Nagasaki, a city located on the western coast of Japan, has a rich history and culture. Most well-known for being one of the cities where an atomic bomb was dropped during WWII, Nagasaki is full of important historical sites. In addition to these famous sites, there is also a vibrant culture, nightlife, and food scene, making this city a great destination for everyone. This guide will take a look at some of Nagasaki’s top attractions and experiences, and also provide tips on how to make the most of your visit to this unique and historic city.
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Exploring Nagasaki's Past
You cannot visit Nagasaki without being surrounded by reminders of its past. It once served as an important port city in Japan, which can be seen today in the remnants of foreign settlements in the city. There are also well-preserved sites, such as Glover Garden, that were built centuries ago with Western influence. The European-style houses of Glover Garden have been renovated by the Japanese government and provide a unique contrast to the traditional homes in the area. For more about Glover Garden, click here.
There are several sites worth visiting that were inspired by the atomic bombing in 1945. One of the most well-known historical sites in Nagasaki is the Peace Park, which was built to commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing. The park is located next to the Atomic Bomb Museum. This museum provides a very sobering account of the aftermath of the bombing. It is a very moving experience and I highly encourage anyone visiting Nagasaki to go to the museum. Visitors can also see the Hypocenter Park, which marks the exact location where the bomb detonated. All three of these sites are conveniently located in the same area.
Enjoy Nagasaki's Scenery
Nagasaki has beautiful scenery, and there are various ways to experience its amazing views. You can take a cable car up the Nagasaki Ropeway and see panoramic views of the city. The cable car will take you to the top of Mount Inasa, which is the highest peak in the city. From there, you will be able to enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains, various landmarks in the city, and even a sunset over the ocean.
You can also enjoy the scenery by visiting the Nagasaki Bio Park. This park doubles as both a zoo and a botanical garden! It is a great place to learn about the plants and animals that live in Nagasaki. In addition to native species, you will find animals from around the world, such as capybaras, kangaroos, and llamas. The botanical garden also boasts plant species from around the world. In addition to the zoo and garden, there are also many nature trails that visitors can walk around. There is also a petting zoo and playground, making it a perfect spot for families to visit.
Experience Nagasaki's Food Scene
Nagasaki is famous for its unique and delicious cuisine, which is a fusion of Chinese and Japanese dishes. The most famous local dish is Nagasaki Champon, which is a type of ramen noodle dish with a thick, savory broth. The dish originated in Nagasaki in the late 19th century, and it’s still a popular dish today. You can check out the Nagasaki Champon Museum to learn more about this dish and try it yourself!
To fully experience Nagasaki’s food scene, you should visit the Shinchi Chinatown, which is one of the oldest Chinatowns in Japan. You will be able to try traditional Chinese and Japanese fusion foods, such as Sara Udon and Mizutaki. Additionally, there are many small local restaurants and street vendors in the city center, which are perfect for those who want to taste local specialties and street food.
Best Time to Visit Nagasaki
The best time to visit Nagasaki depends on your priorities and interests. There will be less crowds, more mild weather, and cheaper accommodations available from March to May and from September to November. In the spring time, you will be able to see the famous cherry blossoms.
If you’re interested in experiencing Nagasaki’s festivals and events, the best time to visit would be from June to August. During this time, the city hosts many festivals, such as the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, which is a colorful and exciting event that features traditional dance performances, parades, and food stalls. However, this is also when the weather is hot and humid, there are more tourists, and everything is more expensive.
If you are traveling on a budget, its definitely better to avoid the summer months. I visited in September and there were no crowds. There were also very few tourists there at that time. I was also lucky enough to find a hotel room for about $30 USD/night.
Where to Stay in Nagasaki
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay in Nagasaki. What you choose will depend on your budget, desired level of luxury, and what kind of experiences you wish to have.
Low Budget
Nagasaki is not necessarily a cheap place to stay. One of the cheapest hotels that you will find is the Hotel Tea Time, which goes for about $43/night. For anything cheaper, check out Hostelworld.
Medium Budget
There are several options for hotels within the city for travelers with a medium budget. A highly-rated hotel going for less than $100/night is the GardenRoom BnB YumYum, which goes for about $90/night. For those with a slightly higher budget, the Dormy Inn Premium Nagasaki Ekimae is a highly-rated hotel going for $150/night.
High Budget
Travelers with a large budget will have the most freedom for luxury and convenient locations. A popular option is the i + Land Nagasaki, which goes for about $250/night.
For the high-rollers, you can check out the Garden Terrace Nagasaki Hotel & Resort for over $800/night!
Tips for Visiting
Before you visit Nagasaki, here are 4 tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
1. Learn a few basic phrases in Japanese.
Not everyone will be able to speak English here. Knowing a few basic greetings or “thank you” will go a long way with the locals.
Ohayou (oh-hai-yo) – Good morning
Arigatou (ar-ee-got-oh) – Thank you
2. Download the Google Translate app on your phone.
You will be able to easily translate signs, restaurant menus, etc. from Japanese into your language. Although English signage and menus are becoming more common, there may still be instances where you come across Japanese-only information. Being able to easily translate signs, restaurant menus, and other essential texts into your native language or a language you understand will greatly facilitate your experience, particularly if you’re not proficient in Japanese.
3. Take the trams as much as possible.
Taking trams in Nagasaki is not only a convenient way to get around but also a cost-effective option that allows you to save money while exploring the city. Nagasaki’s tram system offers extensive coverage, connecting various neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and important landmarks. By opting for trams instead of taxis, you can enjoy significant savings on transportation expenses.
4. Bring a good pair of walking shoes.
When exploring Nagasaki, it is crucial to prioritize comfortable and supportive walking shoes due to the city’s unique topography and the amount of walking involved. Nagasaki is a very hilly city, which adds a scenic charm but also means that you’ll be navigating slopes, steps, and uneven surfaces during your explorations.
