Things To Do
in Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a vibrant city located on the island of Kyushu, Japan, known for its rich history and unique blend of cultures. Once a bustling trade port, it played a significant role in Japan's interaction with the West during the Edo period. The city is renowned for its scenic beauty, featuring hills, valleys, and a picturesque harbor.

Today, Nagasaki is a place where history, modernity, and nature coexist harmoniously, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Nagasaki Peace Park, where you can reflect on the city's history and visit the Peace Museum.

afternoon
:

Head to Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, to explore its unique architecture and learn about the history of foreign trade in Japan.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, followed by a stroll through the charming streets of the Dutch Slope area.

day 2
Day 2: Scenic Wonders
morning
:

Take the ropeway to Mount Inasa for breathtaking views of Nagasaki and its bay.

afternoon
:

Visit the Glover Garden, a beautiful park showcasing Western-style houses from the late 19th century.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant famous for Nagasaki's specialty, champon, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$7
🍣Sushi Plate$15
🍵Cup of Tea$3
🎟️Museum Entry Fee$5
🏨Mid-range Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Stunning natural scenery and views.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • High humidity in summer can be uncomfortable.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Nagasaki

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Inasa

Offers panoramic views of Nagasaki, especially stunning at sunset.

Glover Garden

A beautiful park with Western-style buildings that provide a charming backdrop for photographs.

Nagasaki Peace Park

A poignant location with symbolic statues and fountains, ideal for capturing the spirit of peace.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nagasaki

Nagasaki boasts a rich culinary heritage that reflects its history as a trading port, offering a unique blend of Japanese and Western influences.

Nagasaki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Champon

A hearty noodle soup with a rich seafood and pork broth, topped with vegetables and seafood.

Must-Try!

Sara Udon

Crispy fried noodles served with a thick, savory sauce and a variety of toppings.

Nagasaki Castella

A light and fluffy sponge cake introduced by the Portuguese, famous for its sweetness.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown

Home to numerous street food stalls offering dumplings, fried snacks, and more.

Hamanomai Market

A local market where you can find fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nagasaki experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures hover around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Rain is common, especially during the summer months, making an umbrella a must-have. The area is also prone to typhoons from August to October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting; it is polite to bow slightly when meeting someone.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nagasaki is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services.

Tipping in Nagasaki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; excellent service is included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms in March and April, with mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather; it's a great time to explore beaches and enjoy local festivals.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage from late October to November with comfortable temperatures.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; visit hot springs for a unique experience.

Nightlife Guide

Nagasaki at Night

Nagasaki's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of traditional izakayas, modern bars, and karaoke joints. The Shimabara area is particularly popular for its nightlife, where you can enjoy local brews and cocktails. Additionally, there are several live music venues and clubs that cater to various tastes, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Nagasaki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nagasaki Prefectural Nature Park

Features well-maintained trails and offers stunning views of the surrounding nature.

Hiking Trails at Mount Unzen

Known for its volcanic landscape, this area provides challenging hikes and beautiful scenic vistas.

Airports

How to reach Nagasaki by plane.

Nagasaki Airport

Located approximately 40 minutes from the city center, it serves domestic and some international flights, providing convenient access to Nagasaki.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nagasaki is a relatively walkable city, especially in the central areas where many attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the city is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some hilly areas may require more effort, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Japanese Citizens

The majority of the population consists of Japanese citizens, with a rich cultural heritage.

Foreign Residents

Nagasaki has a small but significant community of foreign residents, often connected to the city's history as a trading port.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Nagasaki, with many local teams and a strong following.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely played and watched, with local leagues and schools fostering talent.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nagasaki is moderate, with peak hours during the morning and evening. Public transportation includes buses and trams that connect various parts of the city and are generally reliable. Taxis are also available, but it's often more convenient to walk or use public transport in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nagasaki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is common in Nagasaki, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in noodle soups.

Allergy Considerations

It is advisable to communicate any allergies, as seafood is prevalent in many local dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nagasaki is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are accessible, and most healthcare professionals speak basic English. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide