Nagasaki milkshakes are not only a great dessert to beat the summer heat, but can also be enjoyed in any season. They continue to be loved by many people as one of the local B-class gourmet foods.

Let's explore the characteristics and history of milkshakes.

Milkshake Features

The commonly known "drinkable milkshake" is made with milk, eggs, sugar, etc., but Nagasaki milkshakes are characterized by the addition of ice to create a sorbet-like texture. They are loved by locals as "edible milkshakes" that are enjoyed with a spoon.

The richness of the milk is harmoniously combined with the sweetness of the egg yolk and condensed milk, and the addition of ice gives it a refreshing aftertaste. The cool, refreshing taste and refined sweetness spread throughout your mouth, and the crunchy texture and rich flavor are appealing.

Each shop also offers its own unique milkshakes, and gorgeous ones topped with fruits such as bananas and mangoes are popular. The rich sweetness and freshness of the fruit are perfectly matched, making this a dessert that is a feast for the eyes as well.

The History of Milkshakes

Milkshakes were invented in Nagasaki City from the end of the Taisho period to the beginning of the Showa period. The shop that is said to have originated them is Kyushu's oldest coffee shop, Tsuruchan, which was founded in 1925. It was named Tsuruchan because it was the first coffee shop (kitcha) to open in Nagasaki, known as the "port of the cranes." It is also known as the birthplace of Turkish rice.

At the time, refrigerators with freezers were not widely available, so milkshakes were invented as ice cream to beat the intense heat. A typical milkshake is made by adding eggs and sugar to milk, but Tsuruchan uses condensed milk instead of milk and is a unique treat that also contains lemon.

The "edible milkshake" quickly became popular and became a standard menu item at coffee shops in Nagasaki. Initially it was only available during the summer, but thanks to the support of tourists it gradually became available all year round.

Due to its simple preparation, it has become a popular dessert in households, and each coffee shop has its own variations using unique ingredients and ice crushing methods. Nagasaki Milkshake continues to spread its appeal as a long-loved taste in the local area.

Milkshakes as sweet treats

The "Nagasaki Milkshake Flavored Langue de Chat," which recreates the flavor of the original Nagasaki milkshake, is also attracting attention. The crispy and light langue de chat dough is sandwiched with white chocolate, giving it a gentle sweetness and nostalgic taste that is unique to milkshakes.

The company that manufactures and sells the product is Takara Bussan Co., Ltd., which is well-known for its product planning that utilizes local resources. The retro packaging that evokes the historical atmosphere of "Tsuruchan" is also attractive, and the attention to detail can be seen in the illustrations and fonts on the box. The individual packaging is also cutely finished, making it the perfect souvenir.

Nagasaki Milkshake Flavored Langue de Chat are a popular treat to hand out at schools or workplaces, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Nagasaki together with a retro atmosphere.

Tourist spots in Nagasaki Prefecture

There are many tourist spots in Nagasaki where you can enjoy milkshakes. This time, we will introduce three particularly popular spots.

Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum

The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum is a facility where you can think carefully about the tragedy of the atomic bomb and the importance of peace. It conveys the reality of the bombing through a variety of exhibits, including damaged houses and clothing, paintings depicting the devastation, and photographs taken immediately after the bombing. It also tells an easy-to-understand story about the events that led to the atomic bombing, the history of the development of nuclear weapons, and the progress of Nagasaki's recovery. It also sends out a message of seeking a world without nuclear weapons.

In the attached library, you can browse materials related to the atomic bomb and peace, providing an environment for further learning. After your tour, why not relax in the cafe inside the building and deepen your thoughts about peace?

Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium

Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is the world's largest aquarium for raising penguins. Of the 18 species of penguins that live on Earth, this rare aquarium specializes in penguins, raising about 170 birds of nine species. In the Sub-Antarctic Penguin Pool, one of the largest in Japan, you can enjoy watching penguins swimming as if they are flying in the sky. In addition, the adorable trotting of the little penguins, the smallest in the world, captivates visitors.

At "Penguin Beach," you can observe penguins swimming in the ocean up close, and there are also plenty of events where you can feed them and touch them. There is also an area that displays giant catfish and about 40 kinds of fish from the waters off Nagasaki, as well as a "Nature Experience Zone" where you can interact with nature, making it a place that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Huis Ten Bosch

Huis Ten Bosch, which recreates an authentic European townscape, is a charming tourist spot where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and various events. There are many popular events, such as the "One Million Tulip Festival," where the largest variety of tulips in Japan blooms, the "Rose Festival," where one of the largest roses in Asia decorates the town, and the "Flower Festival," where you can enjoy gorgeous parades and shows.

There are plenty of attractions, so everyone from children to adults can have fun all day long. In particular, the aerial stroll on the world's largest "Sky Merry-Go-Round" is very popular. At night, it is lit up and shows a beautiful appearance as the "Kingdom of Light." Another attraction is that you can enjoy gourmet food unique to Nagasaki, such as Sasebo burgers and Turkish rice.

How to get to Nagasaki Prefecture

Nagasaki Prefecture, which is attractive for its gourmet food and sightseeing, has a variety of ways to access the prefecture. It is also easily accessible from Japan's three largest cities: Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.

There are direct flights from Tokyo to Nagasaki Airport, which takes about two hours. Direct flights are also available from Osaka's Itami Airport and Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport, which take about one hour and a half. Nagasaki Airport is easily accessible from Nagasaki city, about 40 minutes by bus.

We also recommend taking a leisurely drive to Nagasaki Prefecture. Find the best way to get there.

summary

Nagasaki milkshakes have long been loved as "edible desserts," and their unique flavor has captivated many people. In recent years, langue de chat, the perfect souvenir, has also appeared and is becoming even more popular.

If you visit Nagasaki, be sure to try a milkshake.

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