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

The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Nagasaki, Japan

Nagasaki, Japan is an ideal destination for travelers on a limited budget. Visiting the city's top attractions like the Nagasaki Peace Park, Glover Garden, and the iconic Oura Church won't cost you a fortune. Affordable accommodations like dormitories, hostels, and budget hotels are also available, offering a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

Nagasaki Navigated: 4 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

A trip to Nagasaki, Japan promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly fun. Begin by exploring the iconic Nagasaki Peace Park, which pays tribute to the atomic bombing during World War II. Delight the kids with a visit to Huis Ten Bosch, a Dutch-themed amusement park featuring rides, flower gardens, and thrilling shows. Finally, take a leisurely boat ride to the picturesque Gunkanjima Island for a unique glimpse into the abandoned mining town that once thrived there.

The Romantic 5-Day Getaway to Nagasaki, Japan

A trip to Nagasaki, Japan for a romantic getaway offers the perfect blend of history, culture and modernity. Walk hand in hand through the charming streets of Nagasaki’s bustling city center, visit the beautiful Huis Ten Bosch theme park and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and coastline from Mount Inasa. End your trip by soaking in an open-air hot spring while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Escape for a 3-Day Adventure in Nagasaki!

Nagasaki offers a perfect blend of history, scenic beauty, and romance. Couples can visit the stunning Peace Park and Museum, stroll along the Megane Bridge for a breathtaking view, and enjoy the soothing waters of the city's hot springs. With its unique food, atmosphere, and culture, Nagasaki is a must-visit destination for any couple looking for a romantic getaway.