Explore Nagasaki: Your Perfect 3-Day Travel Guide

Discover a peaceful allure in Nagasaki, Japan.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Nagasaki, Japan would offer a unique blend of history and culture. Visitors can explore the Nagasaki Peace Park, which commemorates the devastating atomic bombing that occurred here during World War II, or take a walk through the charming Dejima district, a once-thriving Dutch trading post. Additionally, travelers can enjoy local delicacies such as champon (a savory noodle dish) or attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Check-in at Hotel Monterey Nagasaki, a historic hotel in downtown Nagasaki
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Glover Garden, filled with Western-style mansions and stunning views of the city
  • Visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park to learn about the tragic events of August 9, 1945
  • Walk around Dejima, a historic Dutch trading post and former fan-shaped island in Nagasaki Harbor
  • Try local Nagasaki specialties such as Castella cake, Champon noodles, and Kakuni pork at the bustling street food stalls of Shinchi Chinatown
Day 2

Island Hopping

  • Take a day trip to the nearby island of Gunkanjima, also known as Battleship Island, a former mining town that is now an eerie abandoned ghost town
  • Explore the peaceful island of Hirado, home to beautiful temples, shrines, and a historic castle
  • Take a ferry to the small island of Sakushima, known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear water
  • Stop by the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium on the way back to Nagasaki for an up-close encounter with adorable penguins and other marine life
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel's onsen (hot spring) for a traditional Japanese experience
Day 3

Nagasaki's Hidden Gems

  • Visit the unique and quirky Megane Bridge, known as the "spectacles bridge" due to its shape
  • Explore the 400-year-old Suwa Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Nagasaki with beautiful gardens and architecture
  • Take a scenic cable car ride up to Mount Inasa for breathtaking views of the city
  • Visit the fascinating Oura Catholic Church, Japan's oldest standing church that played an important role in the history of Christianity in Japan
  • Dine at the stylish and elegant Shikairo restaurant, famous for its delicious kaiseki (multi-course) meals and panoramic views of Nagasaki Harbor.
  • Nagasaki is a city full of history, character, and charm. This itinerary is just a small sample of what the city has to offer. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Nagasaki by plane is to fly to Nagasaki Airport (NGS) from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) or Osaka International Airport (ITM). There are also direct flights from Seoul and Shanghai. From Nagasaki Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Nagasaki by car is to take the Kyushu Expressway from Fukuoka to Nagasaki. The journey takes around 2 hours, and there are several tolls along the way.

Train

The best way to get to Nagasaki by train is to take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo or Osaka to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, and then transfer to the Kamome limited express train to Nagasaki Station. The journey takes around 4 hours in total.

Boat

The best way to get to Nagasaki by boat is to take a ferry from Busan, South Korea to Hakata Port in Fukuoka, and then take the train or bus to Nagasaki. There are several ferry companies that operate this route, and the journey takes around 3 hours.

Bus

The best way to get to Nagasaki by bus is to take an overnight bus from Tokyo or Osaka to Nagasaki. There are several bus companies that operate this route, and the journey takes around 12 hours.

Destination

Nagasaki

You know what they say: if at first you don't succeed, try, try again. And that's exactly what Nagasaki did after being bombed during World War II, rebounding as a vibrant and welcoming city.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Nagasaki, Japan: A Memorable Family Day Trip

Nagasaki, Japan offers a unique blend of history, culture, and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip. Visit the iconic Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to understand the tragic history of the city, followed by a peaceful stroll through Glover Garden with its beautifully preserved Western-style houses. For a fun-filled adventure, head to Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium and enjoy a captivating display of penguins, dolphins, and a thrilling dolphin show, ensuring an unforgettable family experience.

Nagasaki on a Budget: Islands, History & Culture

Nagasaki, Japan offers an authentic and culturally rich experience for travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the historic Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum for free, while sampling local delicacies from street vendors and affordable restaurants. Staying at budget-friendly hostels or capsule hotels in Nagasaki can further reduce costs and allow for a longer stay in this captivating city.

Explore Nagasaki: Your Perfect 3-Day Travel Guide

As a tourist, a trip to Nagasaki, Japan would offer a unique blend of history and culture. Visitors can explore the Nagasaki Peace Park, which commemorates the devastating atomic bombing that occurred here during World War II, or take a walk through the charming Dejima district, a once-thriving Dutch trading post. Additionally, travelers can enjoy local delicacies such as champon (a savory noodle dish) or attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Nagasaki Uncovered: 2 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

Nagasaki, Japan offers a fantastic family-friendly experience with a perfect blend of historical significance and modern attractions. Families can explore the renowned Nagasaki Peace Park, dedicated to promoting peace and commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing. The city also offers interactive museums, like the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, where children can learn about marine life and even engage in feeding experiences.