If you are new to Nagasaki, you may be wondering how to learn the Nagasaki Tram Line. People call it “Nagasaki Electric Tramway.”
Whether you believe it or not, after reading my post, you will understand easily. It will only take 3 minutes to read my post.
You heard well.
Yes, Nagasaki’s trams are easy to use. These lines are not as complex as Tokyo’s Metro lines.
Tram Lines and Destinations:
Nagasaki is compact and well-connected, with many of its top attractions, which are easily accessible by Tram.
The city boasts four main tram lines, each color-coded for convenience and a fifth (Tram Line 2) used on special occasions.
However, you do not need to worry about it. Let’s look at the easy way to get to the Nagasaki Tram Lines below.
- Tram Line 1 (Blue):
- Akasako to Sofukuji Temple
- Highlights: Peace Park, Mount Inasayama, and Dejim
- Tram Line 2 (Purple):
Rarely used except during festivals and special occasions, Nagasaki Tram Line 2 connects important parts of the city for specific events. If you visit during a festival, check its availability—it can save you time.
- Tram Line 3 (Red):
- Akasako to Hotarujaya
- Highlights: Suwa Jinja Shrine and the Siebold Memorial Museum
- Tram Line 4 (Yellow):
- Sofukuji Temple to Hotarujaya
- Highlights: The iconic Megane Bridge and Kofukuji Temple
- Tram Line 5 (Green):
- Ishibashi to Hotarujaya
- Highlights: The scenic Dutch Slope Clover Garden and Chinatown
Each Tram Station provides a detailed list of stops Nagasaki Tram Line map and attractions. Every station has a big map.
So look it once and make it easy to plan your journey.
Tips: The best way to keep a tram map handy and you can watch it when you need it. I usually keep one screenshot of the Tram map on my mobile.
Fares and Tickets:
Nagasaki’s tram fare system is simple. A single ride costs just 140 yen for adults and 70 yen for children, regardless of the distance.
For a better deal, grab a 600 yen One-Day Pass, which will offer unlimited travel for the entire day.
Why the One-Day Pass?
Japan is famous for public transportation. Every city has some kind of day pass. Nagasaki City is no exception. It has a very convenient Tram One-Day Pass.
It is better to take one if you ride a lot daily.
- Unlimited travel = Unlimited freedom.
- No need to worry about carrying exact change.
- If you take five or more rides!
How to Get Your One-Day Pass?
Now you want to buy a One-Day Pass. That is a good choice. However, passes cannot be purchased onboard the Tram.
So plan ahead where you will buy. The One-Day Pass is widely available:
- JR Nagasaki Station
- Nagasaki Tourist Information Centre
- Hotels like APA Hotel Nagasaki Ekimae
Boarding and Alighting:
- Board: Enter through the rear door.
- Alight: Exit through the front door, where you’ll pay the driver or show your One-Day Pass.
But when you get off the Tram, you have to go to the front and show your pass to the driver.
Switching Trams?
You only need to switch Tram if necessary. However, there are some tourist spots where you need to switch trams, such as Tsukimachi.
If transferring at Tsukimachi, ask the driver for an interchange ticket to avoid double payment. Show this ticket when alighting from your next Tram. (A One-Day Pass simplifies this process, as always.)
But I have never done it. I have just paid an extra 170 yen after switching the Trams.
Pro Tip:
Avoid the hassle—buy the One-Day Pass. It’s worth every yen.
Recommendation:
Grab a One-Day Pass, plan your stops, and enjoy the charm of this historic city. I am sure you will enjoy the city using the Nagasaki Tram Line.