Nagasaki Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Nagasaki, Japan.


Introduction to Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a vibrant city located on the island of Kyushu, in the Nagasaki Prefecture of Japan. The city has a rich and fascinating history and was, unfortunately, the target of an atomic bomb during World War II. Despite this tragedy, Nagasaki has rebuilt itself and has become a popular destination for travelers wishing to experience authentic Japanese culture.

List of Places to Visit in Nagasaki

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Nagasaki has something to offer for everyone. Here are some top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Atomic Bomb Museum: The museum is a powerful and moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the bombing of Nagasaki.
  • Nagasaki Peace Park: The park is a symbol of peace and features a memorial for the victims of the atomic bomb.
  • Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall: This impressive museum showcases the history of Nagasaki and the devastating impact of the atomic bomb.
  • Glover Garden: A unique colonial-style garden featuring beautifully preserved Western-style buildings, offers great views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Nagasaki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Inasa: provides panoramic views of Nagasaki and its surroundings.
  • Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium: A must-visit for animal lovers, featuring a wide range of penguin species.
  • Kazagashira Park: A beautiful park with cherry blossom trees, perfect for a picnic in the daytime.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nagasaki

Nagasaki’s natural surroundings offer great opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Some of the best routes include:

  • Mount Inasa: A popular spot for hikers and bikers, the route offers stunning views of Nagasaki.
  • Omura Bay Cycling Road: This scenic route stretches over 18km and offers breathtaking views of the bay and its surroundings.
  • Nakajima Island: A relatively new tourist spot with plenty of bike trails that take you through lush green forests and along pristine beaches.

Best Things to Do in Nagasaki: Activities and Tours

Nagasaki offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to experience. Here are some of the best:

  • Nagasaki Lantern Festival (February): A colorful and lively festival celebrating the Chinese New Year.
  • Nagasaki Kunchi Festival (October): A traditional festival featuring music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
  • Nagasaki Electric Tramway: One of the last electric tramways still operating in Japan, takes visitors on a journey through the city’s historic sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nagasaki

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your accommodation. Day 2: Spend a day exploring Nagasaki’s historical sites and museums. Day 3: Take a boat trip to Hashima Island, known as the ‘Battleship Island’ for its unique structure and history. Day 4: Visit the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, Glover Garden, and Mount Inasa. Day 5: Visit Nakashima Island and explore its hiking trails, cycling paths, and beaches. Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Shimabara Castle or Sasebo City. Day 7: Depart Nagasaki for your onward journey.

Food and Drink Scene of Nagasaki

Nagasaki’s location on the coast means that seafood is a staple in its cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Champon: A noodle dish with a variety of meat and seafood options.
  • Castella: A sponge cake made with eggs, sugar, and flour found in many bakeries in Nagasaki.
  • Toruko Rice: A dish prepared with Turkish spices and served with chicken and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Shochu: A distilled beverage made from sweet potatoes, barley, or other grains.
  • Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that pairs well with any meal.

Where to Stay in Nagasaki: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nagasaki has a range of accommodation options for those visiting the city. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Monterey Nagasaki: A luxurious hotel, located in the heart of the city.
  • Nagasaki Washington Hotel: A well-priced option located in the business district of the city.
  • J- Hoppers Hostel Nagasaki: A budget-friendly option, popular with backpackers.

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

  • Chanpon: This popular noodle dish can be found packaged in convenient souvenir packs.
  • Kasutera: Nagasaki’s famous sponge cake is available in many local bakeries.
  • Shippoku-ware: Traditional Japanese pottery and porcelain that can be found in numerous shops throughout Nagasaki.

Local Culture and Customs of Nagasaki

Respect for elders and tradition is a significant part of the local culture in Nagasaki. When walking in the city or visiting temples and shrines, visitors should remove their shoes and bow before making their entrance.

Best Time to Visit Nagasaki

The best time to visit Nagasaki is during the months of April to June and September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nagasaki

Do:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking long distances and climbing stairs at temples and shrines.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks, such as Champon and Shochu.
  • Always be respectful of local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect local traditions, culture, and religion.
  • Forget to buy travel insurance.
  • Disrespect public transportation rules or driving laws.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nagasaki

Nagasaki is generally a safe city to visit, with incidences of crime being relatively low. Visitors should keep an eye on their belongings, and be cautious when walking alone at night.

Health in Nagasaki

Visitors to Nagasaki should ensure they have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It’s also advisable to take precautions against mosquito bites, as cases of dengue fever have been reported in Nagasaki in recent years.

Getting to Nagasaki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nagasaki

  • Nagasaki Airport is located south of the city and is served by domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Nagasaki

  • Nagasaki Bus Terminal: Serves local and long-distance routes throughout Japan.

Other Options

  • Train: Japan Railways (JR) is a great way to travel between cities and other destinations in Japan.

How to Get Around in Nagasaki

Getting around in Nagasaki is easy, thanks to the city’s reliable public transportation system, which includes buses, trams and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Nagasaki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nagasaki is a great base for exploring the wider Kyushu island region, including locations such as:

  • Kumamoto: A castle town located east of Nagasaki, known for its shrine and garden.
  • Fukuoka: A bustling city located at the northern end of Kyushu known for great food and nightlife.

Conclusion

Nagasaki is a unique and exciting destination, offering visitors an insight into Japan’s fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, food or outdoor activities, Nagasaki has something for everyone. So why not add this vibrant city to your travel bucket list?

An overview of the Nagasaki waterfront. An overview of the Nagasaki waterfront. The Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen ''Kamome'' train The Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen ''Kamome'' train Streetcar Streetcar Statue at Peace Park Statue at Peace Park Gunkanjima(Battleship Island) Gunkanjima(Battleship Island) Nagasaki Lantern Festival Nagasaki Lantern Festival Nagasaki chanpon Nagasaki chanpon