Nagasaki - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Nagasaki

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nagasaki, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nagasaki and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nagasaki, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Nagasaki for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a city located in the southwestern part of Japan's Kyushu Island. It is the capital city of Nagasaki Prefecture and has a population of around 430,000 people. Nagasaki is known for its rich and diverse history, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant local culture. The city is often associated with the tragic atomic bombing that took place during World War II, and there are several museums and memorials dedicated to this event throughout the city. In addition, Nagasaki is also famous for its unique cuisine, including regional specialties such as champon noodles and castella cake. Overall, Nagasaki is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of Japanese history, culture, and natural beauty.

What to visit in Nagasaki

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Nagasaki, Japan and some brief information about each: 1. Nagasaki Peace Park: This park commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. It includes a large statue representing a praying man and a fountain of peace.
2. Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum: This museum displays artifacts and information about the atomic bombing of Nagasaki and its aftermath. It's a moving and informative experience that provides insight into the devastating effects of nuclear weapons.
3. Glover Garden: This is a beautiful park with Western-style houses built in the late 1800s. These houses were built by foreign merchants and played an important role in Japan's modernization.
4. Oura Catholic Church: This is a beautiful Catholic church built in the 19th century. It's considered to be Japan's oldest church and is a impressive example of Western-style architecture.
5. Mt. Inasa: This is a peak overlooking Nagasaki that offers spectacular views of the city. A popular spot to visit during sunset, it's accessible via cable car or car.
6. Dejima: This is a small island that was once a Dutch trading post during Japan's isolationist period. It has been restored to resemble the original settlement and provides insight into Japan's relationship with Western countries during that time.
7. Spectacle Bridge: This is a famous arched stone bridge across the Nakashima River. It was built in 1634 and is one of the oldest bridges in the city.
8. Nagasaki Chinatown: This is home to Nagasaki's Chinese community and is a bustling area filled with shops and restaurants. It's a great place to sample some Chinese cuisine and learn about the history of Chinese immigration to Nagasaki.
These are just a few of the many attractions in Nagasaki, but they offer a good mix of historical, cultural, and natural sights to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nagasaki.

When to go on holiday to Nagasaki

The best time to visit Nagasaki is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the cherry blossoms in the spring and the autumn foliage are beautiful to see. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot and humid, and the winter months (December to February) can be cold and rainy. However, if you plan to visit Nagasaki during the winter, you can attend the famous Nagasaki Lantern Festival, held from mid-January to mid-February, which is a unique and colorful event.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nagasaki

There are several ways to get to Nagasaki, Japan: 1. By Plane: Nagasaki Airport is the nearest airport to the city and is served by several domestic airlines such as Japan Airlines, ANA, and Peach Aviation, as well as some international airlines. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to get to the city center.
2. By Train: Nagasaki is also connected to major cities in Japan by train. You can take the JR Kyushu Shinkansen from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Nagasaki Station. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and the trains run several times a day.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities in Japan to Nagasaki. You can take a highway bus from Tokyo, Osaka, or Fukuoka to Nagasaki. The journey takes around 13-14 hours from Tokyo and Osaka, and around 5 hours from Fukuoka.
4. By Car: Nagasaki is connected to major cities in Japan by highways. From Fukuoka, you can take the Nagasaki Expressway or the Kyushu Expressway to get to the city. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Nagasaki!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nagasaki, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nagasaki

Here are some typical foods of Nagasaki, Japan with a short description for each: 1. Champon: A popular noodle dish that originated from Nagasaki, champon consists of thick chewy noodles in a savory soup with seafood and vegetables.
2. Castella: A cake made from flour, eggs, sugar, and sometimes honey. Castella has a sponge-like texture and is often served with tea.
3. Sara Udon: A Chinese-influenced dish that consists of crispy noodles topped with stir-fried vegetables and seafood or meat.
4. Kakuni: A popular pork dish in Nagasaki, kakuni is made by slow-cooking pork belly in a soy sauce and mirin-based sauce until tender.
5. Shippoku: A traditional multi-course meal that features a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes served together on a platter.
6. Umegae Mochi: A Wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) made from rice flour and stuffed with sweet bean paste.
7. Isukari Korokke: A type of croquette that is filled with crab meat and seasoned with ginger and onion.
8. Karasumi: A type of cured mullet roe that is often served thinly sliced as a delicacy. These are just a few examples of the diverse and delicious cuisine you can find in Nagasaki, Japan!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Nagasaki an expensive destination for tourists?

Nagasaki can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists, but it is definitely not as expensive as Tokyo or Osaka. The cost of an average meal in a mid-range restaurant would be around 1,000-2,000 yen ($9-$18 USD), while a budget hotel room would cost around 5,000-8,000 yen ($45-$73 USD) per night. However, if you choose to stay in a more luxurious hotel or eat at a high-end restaurant, you could expect to pay more. Overall, the cost of visiting Nagasaki can vary depending on your personal preferences and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Nagasaki

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Nagasaki are: 1. Nagasaki Station Area: This area is ideal for those who want to travel around Nagasaki easily. It has multiple transportation options, and you can find a variety of restaurants, shopping centers, and hotels.
2. Dejima Area: This area is great for those who want to experience history and culture. Dejima is a historic district dating back to the Edo period, and you can find numerous landmarks such as the Dejima Museum and the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum.
3. Huis Ten Bosch Area: This area is slightly further away from Nagasaki city and is perfect for those who want to visit the Huis Ten Bosch theme park. It offers numerous hotels, restaurants, and entertainment activities.
4. Nagasaki City Center: This area is perfect for those who want to explore the city's cultural and historic heritage. You can find numerous temples, shrines, and historic landmarks such as the Nagasaki Peace Park and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.
You can check hotel prices at Nagasaki here:
Booking.com

Is Nagasaki a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nagasaki is generally a safe place for tourists. Japan has a low crime rate and Nagasaki is no exception. However, as with any destination, it's important to exercise basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended. It's also important to note that Japan is known for its strict laws and cultural norms, so it's always best to research and adhere to local customs and regulations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nagasaki.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nagasaki the most?

Nagasaki is a city that appeals to a wide variety of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Here are a few reasons why: - History and Culture: Nagasaki is known for its rich history and culture. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Nagasaki Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum, and the Glover Garden, which is home to Western-style homes from the 19th century.
- Food: Nagasaki is a foodie's paradise, with its famous dishes like Champon noodles, Castella cake, and Sasebo Burger. Visitors can also explore the famous Fish Market and try out the freshest seafood.
- Nature: Nagasaki is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Mount Inasa, which offers sweeping views of the city, and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, where visitors can watch adorable penguins.
Overall, Nagasaki has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for couples, young people, and families alike.

How to get around Nagasaki

There are several options for transportation to move around Nagasaki, Japan. The most popular means of transportation are buses, trams, and taxis. Buses are operated by Nagasaki Bus, and they cover most areas of Nagasaki. Trams are another popular option, especially for tourists, as they connect the city's major tourist attractions. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive compared to other options. Additionally, there are rental cars and bicycles available for those who prefer to travel independently.

What to see around Nagasaki

Here are some great places in Japan that you could visit on a day trip from Nagasaki: 1. Shimabara Castle: This historic castle located in Shimabara city is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Mount Unzen: A famous mountain located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Mount Unzen is known for its hot springs, hiking trails and stunning landscapes.
3. Huis Ten Bosch: This Dutch-themed park located in Sasebo city is a popular attraction for families. It features over 400,000 tulips, a windmill, a canal boat ride, and other Dutch-themed activities.
4. Gunkanjima Island: This uninhabited island located off the coast of Nagasaki is also known as Battleship Island. It was once a thriving coal mining town, and is now a popular tourist destination.
5. Sasebo City: This port city located in Nagasaki is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks like Kujukushima Islands, Haiki Pearl Sea Resort, and other attractions.
6. Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum: Located in Nagasaki city, this museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the city's atomic bombing during World War II. It's a somber but important place to visit to learn about the past.
7. Nagasaki Peace Park: A park in Nagasaki city dedicated to promoting world peace and remembering the victims of the atomic bomb. It's a serene and reflective place to visit.
I hope this list helps you plan your day trips from Nagasaki!
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