About Nagasaki
Nagasaki Prefecture, located on Japan's southwestern island of Kyushu, offers a captivating blend of poignant history, international heritage, and stunning natural beauty. As Japan's historic gateway to the world during its period of isolation, Nagasaki boasts a unique cultural tapestry woven from Portuguese, Dutch, and Chinese influences. Visitors are drawn to the profound peace of the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, memorials to the city's tragic past that advocate for a hopeful future. Beyond the city, the prefecture unfolds with dramatic landscapes: the volcanic marvel of Unzen-Amakusa National Park with its hot springs and 'jigoku' (hells), the picturesque Goto Islands with their hidden Christian heritage sites, and the charming European-style enclave of Glover Garden overlooking the harbor. Savor Nagasaki's famous culinary specialties like champon noodles, castella sponge cake, and fresh seafood. From the vibrant lantern festival to the tranquil beauty of its remote islands, Nagasaki presents a deeply moving and uniquely cosmopolitan Japanese experience.
Things to do in Nagasaki
Traditional Kimono Experience in Nagasaki
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Nagasaki Highlights Private Half Day Tour by Tram
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Semi Private Guided Tour of Nagasaki.
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
From GHS 1,319
5.0 (18)
Tour Fukuoka or Nagasaki in Privacy and Comfort.
Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture
From GHS 7,149
5.0 (17)
Nagasaki City and Shimabara Highlights Tour
Tokyo, Kanto
From GHS 7,149
5.0 (16)
Nagasaki Private Historical Tour with Licensed Guide
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
From GHS 3,931
5.0 (13)
Cats & Hidden Alleyways: a Kitty-themed Walking Tour in Nagasaki
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
From GHS 644
5.0 (11)
Nagasaki Highlights Private Full Day Tour by Car
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Nagasaki Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Best of Nagasaki with Japanese Tea Ceremony 4 hours Car Tour
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
From GHS 2,346
5.0 (6)
Best of Nagasaki with Japanese Tea Ceremony 6 hours Car Tour
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) to Tokyo hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer
Tokyo, Kanto
Mount Fuji Private Tour By Car With Pick Up From Tokyo
Tokyo, Kanto
From GHS 4,905
5.0 (5)
Nagasaki Full Day Private Tour with a Local
Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture
From GHS 1,966
5.0 (4)Travel Tips for Nagasaki
Getting Around
Within Nagasaki City, trams (streetcars) are the most convenient and charming way to visit major sites. Purchase a one-day tram pass for unlimited rides. Buses connect the city to suburbs and other towns. For exploring the wider prefecture and islands, trains (JR lines) and ferries are essential. Renting a car is highly recommended for visiting Unzen, Shimabara, and the Goto Islands, offering maximum flexibility. Taxis are plentiful but expensive. Useful apps include Google Maps, Japan Travel by Navitime, and local bus/tram schedule apps.
Best Time To Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) are ideal. Spring offers mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly at places like Peace Park. Autumn features comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for hiking. Summer (June to September) is hot, humid, and rainy (typhoon season), but features vibrant festivals like the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in October. Winter is mild but can be chilly.
Local Customs
Standard Japanese etiquette applies. Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some temples. Be respectful and quiet at peace memorial sites. Tipping is not customary and can cause confusion; excellent service is standard. When using public baths (onsen), wash thoroughly before entering the bath and do not wear swimsuits. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Bowing is the common greeting. It is polite to say "itadakimasu" before eating and "gochisosama deshita" after.
Safety Information
Nagasaki is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded tourist areas like Nagasaki Station and Dejima Wharf. The city and prefecture are seismically active; familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures. When hiking in Unzen or remote areas, stay on marked trails due to volcanic activity and potential for getting lost. Be cautious of strong currents when swimming at beaches. Scams targeting tourists are rare. The main city is safe to walk at night.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Nagasaki City are excellent, with major hospitals like Nagasaki University Hospital and Nagasaki Medical Center. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine travel vaccines. Tap water is safe to drink. Be aware of heat and humidity in summer; stay hydrated. In remote islands, medical services may be limited. Travelers with prescriptions should bring adequate supplies and a copy of their prescription. Japan has a national health insurance system for residents; tourists should have comprehensive travel insurance.
Languages Spoken
Japanese
Quick Facts
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
¥
¥
Timezone
Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+81
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
1.3 million
Area
4130 km²
Government
Prefectural government with an elected governor and assembly
ISO Code
42