Things To Do
in Nagasaki
Nagasaki sits along the western coast of Kyushu, blending a resilient postwar spirit with a longstanding maritime heritage. The city preserves Christian influences and European trading history visible in its churches and districts like Dejima. Modern neighborhoods sit beside historic sites such as Peace Park, Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge), and Glover Garden, offering a unique juxtaposition of cultures.
With harbor views, volcanic scenery, and a refined regional cuisine, Nagasaki makes for a compact and deeply atmospheric destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Nagasaki Peace Park, where you can reflect on the profound history of the atomic bombing of 1945. Stroll through the park to see the various monuments, including the Peace Statue, which stands as a symbol of hope and peace. Enjoy the serene surroundings as you take in the views of the nearby Urakami Cathedral, the largest Catholic church in Japan.
After a peaceful morning, head to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum to delve deeper into the city's history during World War II. The museum offers poignant exhibits and personal accounts that provide insight into the impact of the bomb on the city and its people. Following your museum visit, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, where you can learn about Japan's history of international trade.
As evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Nagasaki Champon dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of this famous noodle dish. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, where you can see the beautiful illuminated skyline of Nagasaki. Finish your evening with a visit to the Oura Church, the oldest wooden church in Japan, which is enchanting when lit up at night.
Begin your day with a visit to Glover Garden, an open-air museum that showcases historic Western-style buildings, including the former residence of Thomas Glover. As you explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy stunning views of Nagasaki harbor and the surrounding hills. The rich history and architecture of the area provide a perfect backdrop for a morning of cultural immersion.
Afterward, make your way to the nearby Dutch Slope, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets lined with Western-style houses and picturesque scenery. Stop by the Glover House, which is now a museum, to learn about the life of Thomas Glover and his contributions to Japan's modernization. Enjoy a light lunch at a café in the area, sampling local pastries and beverages.
In the evening, head to the vibrant Nagasaki Chinatown, one of the oldest in Japan, to explore its colorful streets and shops. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants offering authentic Chinese cuisine, including Ningyo-yaki, a local sweet. As you stroll through the area, soak in the lively atmosphere filled with lanterns and the aroma of delicious food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🍣Sushi or seafood meal for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and resilient culture
- Beautiful harbor views and nearby nature
- Compact city center with a mix of museums and temples
- Can be crowded with daytime visitors in peak seasons
- Some hills and stairs can make walking routes challenging
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Nagasaki
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque stone bridge reflected in the water, offering symmetrical foregrounds of water and architecture.
Wide lawns, memorials, and the Atomic Bomb Museum with contemplative city views in the distance.
Historic Western-style houses with panoramic harbor views and lush gardens.
One of Japan’s oldest Catholic churches, set against a backdrop of modern streets and a calm plaza.
Broad city panoramas at dusk and night, with glittering harbor lights below.
Food in Nagasaki
Nagasaki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A richly flavored noodle dish piled with pork, seafood, and vegetables in a rich pork-and-seafood broth.
Must-Try!
Thick fried noodles topped with a generous assortment of vegetables, seafood, and meat in a light sauce.
A soft, honey-sweet sponge cake brought by Portuguese traders centuries ago; a Nagasaki specialty found in many cafes and patisseries.
Tempura-style vegetables and chicken options; popular at casual eateries and yatai stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling street stalls and small eateries offering quick bites, seafood skewers, and regional snacks in the heart of Nagasaki’s Chinatown.
Markets and waterfront vendors where you can sample fresh seafood, side dishes, and local sweets with harbor views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite bow or a simple 'Konnichiwa'; speak softly in public spaces and queues.
Remove shoes when entering certain traditional spaces or homes; obey shrine and temple etiquette, including quiet behavior and no photography in restricted areas.
Keep voices low on trains and buses; handle chopsticks properly; avoid pointing or heavy-handed gestures.
Safety
Tipping in Nagasaki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. In rare service-minded situations, a small tip may be quietly given in rare cases, but it is generally unnecessary.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express) are common in hotels, larger stores, and restaurants. Some smaller shops and rural spots may be cash-only or card-limited, so carry some yen. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted in transit hubs and larger retailers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoms around the city; ideal for strolling parks and waterfront paths.
Warm and humid; typhoon activity can occur; stay hydrated and seek shade along coastal promenades.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage; great for outdoor trails and sunset views.
Cool but usually mild; rain is possible, especially on the coast; layers recommended.
Nagasaki at Night
Hiking in Nagasaki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking route near central Nagasaki offering city views and historical ruins.
Volcanic area with multiple hiking routes, dramatic crater landscapes, and hot springs; a day trip from Nagasaki.
Airports
How to reach Nagasaki by plane.
Located in Ōmura, about 50-60 minutes by bus or taxi from central Nagasaki.
Major international gateway in Hakata; about 2-3 hours by train or bus from Nagasaki.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with aging demographics and strong regional identity.
Significant presence in Shinchi Chinatown with cultural shops and restaurants.
Smaller but growing community linked to universities, tourism, and international exchanges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in schools and local leagues; many sports facilities around the region.
Local clubs and matches, particularly in regional leagues and youth programs.
Coastal kayaking along Nagasaki’s harbor and nearby islands during calm seas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nagasaki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Nagasaki dishes rely on seafood-based dashi. Look for vegetable-forward options or request dashi-free broth; ask for miso or soy-based sauces and confirm ingredients when ordering.