Nagasaki (prefecture) Travel Guide

Looking for a comprehensive Nagasaki travel guide? Look no more! This long-form article covers the top things to do, places to stay, must-try dishes, and more.


Nagasaki Prefecture Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Nagasaki Prefecture is a destination that should be on your list. Located in Kyushu, Nagasaki is a region steeped in history and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and adventure. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Nagasaki Prefecture has to offer, with recommendations for places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.

Introduction to Nagasaki (prefecture)

Nagasaki is a prefecture located on the western side of Kyushu Island in Japan. The region has a rich and diverse cultural history, with influences from both Western and Eastern cultures. Nagasaki was once a key port city for trade between Japan and other countries, which opened the city to overseas cultures and values, making it unique from other Japanese cities. Today, Nagasaki is a modern and vibrant city, with a rich history that is still visible throughout the region.

List of Places to Visit in Nagasaki (prefecture)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nagasaki is a city that bears the scars of its past, having been devastated by the atomic bomb in World War II. However, there is much more to Nagasaki than this tragic event. The city is also home to a variety of museums and historical sites that offer insight into the region’s rich cultural and religious history. Some of the must-visit museums and historical sites in Nagasaki are:

  • Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum: A museum located near the site of the atomic bomb blast that describes the events leading up to the bombing and its aftermath.
  • Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims: A museum dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb where you can also learn about the legacy of peace that Nagasaki has become known for.
  • Glover Garden: A collection of historical Western-style homes and gardens built in the late 19th century.
  • Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture: A museum showcasing the history of Nagasaki from ancient times to modernity.
  • Confucius Shrine: A tranquil temple dedicated to the most famous Chinese philosopher and scholar, Confucius.

Natural Attractions of Nagasaki (prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nagasaki is filled with natural beauty, including scenic mountains that are popular with hikers and stunning coastal views. Some of the best natural attractions of Nagasaki include:

  • Mount Inasa: A mountain with a fantastic panoramic view of Nagasaki city at night, it’s considered one of the best night views in Japan.
  • Mount Unzen: An active volcano that offers fantastic hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Gunkanjima (Hashima Island): An abandoned island that is known for its impressive industrial legacy and unique architecture.
  • Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium: A site where you can get up close and personal with a variety of penguins.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nagasaki (prefecture)

In Nagasaki, there are numerous trekking and cycling routes, so you can take in the beautiful scenery and the refreshing air of this beautiful countryside. A few of the best hiking and biking routes of Nagasaki include:

  • The Nagasaki Yamada cycling road: This 36 km route is one of the most breathtaking cycling routes in Japan passing through beautiful Japanese mountain scenery making it a must-run route.
  • The Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort: A bike trail near the beautiful Sea of Japan where you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean as well as various nature trails
  • Mount Inasa nature trail: A nature trail situated at the base of Mount Inasa provides a beautiful view of Nagasaki city during the day
  • Mount Unzen hiking trail: A hiking trail that goes along the beautiful Flower Nagasaki Garden

Best Things to Do in Nagasaki (prefecture): Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to enjoy in Nagasaki beyond visiting historical and natural highlights. From unique cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Nagasaki:

  • Take a night cruise around Nagasaki waterfront: Book yourself for an amazing evening cruise around Nagasaki Harbor, where you can experience beautiful views of the illuminated city and harbor accompanied by some nice music and drinks
  • Visit an Onsen (hot spring): There is a variety of hot springs around Nagasaki that are uniquely beautiful with sceneries ranging from mountainside hot tubs to ocean-views hot tubs where you can enjoy yourself and relax
  • Take a cooking lesson: Experience Nagasaki’s rich culinary culture by taking a cooking lesson where you can learn how to cook traditional Nagasaki cuisine like Champon and Sara Udon
  • Visit Nagasaki Lantern Festival: Experience and witness the beautiful festive lights during the Chinese New Year in Nagasaki, which began in the city as a means of welcoming a Chinese trade delegation.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nagasaki (prefecture)

To make the most of your trip to Nagasaki, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary that includes the best things to do and see in the region:

  • Day 1: Explore Nagasaki city and visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims
  • Day 2: Visit Mount Inasa and the Confucius Shrine and enjoy the beautiful night view of the city
  • Day 3: Visit Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort and enjoy the natural scenery and hiking trails in the area
  • Day 4: Explore the beautiful town of Shimabara and try the hot spring baths there.
  • Day 5: Visit Hashima Island and explore the abandoned coal mine town that was once the biggest town in the world.
  • Day 6: Visit Mount Unzen and enjoy hiking in the beautiful mountain scenery.
  • Day 7: Experience traditional Nagasaki cuisine and enjoy the beautiful Nagasaki Lantern Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Nagasaki (prefecture)

Must-Try Dishes

Nagasaki cuisine is rich in flavor and history, with influences from both Japanese and Western cultures. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Nagasaki:

  • Champon: A noodle dish that was created by Chinese students in Nagasaki, made up of seafood, meat, and vegetables in a thick, flavorful broth.
  • Sasebo Burger: One of the best burgers in Japan. It’s made with a juicy patty, tangy sauce, and a soft bun.
  • Castella: A sweet cake that was brought to Nagasaki by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.
  • Toruko Rice: Rice cooked with ketchup, a fusion dish inspired by Japanese consumers’ curiosity and love for the western food culture.

Local Beverages

The people of Nagasaki enjoy a variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Shochu: A distilled Japanese beverage that is made from rice, barley, or sweet potatoes, and is a favorite among Japanese people.
  • Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that is brewed locally in Nagasaki
  • The Legendary Nagasaki hiyashi lemonade: A fluffy, light beverage that is served ice-cold and is a refreshing drink on a warm day.

Where to Stay in Nagasaki (prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nagasaki has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Nagasaki:

  • Hotel Monterey Nagasaki: A luxurious hotel located near Nagasaki Station.
  • Casa Noda Nagasaki: A modern hostel located in the heart of Nagasaki, making it easy to explore the city attractions.
  • Smiling Hotel and Spa Nagasaki: A spa resort situated in Unzen National Park, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the scenic volcano mountains.

What to Buy in Nagasaki (prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are many souvenirs and local products to bring home from Nagasaki. Some of the most popular souvenirs include:

  • Castella Cake: A sponge cake that is a perfect souvenir to bring back to share with friends and family.
  • Hizen Yoshida Pottery: A traditional pottery style from Nagasaki where you can find beautiful Japanese-style dinnerware and ceramic pieces.
  • Tenshudo Christian Store: A store that sells unique books, trinkets, and souvenirs related to Nagasaki’s Christian history.

Local Culture and Customs of Nagasaki (prefecture)

Nagasaki has a unique culture, influenced by both Western and Eastern cultures. Its people are friendly and outgoing, and many of them are bilingual, making it easy to communicate with locals. A few customs and traditions you should be familiar with when visiting Nagasaki are:

  • Wearing shoes in the house is not customary in Japan, so be sure to take off your shoes when entering a home or restaurant.
  • Tipping is not expected in Japan, and may even be viewed as an insult.
  • Japan is a cash-based society, so it’s important to always carry cash with you.

Best Time to Visit Nagasaki (prefecture)

The best time to visit Nagasaki is from March to May or September to November when the temperatures are mild, and the humidity is low, making it comfortable for exploring the city and its surroundings. During this period, the trees and flowers are in bloom, making it a picturesque time of year to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nagasaki (prefecture)

Do:

  • Respect local customs and cultural values
  • Be polite and courteous to the locals
  • Learn a few Japanese phrases to communicate better

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes in the house or in traditional inns (Ryokan’s)
  • Talk loudly in public spaces and disturb other people
  • Leave your chopsticks sticking up in your food after using it (It’s considered taboo and may be related to Japanese funeral practices).

Safety and Health

Safety in Nagasaki (prefecture)

Nagasaki is one of the safest cities in Japan, and visitors can enjoy peace of mind during their stay. Nevertheless, take the usual precautions, such as locking your hotel room, carrying adequate cash and using ATMs within hotels or shopping malls, and taking care of your belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Nagasaki (prefecture)

Japan has a high standard of healthcare system, and Nagasaki is no exception. If you need medical attention during your stay, there are plenty of hospitals and clinics in the city, with many of them having English-speaking staff. However, it’s always good to have travel insurance before traveling to Japan to ensure that you have the best healthcare coverage for your visit.

Getting to Nagasaki (prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Nagasaki is easy, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Nagasaki (prefecture)

  • Nagasaki Airport: A small airport that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Fukuoka Airport: A larger airport located in Fukuoka city and which offers more international flights.
  • Kumamoto Airport: The third-largest airport in Kyushu with several domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Nagasaki (prefecture)

  • Nagasaki Bus Terminal: A central bus station where you can catch buses to places like Sasebo and Shimabara.
  • Isahaya Bus Terminal: A bus station located about 30 minutes from Nagasaki city.

Other Options

The most convenient and cost-effective way of traveling to Nagasaki is taking advantage of Japan’s excellent rail system. You can catch a train to Nagasaki from Hakata in Fukuoka, which is accessible via bullet train from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.

How to Get Around in Nagasaki (prefecture)

You can get around Nagasaki using various forms of transportation, including trains, buses, and taxis. Here are some of the best ways to get around Nagasaki:

  • Trams: Nagasaki has an extensive tram network that covers much of the city.
  • Buses: Buses are a convenient way to travel around the prefecture, and there are several bus tours available that take you to popular tourist destinations.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and are useful for traveling to remote areas or outside of normal public transportation routes.

Where to Go Next from Nagasaki (prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nagasaki is located in Kyushu, one of the most scenic regions of Japan. There’re many nearby destinations that you can easily travel to and continue your Japanese adventure. Some of the worthwhile places to visit from Nagasaki include:

  • Fukuoka City: A vibrant metropolitan city with a rich cultural history and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Kumamoto: A city with a deep samurai history that boasts Kumamoto Castle and scenic hot springs.
  • Kagoshima: A city located in the southernmost part of Kyushu that is home to the powerful Sakurajima volcano.

Conclusion

Nagasaki prefecture has so much to offer, from its rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery and landscapes, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Nagasaki. Happy travels!

Huis Ten Bosch in Sasebo Huis Ten Bosch in Sasebo


    Gotō Islands
    Iki
    Nagasaki
    Shimabara