Melo Villareal
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Nagasaki, Japan
In the southwestern corner of Japan’s Kyushu Island, Nagasaki is an enchanting city full of stories, culture, and natural beauty. From leisurely sightseeing trips to unforgettable adventures, this Nagasaki travel guide blog will provide all the information and tips you need to make your visit to this captivating city memorable. Explore the bustling streets, discover the unique culture, and take in the stunning natural beauty of Nagasaki — it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Koufukuji Temple, Nagasaki City
“Overall, Visiting Nagasaki made me realize that you can always see the beauty in a tragedy. The city continues to charm its visitors with their UNESCO sites, the unique cuisine, the foreign influence on architecture, beautiful memorials, but most of all, its history. All I can say is that visiting here was certainly a memorable one.”
If I had to choose where I’d rather be at any time of year, it would be here in Japan. I’ve been to Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya, and other parts of Japan, but recently, I was lucky to wander around another city. I’m so excited to share my experience with all of you – Nagasaki.
It’s a port city on the island of Kyushu, the capital of Nagasaki Prefecture, and best known as the last city in the world to experience a nuclear attack.
Nagasaki, which means “long cape” in Japanese, is popular for its volcanoes, hot springs, museums, historic buildings, and monuments. Before the trip, per se, I’ve always thought of the city as a place where the atomic bombing happened, but it’s far more than that, as I discovered during our 2-day and 1-night stay.
In this Nagasaki Travel Guide Blog, we list tips for a DIY Day trip to Nagasaki, Japan. We also include a sample Nagasaki Itinerary, Nagasaki Attractions, how to get there, and more.
Best Time To Visit Nagasaki
The best time to visit Nagasaki largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Nagasaki, located in southwestern Japan, has a pleasant climate year-round, with distinct seasonal changes. Here are the different seasons and what they offer:
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Nagasaki is known for its mild temperatures, blooming cherry blossoms, and vibrant colors. This is a popular time for tourists, especially during late March to early April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The beautiful scenery draws visitors to parks and gardens for hanami (flower-viewing) parties.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Nagasaki can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). This season is ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. Gunkanjima, or Battleship Island, is a popular summer destination where you can explore the eerie abandoned buildings.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Nagasaki is characterized by pleasant temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and stunning autumn foliage. The maple leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating beautiful landscapes. The peace and tranquility of Nagasaki’s temples and shrines can be enjoyed during this season.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Nagasaki is mild and relatively dry compared to other parts of Japan. Temperatures range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), making it a comfortable season for exploring the city. Nagasaki’s famous winter illuminations, such as the Nabekanmuriyama Park Illuminations and Nagasaki City Christmas Festival, are must-see attractions during this time.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Nagasaki depends on your interests and the experiences you wish to have. Whether you want to witness the cherry blossoms in spring, enjoy the beaches in summer, admire the fall foliage, or experience the winter illuminations, Nagasaki offers something for every season.
How To Get There
From Manila
You can fly from Fukuoka to Manila via Cebu Pacific. Cebu Pacific offers daily flights between Manila and Fukuoka, Japan, with affordable fares starting at P3,288 per sector. Book Here: http://bit.ly/CEBxteamoutoftown
International Flights to Nagasaki
- From Shanghai – 1 hour and 35 minutes
- From Seoul – 1 hour and 25 minutes
Domestic Flights to Nagasaki
- Tokyo (Narita Airport) – 2 hours and 5 minutes
- Tokyo (Haneda Airport) – 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Nagoya – 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Osaka (Itami Airport, Kansai Airport, Kobe Airport) – 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Okinawa (Naha Airport) – 1 hour and 30 minutes)
How to get to Nagasaki from Fukuoka
One of the fastest ways to reach Nagasaki is by plane from Fukuoka. From there, you can take a train to Nagasaki or a bus that departs every hour. It takes 2.5 hours to travel from Fukuoka Airport to Nagasaki.
By JR Limited Express train
Limited express trains operate between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Nagasaki Station. The one-way trip takes two hours and costs 4,190 yen for an unreserved seat or around 4,500 yen for a reserved seat. Discounted sets of two tickets cost 6,180 yen. The trip is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and the Kyushu Rail Pass.
By JR local trains
This option is cheaper, but it takes 4-5 hours to reach either Hakata Station or Nagasaki Station. The train ticket costs 2,810 yen (one-way).
By highway bus
Nishitetsu highway buses operate every 15 minutes between Fukuoka (Hakata Station, Tenjin Bus Center) and Nagasaki Station. There are also hourly connections to/from Fukuoka Airport. The one-way journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs 2570 yen.
From Tokyo
If you’re coming from Tokyo, you can ride a train. Take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen going to Fukuoka’s Hakata Station. From there, transfer to the JR Kamome express train to Nagasaki.
Getting Around
Taking the bus makes traveling and getting around the city more convenient. Here, you can pay the fare when you get off, but first, you need a one-day pass for unlimited bus rides within the designated area in Nagasaki City. This pass also includes a streetcar pass, another form of public transportation in Nagasaki.
You can get your one-day pass at the Tourist Information Center on JR Nagasaki Station’s ground floor.
Top Nagasaki Tour Packages
Make your travel easy-breezy by booking an all-inclusive package for tourists that includes hotel accommodation, transportation, and an itinerary. Here are some of the recommended tour packages from KLOOK for your worry-free journey in Nagasaki.
Gunkanjima Island, Glover Garden, and Mt. Inasayama Day Tour in Nagasaki. Visit three iconic landmarks in one day through this tour. This includes visiting the abandoned Gunkanjima Island, taking in the scenic views and establishments at Glover Garden, and capping off the day with a million-dollar view of Nagasaki from Mt. Inasayama.
Dolphin Watching and Obama Onsen Hot Spring Experience in Nagasaki. Meet some adorable dolphins with the whole family when you book this tour via Klook, and then reward yourself with a relaxing hot spring dip at Obama Onsen.
Learn Some Local Lingo
Wouldn’t it be a great experience to learn a language or two? Here are some Japanese words and phrases you should use and know when you visit here:
- Moshi Moshi. “Hello” ( greeting on the phone)
- Onegai shimasu. Please.
- Konnichiwa. Hello / Good day.
- Sumimasen. Excuse me
- Ohayo Gozaimasu. Good morning.
- Hajimemashite. Nice to meet you (for the first time)
Where to Stay in Nagasaki
Experience the island and stay at some of its most highly recommended hotels. Check it out here:
Garden Terrace Nagasaki Hotel & Resort
Address: 2-3 Akizukimachi, Nagasaki 850-0064, Nagasaki Prefecture
This hotel is an excellent choice for easy access to the vibrant city. It overlooks Nagasaki Harbor and features rooms with a comfortable bed, a locker, a closet, complimentary tea, a humidifier, towels, and Wi-Fi.
Other facilities they take pride in include their garden, sauna, swimming pool, hot tub, and spa. There are also three restaurants available for guests to enjoy.
Hotel Forza Nagasaki
Address: 4-11 Hamamachi HAMACROSS411, Nagasaki 850-0853, Nagasaki Prefecture
Ranked the third most popular 3-star hotel on Trivago, the Forza Nagasaki offers pleasant accommodations, including a flat-screen TV, high-speed internet, a spacious room with a comfortable bed, and a bathroom with full toiletries.
It’s also a 3-minute stroll from the Shinbashi area and Chinatown. Not to mention, tram and bus stops are located right outside the arcade entrance.
Traveler’s House on the ROUTE
Address: 850-0051 Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Nishizakamachi 5-14, Japan
For less than $100, you and your group can experience staying in a comfortable and clean guest house cum hostel near the JR Nagasaki Station. This cabin-style dormitory is equipped with kitchenette facilities and a shower. Nearby attractions include Nagasaki Museum of History, 26 Martyrs Museum, and Fukusaiji Temple.
Best Places To Eat in Nagasaki
Beyond its historic sites, Nagasaki’s food is the destination. Did you know that the city is primarily influenced by Western and US influences? But the locals added an exciting element and flavor, making it their own. We’ve compiled a list of restaurants we deemed worthy of a visit. Read along!
Kyokaen Nagasaki
Address: 9-7 Shinchimachi, Nagasaki, 850-0842, Japan
This easy-to-find restaurant is famous for its Nagasaki Champon and Chinese Ramen. You can also try their fried rice and vegetable dish for a change; everything is reasonably priced! It’s definitely a great fusion of the Chinese and Japanese menus! Make sure to visit early, as it closes at 9PM.
Yossou
Address: 8-9 Hamamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0853, Japan
Open for business for almost 150 years, Yossou has welcomed patrons and served only the best chawanmushi, a steamed custard dish. The restaurant is known as Japan’s first chawanmushi specialty restaurant, where the dish is usually served in a teacup and eaten with a spoon.
The dish contains a variety of ingredients, including white fish, chicken, shiitake mushrooms, kikurage mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and ginkgo, flavored with kamaboko (fish paste) and wheat powder, and served with anago (grilled conger eel). You should also try their braised pork belly and shippoku, a “hybrid cuisine” that combines elements of European, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines.
Kagetsu
Address: 2-1 Maruyamacho, Nagasaki 850-0902, Nagasaki Prefecture
Another place to taste Shippoku is here at Kagetsu. A former geisha house, built in 1642, has been converted into a classy building with a garden and a small museum. Upon entering the premises, you will be greeted by servers wearing kimonos. As for the food, you must try the Ozoni, soba, shells, braised pork, whale, and their delectable desserts, all served with excellent plating.
Izumiya
Address: 8-25 Hamamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0853, Japan
Known for serving Unagi for 160 years, Izumiya has been a favorite restaurant in Nagasaki. They have stayed true to their traditional cooking and ambiance, with a small pond that features live unagi. You can ask for help from some locals to navigate the restaurant, as it’s in an alley.
Horaiken Bekkan
Address: 5-23 Hiranomachi, Nagasaki 852-8117, Nagasaki Prefecture
Indulge in a great mix of Japanese and Chinese cuisine with Champon, a ramen noodle dish invented at the Shikairo restaurant in Nagasaki. It’s easy to get here, as it’s near the Atomic Bomb Museum. The famous dish consists of pork, seafood, and vegetables, then simmered in a chicken-and-pig-bone broth.
Bunmeido Main
Address: 1-1 Edomachi, Nagasaki, 850-0861, Japan
A bite of Nagasaki’s specialty, Castella, is a MUST if you’re here! The main store is located on Edo-machi Street, near Ohato tram station.
Castella is a sponge cake made with sugar, flour, eggs, and starch syrup, and comes in chocolate, matcha, and honey varieties. You can buy Castella anywhere in Nagasaki, but some locals say the best is at Bunmeido, which has been serving It since 1900. If you were to bring home just one souvenir food item from Nagasaki, then this should be it.
Things to Do and See in Nagasaki
Aside from the picture-worthy fruity bus stops you can see in Konagai and the various old buildings that make Nagasaki an endearing city, here are some of our suggested things to do and see!
Visit Gunkanjima
If you’re in the Philippines, we have Corregidor Island; the beautiful city of Nagasaki is also known as Gunkanjima, or “Battleship Island,” because of its shape. It’s located 19km from Nagasaki Port and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2015. It’s a perfect destination if you’re into history and James Bond films, as it was the filming location for “Skyfall.”
Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture
Learn about Nagasaki’s rich past by dropping by this place. This large museum, which houses displays that focus on Nagasaki’s proud history of international exchange. A section of the Edo-period Nagasaki Magistrate’s Office shows off what happened in the controlled trade and diplomacy.
Glover Garden
See the oldest surviving Western-style house in the country here at the Glover Garden. It’s located on a hill overlooking Nagasaki Harbor. It’s an open-air museum and the former home of Thomas Blake Glover, a Scottish merchant who played a significant role in Japan’s industrialization.
But beyond savoring the view, you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake at the Glover Garden Tea House. It’s refreshing to see how Japanese and Western elements combined to create a masterpiece like this.
Visit Mount Inasa at Night
If you want a different perspective on Nagasaki at night, we suggest climbing Mount Inasa, a 333-meter-high mountain near Nagasaki’s city center. Oh, did I mention it’s on the list of Japan’s top three night views? You can choose whether to take a cable car or a bus to visit. However, you can also take a car ride from Nagasaki Station, which would only take 15 15-minute.
Oura Cathedral
Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018, this hilltop church, also known as the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan, was built in 1864 and is packed with stories you should discover once you’re here. According to historical records, this church was where 26 Christians were martyred in 1597, hence the church’s name. It has been renovated to house a museum displaying items related to the history of Christianity in Japan.
Nagasaki Peace Park
Comprising two parks and a memorial museum, the Nagasaki Peace Park stands as a symbol of hope and peace, inaugurated in April 1955. Every 9th of August, a memorial service takes place at the foot of the statue in memory of the victims of the tragic war. There are also well-wishers from across the country and around the world who send folded origami cranes to Hiroshima and Nagasaki as prayers for peace.
If you’re coming from Nagasaki Station, ride the blue Nagasaki Denki tram across the street and alight at the Matsuyamamachi stop. From there, it will take just a few minutes to walk to the park.
Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
One of the popular attractions in Nagasaki is the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, which is also home to the world’s oldest living penguin. This is where 9 of the 18 penguin species are housed, and visitors can watch them swim in enormous, glass-walled habitats. In fact, you can interact with the penguins and feed them.
Dejima
Many historical remains can be found at Dejima. What was once a trading post is now surrounded by various residences and warehouses, evoking an Edo-period vibe.
Also read: Best Things to do in Nagasaki, Japan
Best Places to Shop in Nagasaki
Don Quijote
Shoppers frequent Don Quijote for its affordable goods; the company has over 160 branches across Japan, four of which are in Nagasaki. They house mini department stores offering products ranging from groceries, electronics, beauty items, clothing, and household goods.
The AMU Plaza Nagasaki
If you’re up for some souvenir shopping, AMU Plaza has you covered. It’s a shopping complex located next to the JR Station and offers shoppers a variety of options, including gadgets, clothing, household goods, and more.
Hamanomachi Arcade
This place is also known as a shopping haven in Nagasaki. Aside from the wide variety of shops, the Hamanomachi Arcade also has cafés and restaurants above and below the alleys, just in case you tire from shopping. Definitely, the perfect place if you’re in the hunt for some gifts and souvenirs.
Nagasaki City Itinerary
Day 1
- Visit Gunkanjima
- Oura Cathedral
- Glover Garden
- Shinichi Chinatown Shiambashi
Day 2
- Visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and the Peace Park
- Visit the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture
- Visit Temple Street and Meganebashi Bridge
- Explore Dejima
Being here in Nagasaki made me realize that you can always see beauty in a tragedy. The city continues to charm visitors with its UNESCO sites, distinctive cuisine, foreign architectural influences, beautiful memorials, and rich history. All I can say is that visiting here was certainly memorable.
Explore the captivating city of Nagasaki, where its tragic history meets vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. Take a journey through time as you explore its historical sites, or indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this unique city. Plan your visit to Nagasaki today and discover all it has to offer.
Searching for the best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of cheap hotels and resorts on Agoda, or browse available Airbnb properties in the city.
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Disclosure: This Familiarization trip to Fukuoka, Saga, and Nagasaki was made possible by Cebu Pacific and Strategic Works, Inc.
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