Nagasaki, Japan, is a cultural gem on the island of Kyushu. With influences of Dutch and Portuguese culture from former inhabitation, as well as a strong Japanese heritage, Nagasaki has no shortage of history. Of course, Nagasaki also holds the difficult past of being nuclear bombed in WWII, and it has done an incredible job rebuilding and recovering from such a horrific event. Even if history isn’t your first choice when traveling, be sure to put some of these learning opportunities on your list, along with natural wonders, and delicious eats. And if you’re clueless about where to stay in Nagasaki, don’t fret. From humble ryokans to hotels with sea views, there are plenty of options for all sorts of stays. Indeed, there’s no denying the rich and layered opportunities that Nagasaki has to offer. Read below and find out about the top things to do in Nagasaki, Japan.
1. Visit the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
The Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is is home to a variety of penguins, including the popular king penguin and the gentoo penguin, as well as other marine animals such as sea lions, dolphins, and seals. Visitors can watch the penguins waddle and swim in their natural habitats, and even interact with them during feeding times.
The aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it a great destination for families with children. In addition to the penguins, visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits showcasing different marine ecosystems and species, including a touch tank where visitors can get up close and personal with starfish, sea cucumbers, and other creatures.
Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
Address: 3-16 Shukumachi, Nagasaki, 851-0121, Japan
Website: Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
2. Learn history at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
At the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, visitors can learn about the devastating impact of nuclear warfare. Located in the heart of Nagasaki, the museum offers a sobering look at the events leading up to the atomic bombing of the city on August 9th 1945 and its aftermath.
The exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts of the survivors, known as hibakusha, who bravely shared their stories to ensure that the world never forgets the tragedy that occurred. Visitors can also witness the destructive power of the bomb through life-sized models and videos that vividly demonstrate the scale of destruction.
The museum also highlights the ongoing efforts to promote peace and nuclear disarmament, making it a valuable educational resource for people of all ages. Despite its somber subject matter, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum is a powerful and moving experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting Nagasaki.
Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
Address: 7-8 Hiranomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8117, Japan
Website: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5.30pm (daily)
3. Experience a taste of the Netherlands at Huis Ten Bosch
You will not believe that you are in Japan when visiting Huis Ten Bosch, a theme park recreating Dutch architecture and culture. The original Huis Ten Bosch, or “House in the Woods” exists in The Hague, Netherlands, and is one of the official homes of the Dutch monarchs. Hence, this Huis Ten Bosch is meant to emulate a 17th-century Dutch village, complete with canals and historic sites. Enjoy live entertainment, shopping, and restaurants when visiting this unique recreation. A tulip festival in the spring and frequent fireworks cap off the spirit of the Dutch who once lived in Nagasaki.
Huis Ten Bosch
Address: 1-1 Huis Ten Bosch Machi, Sasebo, Nagasaki 859-3292, Japan
Website: Huis Ten Bosch
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 65.71 USD
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4. Stay in European-style comfort at Hotel Okura JR Huis Ten Bosch (from USD 150)
Reasonably priced with excellent value for the amenities and location.
Spacious rooms, onsen, buffet dining, and convenient proximity to Huis Ten Bosch.
Close to JR station, Huis Ten Bosch entrance, and offers lovely park views.
Excellent buffet options, including Western and Japanese breakfast, and close to various dining options.
If you really adore Dutch culture, then stay a bit longer at Huis Ten Bosch’s hotel, Hotel Okura. Luxuriate in the comfort and cleanliness that Hotel Okura provides. Just a five-minute walk from Huis Ten Bosch, enjoy all the activities of the park, then retreat to kick up your feet. Free private parking, international cuisine, and a fabulous breakfast await your stay at Hotel Okura. Additionally, enjoy the unique opportunity to bathe in the on-site public onsen, a sure-fire way to feel the vacation vibes.
Hotel Okura JR Huis Ten Bosch
Address: Huis Ten Bosch 10 Sasebo
194 meters (0.2 ft) from Huis Ten Bosch
5. Explore the stunning Kujuku-Shima Island
Kujuku-Shima Island is a beautiful day trip from Nagasaki that should be on every traveler’s list. Kujuku-Shima literally translates to the “99 Islands” although there are really more like 208 islands in this densely populated cluster of Japanese islands. Cruise around the islands, swim or watch dolphins; this is part of the Saikai National Park. Visiting Kujuku-Shima is best during the summer when the clear blue waters beckon and the islands feel subtropical. Check out the 50-minute Pearl Queen Cruise which offers visitors the opportunity to see uninhabited islands that are otherwise difficult to access, operating out of Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort.
Kujuku-Shima Island
Address: Nagasaki-ken, Sasebo-shi, Funakoshichō
Website: Kujuku-Shima Island
6. Tour the shrines and temples of beautiful Iki Island
The natural beauty and sandy beaches await you at Iki Island, off the coast of Kyushu. Accessible by ferry from Hakata Port, Iki Island holds a certain mystery, punctuated by the shrines and temples on the island. With 150 registered Shinto shrines, originating from the Nara period of Japan, there is no shortage of shrine-visiting to be had. Additionally, seven “jizo” or Buddhist stone statues, sit on the island, watching over the women and children. Lush and subtropical, the island is full of stunning topography. Be sure to add a visit to Monkey Rock while you are there, which is just as it sounds, and whose stone face is most picturesque during sunset.
Iki Island
Website: Iki Island
7. Discover the tranquil coastlines of Fukue Island
Just so gorgeous, you will have your breath taken away by the beauty of Fukue Island’s coastline, the largest of the Goto Islands. Hilly terrain, churches and temples, as well as beautiful beaches, articulate just why Fukue Island is a must when visiting the Nagasaki region. Port of Fukue has the largest inhabitants in all of the Goto Islands, and it offers hotels, restaurants, and shops to explore. Historical sites from the Edo Period, as well as abundant natural resources, make time spent on Fukue Island relaxing and rejuvenating.
Fukue Island
Website: Fukue Island
8. Tour the hidden Christian churches of Kashiragashima Island
Known as the “Hidden Christian Sites” of Nagasaki, and recognized by UNESCO for their historical value, these churches pay tribute to the lesser-known Christian history of Japan. A safe haven for religious persecution after Christianity was banned in the country, this island became the training ground for Catholic preachers. In 1910, this stone church was constructed, built by the devoted parishioners. Tour these still-used churches as you learn more about Japan’s spiritual past.
Kashiragashima Island
9. Venture into the Nanatsugama Limestone Caves
If you think that what’s left to see in Nagasaki are crowded places, think again. Just an hour outside the city by car, Nanatsugama Limestone Caves are an unknown destination to most tourists. Tour the caves, expecting some tight spaces and slippery traction, with the walk taking about 20 minutes.
A popular fishing destination surrounding the caves, this area is also home to a nearby shrine in tribute to Empress Jingu. You can also tour the caverns externally by way of boat, which can be arranged at Yokubu Port.
Nanatsugama Limestone Caves
Address: 2541 Saikaicho Nakaurakitago, Saikai, Nagasaki 857-2222, Japan
Website: Nanatsugama Limestone Caves
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm (closed from Sat - Sun)
10. Discover a slice of Holland at Port Hoorn
If you didn’t get enough of Holland at Huis Ten Bosch, then head to Port Hoorn, Nagasaki’s second Dutch theme park. With a free entrance, it’s easy to get lured into the charm of Port Hoorn, home to 20 shops and restaurants, all Dutch-inspired. Drink a cup of strong espresso at Leo 8 Cafe, or head to the upcoming music event, Sakai Music Festival on September 22nd. This beautifully recreated town will leave you snapping selfies and feeling like you’ve traveled far and wide.
Port Hoorn
Address: 1683-4 Seihicho Jikibago, Saikai, Nagasaki 851-3305, Japan
Website: Port Hoorn
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 10am - 6pm (closed on Wed)
Price: Free
11. Feed the capybaras at Nagasaki Bio Park
Though capybaras are native to South America, visiting Nagasaki Bio Park offers the unusual opportunity to see them up close and personal. With about 20 friendly capybaras that love to be scratched on their behinds (see the website for “scratching tips”), they are unique mammals rarely seen up-close. Each winter, the park puts on a seasonal event where the capybara go to an open-air bath; the animal equivalent to the Japanese onsen. Needless to say, these capybaras are living good.
Nagasaki Bio Park
Address: 2291-1 Seihicho Nakayamago, Saikai, Nagasaki 851-3302, Japan
Website: Nagasaki Bio Park
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 15.96 USD
12. Tour a closed coal mine on Ikeshima Island
Nagasaki sits on a bed of underwater coal that was tapped into when a coal mine opened in 1959. At one point, over 8,000 workers manned the mine which has since been closed. Tour the mine into caverns that once extracted coal, as well as the institutions such as the school that was built for the workers’ children. This is a great exploration of the area’s resources and past, one that is great for the young and old. The mine closed in 2001, and many of the tour guides are actual workers from the coal mine who hold an insider’s knowledge.
Coal tour of Ikeshima Island
Website: Ikeshima Island
13. Enjoy Sasebo burgers at Hotel Lorelei
As Sasebo has been home to an American naval base since 1889, the American burger has found its way into the Sasebo cuisine. Not only did this town embrace the burger, but local chefs have spent time refining and improving it. So, Hotel Lorelei is a foodie destination; one that should not be missed while in this region of Japan. Head to Hotel Lorelei, a beautiful hotel that serves the burger with or without a fried egg on top. Enjoy a little bit of food history at Hotel Lorelei while you dig in!
Hotel Lorelei
Address: 449 Haenozaki Sasebo-shi Nagasaki-ken
Website: Hotel Lorelei
Opening hours: 11am - 10:30pm (daily)
14. Gaze at Nagasaki from the Mt. Inasayama Observatory
Viewing Nagasaki by night is a beautiful way to cap off the day, and your experience visiting the city. Head to Mt. Inasayama Observatory where you can travel by cable car to the top of Mt. Inasa for breathtaking views of the city below. Check out the lights of the sloped city homes as well as the reflective lights emanating from the beautiful Nagasaki Port. The cable car runs every 15 to 20 minutes and takes about 5 minutes to scale Mt. Inasa. You can also scale the mountain by bus or car, and a restaurant is just by the observation deck, offering an evening on the mountain top.
Mt. Inasayama Observatory
Address: 364 Inasamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8011, Japan
Website: Mt. Inasayama Observatory
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
15. Find out more about WWII at Nagasaki Peace Park
Commemorating the nightmarish events of the atomic bomb falling on Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, the Peace Park takes a hopeful approach to remember the past. Divided into the “Wish Zone,” “Prayer Zone,” and “Learning Zone,” Nagasaki Peace Park aims to promote peace and remembrance of those who were victims of the historic bombing. Come on August 9th to join the peace prayer ceremony held in front of the peace statue. Learn more about the atomic bombing at Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, which takes about one hour to view, and imagines a nuclear-free world.
Nagasaki Peace Park
Address: 9 Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8118, Japan
Website: Nagasaki Peace Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
16. Visit the rebuilt Urakami Cathedral
Destroyed in the Nagasaki atomic bombing, the Urakami Cathedral was rebuilt in 1959. Though only a few stones were left after the bombing, this Catholic church done in Romanesque Revival architecture has been fully restored. You can view the lone bell that survived the blast, and walk among the reconstructed church. Surviving both religious persecution and a historical blast, this cathedral pays tribute to the persevering spirit of the Japanese people. Just a 10-minute walk from the Nagasaki Peace Park, put this on your agenda when planning your time in Nagasaki.
Urakami Cathedral
Address: 1-79 Motoomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8112, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm 9 (daily)
Price: free
17. Tour Nagasaki's attractions by tram
The trams in Nagasaki are quaint, easily accessible, and a fun way to get around the city in style. With four train lines running in most parts of the city, the trams run every five to eight minutes, and can be entered in the rear, and exited through the front door, paying upon exit. Adult tickets are an affordable 1.13 USD, and transfers are free. It is also possible to purchase the Nagasaki Smart-card, a touch-card system that is cashless. Most major Nagasaki sights can be accessed by the Nagasaki Electric Tramway, adding a bit of charm to your adventuring.
Nagasaki Tram
Website: Nagasaki Tram
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: 1.13 USD for a one-way ticket
18. Climb the 277-step staircase to Suwa Shrine
Set on the side of beautiful, Mount Tamazono-san, Suwa Shrine is the largest Shinto shrine in Nagasaki. Created as a spiritual center to stop the influx of Christianity, Suwa Shrine remains an important part of Nagasaki’s living culture. Embrace unique rituals that exist at this shrine such as washing your money in the water in front of the “money doubling lion” who is said to bring increased finances. Multiple festivals throughout the year are held at the shrine, including a coming-of-age ceremony, atomic bomb remembrance event, and Kunchi; an autumnal festival formerly used as a way to search for Christians under the ban on Christianity.
Suwa Shrine
Address: 18-15 Kaminishiyamamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0006, Japan
Website: Suwa Shrine
Price: Free
19. View modern art at Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum
Quirky and cool, Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum is free of charge and open nearly 365 days a year. Home to one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain, the museum’s collections additionally include art related to Nagasaki and the Yakichiro Suma collection (Spanish-imported as well). The building was designed by renowned architect, Kuma Kengo, whose design is bright and airy with large glass windows. Located on the waterway, the sea views and rooftop garden are worth the visit.
Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum
Address: 2-1, Dejima-machi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Website: Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
20. Explore the historic trading port of Dejima
Dejima is an artificial island constructed in 1636 to keep Portuguese missionaries segregated, and then to restrict Dutch occupiers to certain areas just a few years later. Known as the Isolation Period, Japan attempted to keep outside cultural influences and in a controlled measure. The island is no longer an island, but it holds historical layers from these time periods. Dejima has been reconstructed to reflect what life would look like during the Edo Period on “exit island.” Easily accessible by tram from Nagasaki, Dejima is a true lesson in Japan’s desire to keep foreign cultures at bay, while ultimately, benefiting from the goods and information imported.
Dejima Island
Address: 6-1 Dejimamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0862, Japan
Website: Dejima Island
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
21. Shop at the vibrant Nagasaki Chinatown
Nagasaki Chinatown is a wonderful stop while in Nagasaki; both for shopping and dining. Home to the Nagasaki specialties, Chanpon and Sara Udon, no trip to Chinatown would be complete without a meal here. Similar to Dejima’s intent of keeping foreigners at bay, Chinatown was once an island meant to isolate the mostly-Fuzhounese Chinese. Now, explore Chinatown with a stroll, or plan your visit at Chinese New Year when the neighborhood comes alive with lanterns.
If you’re planning to splurge but are clueless about what to buy in Nagasaki, Chinatown is the rightful haven for your shopping spree.
Nagasaki Chinatown
Address: 10-13 Shinchimachi, Nagasaki, 850-0842, Japan
Website: Nagasaki Chinatown
22. Sample castella cakes at Fukusaya Main Store
Castella cakes are actually a nod to the lingering culture imported from the Portuguese during the 16th century. A light sponge cake, this delicacy is now a Nagasaki staple. Head to Fukusaya Main Store to sample the Fukusaya Cube which comes in a cute box for takeaway. The oldest castella shop in Nagasaki, it maintains its character and charm by continuing to make everything by hand.
Fukusaya Main Store
Address: 3-1 Funadaiku-machi, Nagasaki-shi
Website: Fukusaya Main Store
Opening hours: 8:30am - 8pm (daily)
23. Cross the picturesque Spectacles Bridge
Built in 1634 by a Chinese monk who lived at Kofukuji Temple, the Spectacles Bridge straddles Nakashima River. Also known as Meganebashi, this double arch bridge gets its nickname, “spectacles” from the reflection the arches make in the water. Considered one of the three most important bridges in Japan, the architecture of this historic attraction in Nagasaki is advanced for its time, and a wonder to behold.
Spectacles Bridge
Address: Uonomachi, Nagasaki, 850-0874, Japan
24. Walk down the sloping street of Oranda-zaka
Oranda-zaka, or the Dutch slope area of Nagasaki, is a scenic sloping street formerly inhabited by Dutch in the 19th century. Still retaining Dutch architecture, a few of the homes are open for viewing such as Higashi Yamate 13, once home to a well-to-do European family (“Dutch” referred to all Westerners at one point in Japan). Free, it’s worth a stop in, as well as a visit to their cafe downstairs which is a wonderful way to top off this slice of Nagasaki’s history.
Oranda-zaka
Address: 2 Higashiyamatemachi, Nagasaki, 850-0911, Japan
Website: Oranda-zaka
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
25. Visit Oura Church
Oura Church was built just after the Seclusion Policy in 1853 when foreign contact was limited. Also known as the church of 26 Japanese Martyrs, this Roman Catholic church pays tribute to a group of Catholics executed in 1597 in Japan. Though damaged by the atomic bomb, it was rebuilt and was the first Western-style building to be given The National Treasure designation. Entry includes admission to Our Catholic Church Christian Museum.
Oura Church
Address: 5-3 Minamiyamatemachi, Nagasaki, 850-0931, Japan
Website: Oura Church
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
26. Wander around Glover Garden
Tour the Former Glover House and soak up the beautiful surrounding gardens when you visit Glover Garden. Glover house was owned by a Scottish family who moved to Nagasaki for trade. Though the home will be closed until November 2020, you can still tour the garden whose views of the city are worth the trek. Additionally, there is a souvenir shop and cafe on-premise, and Glover Garden is just next to Oura Church, making an easy itinerary.
Glover Garden
Address: 8-1 Minamiyamatemachi, Nagasaki, 850-0931, Japan
Website: Glover Garden
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 5.72 USD
27. Explore the abandoned ruins of Hashima Island
Hashima Island, also known as Battleship Island, is a former offshore mining facility, and once the most densely populated place on earth. However, when the use of coal in Japan decreased, the island was shut down and it became a ghost town to days past. Surely, there must be a few lost souls haunting the island, with over 1,000 workers having perished from malnutrition and exhaustion, and having Korean forced laborers during WWII. Fans of James Bond will revel in memories of the 2012 “Skyfall,” in which Hashima Island was used for filming.
Hashima Island
Address: Nagasaki, Japan
28. Stroll around Shimabara Castle
The beautiful five-story Shimbara Castle was originally built during the Edo period, as a home for a feudal lord. In fact, it has been said that the heavy taxation imposed to build the castle led to a rebellion of the local people known as the Shimbara Rebellion (1637-38). However, the castle is quite stunning, jutting towards the sky with views of Mount Unzen on clear days. Small museums are also on the grounds, such as the Folk Museum and Sightseeing Revival Hall.
Shimbara Castle
Address: 1 Chome-1183-1 Jonai, Shimabara, Nagasaki 855-0036, Japan
Website: Shimbara Castle
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 5.07 USD
29. Unwind in the tranquil Iojima Island
Enjoy the white sand beaches and clear waters of picturesque Iojima Island. Occupied by the United States until 1968, Iojima Island has now been rightfully returned to Japan. A short ferry ride from Nagasaki, Iojima has no shortage of natural beauty. Volcanic in origin, the island has less than 150 inhabitants and it is a nice choice when craving to get away from the hustle and bustle of Nagasaki. Really unwind with the on-island Yasuragi Iojima onsen.
Iojima Island
Address: Mishima, Japan
30. Admire the majestic active volcano of Mount Unzen
An active volcano that last erupted in 1995, Mount Unzen commands respect. However it was the 1792 eruption that led to a landslide and tsunami, killing over 15,000 people. Mount Unzen is vividly green and is part of the Unzen Amakusa National Park, one of the first national parks in Japan. Especially beautiful during the autumn colors, Mount Unzen is always a wonderful area to explore, including hiking trails for the outdoorsman.
Mount Unzen
Address: Shimabara, Nagasaki, Kyushu Island
Website: Mount Unzen
31. Soak in Obama Onsen
If you head to Japan and you do not hit up at least one onsen, you will have not done yourself justice. Obama Onsen is a unique onsen in that it has the hottest and most active hot springs in all of Japan. Head to the onsen in any season, however, it is especially rewarding in the winter months. Take a break and enjoy a special tea at the on-site Karimizuan whose lemongrass tea and snacks are signature.
Obama Onsen
Address: 14-39 Obamacho Kitahonmachi, Unzen, Nagasaki 854-0514, Japan
Website: Obama Onsen
Opening hours: Apr - Oct: 10am -7pm (daily); Nov - Mar: 10am - 6pm (daily)
32. View wild dolphins at Kuchinotsu Port
One of the first modern ports to accept traders, you can visit for historical reasons or for natural viewing. Spotting wild dolphins is an unrivaled experience. You can see the nearly 300 wild dolphins that inhabit the Hayasaki Strait as they migrate in search of food. Local companies charter boat cruises to watch for the dolphins, and chances are that you will see these playful creatures.
Kuchinotsu Port
Address: Hei Kuchinotsucho, Minamishimabara, Nagasaki 859-2504, Japan
Visit diverse and historical Nagasaki
Nagasaki is rich in layered history that spans thousands of years, wars, and rich cultures. The greatest reality that you may need to face on your trip is that there is really plenty to see, you’ll never have to worry about what to do in Nagasaki throughout your stay. From shrines to nature, historical landmarks to local treats, this city has it all. If you can’t see it all in one trip, this destination will always be waiting for your return.
Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Nagasaki, Japan
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