Nagasaki City is about 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) southwest of Tokyo. It takes about one hour and 40 minutes by air and is a direct flight from Tokyo to Nagasaki. It is the fastest and most convenient option.
Nagasaki, the 42nd prefecture of Japan, is located in the Kyushu region near the East China Sea, surrounded by numerous islands. It’s a hidden gem where history, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomic experiences come together, offering a serene and unique experience often missed by travelers focused on Tokyo or Kyoto.
Journey Through History:
Nagasaki City is one of Japan’s most historically rich cities. Its role as a gateway for trade with the West during the Edo period shaped its cosmopolitan character.
In fact, Nagasaki was the only Japanese port open to foreign trade for over two centuries, making it a hub for cultural exchange.
Key historical spots include:
- Dejima Island: Once an artificial trading post for the Dutch. It’s now a beautifully preserved area that brings Japan’s period of isolation to life.
- Suwa Shrine: Built in 1614 during Japan’s Edo period as part of the Tokugawa shogunate’s efforts to suppress Christianity. The shrine was established to promote Shinto.
- Atomic Bomb Museum: Vital for understanding the devastating impact of heartless war.
- Peace Park: A spot of the enduring hope for peace and avoid war.
- Oura Church: Japan’s oldest existing Christian church, which has a unique role in introducing Christianity to Japan.
No, I can’t finish my recommendation. I still have many spots to mention.
Yes, one of these is Glover Garden. It’s an open-air museum that showcases European-style homes and gardens from the 19th century.
You don’t have to walk far. It’s just next to the Qura Church. You’ll see stunning views of the harbor from the garden.
Cultural Melting Pot:
Unlike many Japanese cities, Nagasaki City boasts a distinct cultural diversity influenced by Europe, China, and Korea.
Some food famous foot menus are below:
- Chinatown: One of Japan’s oldest Chinatowns, this area is a sensory feast with colorful gates, traditional shops, and street food like pork buns and champon.
- Shippoku Cuisine: A Nagasaki specialty, Shippoku is a harmonious blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Western culinary styles served on a round table—a rarity in Japan.
- Champon: Hearty noodle dish, a Chinese cuisine, now a Nagasaki signature.
- Castella Cake: Introduced by Portuguese traders, this fluffy sponge cake travelers never miss to taste it.
- Sara Udon: Crispy noodles. It’s topped with a savory mix of vegetables and meat that offers a delightful texture contrast.
I know that’s not enough.
Have you ever heard about Toruko Rice?
Toruko Rice is a Nagasaki specialty that combines rice, spaghetti, and a breaded cutlet on one plate.
Do you know where to eat Champon and Sara Udon? Read HERE.
Natural Beauty Like No Other:
Nagasaki’s natural wonders are often overshadowed by its historical sites, but they’re equally captivating.
You can choose from below:
- Gunkanjima (Battleship Island): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this abandoned mining island offers a beautiful glimpse into Japan’s industrial past. Take a boat tour to witness its eerie charm.
- Unzen-Amakusa National Park: A paradise for eco-tourists, this park features hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and hiking trails. The bubbling sulfur fields of Unzen Jigoku (“Unzen Hell”) are a must-see. Take a tour.
- Islands of Nagasaki: With over 600 islands, Nagasaki is a haven for island hoppers. Don’t miss Tsushima, with its pristine beaches and lush forests, as well as the Goto Islands, which are known for their hidden Christian churches and stunning coastal scenery. Book a room in Goto Island.
The beauty of Nagasaki City is endless.
The most beautiful near the Nagasaki Central Station is Mount Inasa.
The Mount Inasa Free Observatory is the best place to see sunset.
Yes, at night, it’s one of the “Three Great Night Views” of Japan. The twinkling city lights, surrounded by mountains and the sea, create a breathtaking panorama. People never stop clicking their cameras.
Attractions Beyond the Obvious:
Nagasaki has plenty of well-known attractions which worth exploring:
- Huis Ten Bosch: This Dutch-themed park may sound kitschy, but its life-sized European streetscapes, flower fields, and evening light shows are a surreal experience(Book Ticket).
- Iojima Island: A short ferry ride from Nagasaki’s main town. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing at hot springs, water sports, or coastal views. You can book the OJika Island tour, too.
- Hidden Christian Villages: Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveal a deep and moving story. These villages take you back to a time when Japan’s hidden Christians practiced their faith in secret, risking everything during years of persecution.
Experiences That Bloggers Often Miss:
I’m a blogger. I know, sometimes, I miss some important tourist spots. I’ve been in Nagasaki City for a few days. I kept the idea that I may miss something special.
But you shouldn’t miss it if you’re there during that time.
- Nagasaki Kunchi Festival: Held at Suwa Shrine in October. Its 400-year-old festival features vibrant parades, traditional dances, and dragon boat races. It’s the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Traditional Sake Breweries: Take a Tour of Nagasaki’s lesser-known sake breweries and taste locally crafted sake infused with the flavors of the region.
- Tomyo-dai Candle Festival: Held in the Goto Islands in early autumn around September. This serene event illuminates Christian churches with hundreds of candles, creating a mystical atmosphere.
- Nagasaki Lantern Festival: Takes place in February. Thousands of lanterns illuminate the night, transforming the Nakashima River and Magane Bridge into a magical wonderland.
Besides, several festivals take place in different seasons. You just have to keep focusing on some streets and social media posts when you’re there.
Where To Stay?
You can stay in a hotel room if you’re just for one or two days. However, staying at an apartment hotel is better than staying at any Nagasaki Hotel if you’re with a family with kids.
We were there during hsr2024, which was almost 10 days. So, we decided to stay in an apartment hotel like home. People can cook whatever they like. We did, too.
One of the most convenient apartment hotels is Grand Base Nagasaki, located in Nagasaki, Nakamachi, near Nagasaki Station. See photos and location here. You can book here, too.
Nagasaki Airport to Nagasaki City:
You have just arrived at Nagasaki Airport and are thinking about how to get to Nagasaki’s main city.
Come out from baggage claim. Do you see the information deck right in front of you? Ask them about the bus stop for Nagasaki.
If you don’t want to ask, just come out and walk just 5 steps off your left, and you’ll see the bus counter. The bus departs from there every 5-7 minutes to Nagasaki Station, which is the central station in Nagasaki City.
Take a bus ticket, which costs 1,200 yen. No matter how much luggage you have, the driver will put you in the car carefully and sit comfortably. After 45 minutes, you’ll be in Nagasaki’s central city.
However, if you want a rental car, it is better to book one in advance, or you can just book a car here, and the driver will pick you up.
Otherwise, you may have to wait and ask someone to translate for you. But honestly, I recommend the bus. It’s cheaper.
Practical Tips:
- Getting Around: The tram system is the easiest and the most convenient way to explore ( read the post & download Tram Map).
- Best Time to Visit: The weather is the best in spring and autumn.
- Local Souvenirs: Take a box of Castella cake or handmade pottery from Hasami, a nearby town famous for its ceramics for your family.
Why Nagasaki Should Be on Your List?
It’s not only famous for the Nagasaki Nuclear Bomb but for other beautiful resources. Indeed, Nagasaki and Hiroshima became more famous after the devastating World War II.
Of course, Nagasaki today is a city of contrasts, where tragedy and beauty coexist, East meets West, and where you’ll find stories in every corner. From its historical significance to its natural splendor and rich food history, your visit will be unforgettable.
Wow! one more thing.
If you go from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Nagasaki, book your flight seat on the right to see the beautiful Mount Fuji from the sky.
However, if you’re coming back from Nagasaki Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport, then book your flight seat on the left. Just wait, and the pilot will announce it when the flight comes nearby.
Don’t think about only the Nagasaki death toll because of the Atomic Bomb. It’s now habitable, and don’t ask, “Is Nagasaki still radioactive?”
Make Nagasaki City your next destination. Today, Nagasaki is entirely free from radioactivity and is fresh.
You can find more tour activities from websites like GetYourGuide, Klook, Viator, and Travelpayout. I recommend booking in advance for your smooth trips.
Otherwise, you may miss your important time standing in a long queue.
Note: The good thing is online booking is a few dollars cheaper than you buy on the spot. It’s not that I get some commissions, but it’s beneficial for you, too. You can buy directly from these sites without using my affiliate links. However, I would highly appreciate it if you could wish my affiliate links and “No extra cost for you.”