Nagasaki's Family-Friendly Adventure: 5 Days of Fun!

Discover the rich history and family fun of Nagasaki, Japan's captivating fusion of past and present.

19 July 2023

Nagasaki, Japan offers a perfect blend of historical significance and family-friendly attractions. Start your adventure by visiting the iconic Nagasaki Peace Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Explore the fascinating Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum with your family to gain insights into the tragic events of 1945. Finally, take a fun-filled day trip to Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, where your kids can marvel at adorable penguins while learning about marine life conservation efforts.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Nagasaki!

  • Check into Hotel Myricks, a charming family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and delightful views of the city.
  • Start your adventure with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park, where colorful origami cranes flutter in the breeze, symbolizing hope and peace.
  • Don't miss the Atomic Bomb Museum, a haunting reminder of the devastating events of World War II and the resilience of the Japanese people.
  • Take a stroll along Meganebashi, the "spectacles bridge," known for its unique arches that resemble a pair of eyeglasses.
  • Fill your bellies with a mouthwatering meal of champon, a local specialty noodle dish bursting with flavors from land and sea.
  • End the day with a serene harbor cruise, watching the mesmerizing Nagasaki skyline lights twinkle like fireflies.
Day 2

Mysterious Allure of Gunkanjima Island

  • Embark on a thrilling boat ride to Gunkanjima Island, the "Battleship Island," an eerie abandoned coal mining town frozen in time.
  • Wander through the crumbling buildings and imagine the lives of the workers who once inhabited this desolate place.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the island's intriguing history and its role in shaping Nagasaki's industrial past.
  • Snap incredible photos of the island's iconic structures, such as the dilapidated apartment blocks and towering chimneys.
  • Return to Nagasaki and unwind at Oyama Onsen, a rejuvenating hot spring resort, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of adventure.
  • Sample Unzen beer, brewed with pure mineral water from nearby Mount Unzen, in a cozy local izakaya.
Day 3

Cultural Delights and Delectable Delicacies

  • Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, known as Shinchi Chinatown, where tantalizing aromas of steamed buns and sizzling dumplings fill the air.
  • Immerse yourself in the Chinese culture of Nagasaki by visiting Kofukuji Temple, adorned with beautiful Chinese-style architecture and serene gardens.
  • Suited for explorers of all ages, the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium offers an adorable display of waddling and swimming penguins.
  • Take a cable car ride up Mount Inasa to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Nagasaki, especially magical during sunset.
  • Indulge in a delightful evening of yatai-hopping, where you can savor local street food favorites like yakitori, takoyaki, and Nagasaki's famous Castella cake.
Day 4

Mystical Island Escape to Hirado

  • Catch the ferry to Hirado Island, a hidden gem where history meets tranquility, and dive into the captivating tales of samurais and missionaries.
  • Visit Hirado Castle, standing regally atop a hill, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape and the picturesque Hirado Bay.
  • Explore enchanting medieval streets lined with traditional Japanese houses and vibrant foliage, reminiscent of a Hayao Miyazaki film.
  • Discover sacred sites like Kiyotakiji Temple and admire its ornate architecture blending Buddhism and Shintoism.
  • Savor a seafood feast at one of the island's charming seaside restaurants, relishing in the fresh flavors of the sea.
Day 5

Farewell Nagasaki, Memories Last Forever

  • Bid adieu to Nagasaki's charm with a visit to the Nagasaki Penguin Museum, home to a vast collection of penguin-related artifacts and exhibits.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Glover Garden, a beautiful hilltop enclave of Western-style mansions, offering a glimpse into Nagasaki's international past.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs in Hamanoichi Arcade, a bustling covered shopping street packed with quirky shops and delightful treats.
  • Enjoy one last taste of Nagasaki's culinary delights at Kagetsu, a beloved restaurant known for its mouthwatering Kotojiru ramen.
  • As you depart, cherish the memories of your Nagasaki adventure, knowing that the city's history, flavors, and warmth will stay with you forever.

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.

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