're in Japan, and the next you're walking down a promenade that looks lifted straight out of Amsterdam. Some areas feel like a quaint village, others like a royal district with grand domes.

The Experience

I spent about 6 hours exploring and still didn't see everything bc the park is massive. The best part? It wasn't crowded. Unlike Kyoto or Tokyo right now, it felt peaceful. The crowd was mostly Japanese locals, so it was quiet and relaxing.

Atmosphere: It’s not a high-adrenaline theme park. It’s mostly about walking, taking photos of the incredible Dutch architecture, and enjoying the scenery.

Logistics (How I got there)

I stayed in Fukuoka and booked a package via Klook that included the ticket and a direct bus.

• Time: ~1.5 hours each way.

• Convenience: Super easy, no transfers needed.

• Solo factor: Very safe and manageable alone.

If you like photography, architecture, or just need a break from the crowds, I highly recommend adding this to your Kyushu itinerary!

by Excellent-Smile-2392