4-Day Adventure in Vibrant Nagasaki, Japan

Discover the historic beauty and resilience of Nagasaki.

22 April 2023

Nagasaki is a beautiful coastal city located in southwestern Japan. Visitors to Nagasaki can explore its rich history and culture, including its role as a formerly important port and the site of the atomic bomb during World War II. Some popular attractions include the Nagasaki Peace Park, Glover Garden, and the historic Chinese Quarter.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Nagasaki's History

  • Check into the Hotel Monterey Nagasaki a charming European-style hotel with a great view of the city
  • Visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park which pays tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb
  • Take a stroll through Dejima and learn about the history of Nagasaki's connection to Dutch traders
  • Enjoy dinner at Shikairo, a local restaurant famous for their Nagasaki Champon, a delicious noodle dish with seafood and vegetables
Day 2

Exploring Nagasaki's Natural Beauty

  • Head to Mt. Inasa for a stunning panoramic view of the city and its surroundings
  • Take a boat ride to Hashima Island, also known as "Battleship Island", to explore its eerie abandoned buildings
  • Visit Glover Garden, a park filled with western-style mansions and beautiful gardens
  • Try out Nagasaki's famous Castella cake at Bunmeido, a local bakery that has been making the cake since the 1800s
  • Relax at the Tenjin-yama Park which offers a tranquil escape from the city bustle
Day 3

Immerse Yourself in Nagasaki Culture

  • Take a dip at the famous Nagasaki Onsen "Laguna Ten Bosch" that offers a range of indoor and outdoor pools with views of the sea
  • Visit the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum to admire the works of artists from Nagasaki and beyond
  • Learn about the Chinese influence on Nagasaki's culture at the Confucius Shrine and nearby Chinatown
  • For lunch, try out the Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) at Toruko, a local restaurant with a lively atmosphere
  • Attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Shofuen, a tea house located in the heart of the city
Day 4

Farewell Nagasaki

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before checking out
  • Visit the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium where you can observe a variety of penguin species
  • Buy some souvenirs at Hamano-machi Arcade, a shopping street filled with local goods and foods
  • Grab some tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen at Kabuki-cho Ramen, a cozy noodle shop loved by locals
  • Bid farewell to Nagasaki by taking a scenic cruise along the Nagasaki harbor, soaking in the final sights and sounds of this beautiful city

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.

More travel plans

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.

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 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.

A Romantic Getaway to Nagasaki for Two

Nagasaki, Japan is the perfect destination for a romantic trip. You and your partner can explore the quaint streets of the historic city, take a leisurely boat ride to see the stunning views of the harbor, and enjoy local delicacies such as Nagasaki Champon, a savory noodle soup. Don't forget to visit the beautiful Glover Garden to take in the breathtaking views of the city and harbor.