Things to do in Nagasaki (Kyushu, Japan)

Nagasaki, a scenic port city on Kyushu Island, played a pivotal role as a key international trading port during the 16th century, blending Japanese and Western cultures. It is also known for its tragic World War II history as the second city hit by an atomic bomb, commemorated at the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Visitors can explore its unique cultural heritage while reflecting on its profound past. Join us while we explore the top things to do in Nagasaki.

Date visited: Nov-2023

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A city rich in history and natural beauty

Located on the western coast of Japan’s Kyushu Island, Nagasaki is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As one of Japan’s key international trading ports during the 16th century, it has a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European influences, especially from the Portuguese and Dutch who settled here.

The city is best known for its tragic role in World War II as the second city to experience the devastating effects of an atomic bomb. An event commemorated at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. Despite its sombre history, Nagasaki has become a vibrant, resilient city that embraces peace and harmony. It offer visitors a chance to explore its poignant past while enjoying its scenic harbour, lush hills, and cultural landmarks like the Oura Church, Glover Garden, and Chinatown.

Nagasaki’s unique geography, with its natural harbour surrounded by mountains, gives it a striking landscape, making it a top destination for travellers seeking history and scenic beauty.

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Top Things to do in Nagasaki

1: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum (長崎原爆資料館)(Google Map)

The museum is dedicated to commemorating the tragic events of August 9, 1945, when an atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki during the closing days of World War II. It serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear weapons and advocates for global peace and nuclear disarmament.

2: Hypocenter Park (爆心地公園)(Google Map)

The park marks the exact spot beneath where the atomic bomb detonated in 1945. It is adjacent to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.

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3: Peace Park Nagasaki (長崎平和公園)(Google Map)

Located near Hypocenter Park and the atomic bomb museum, Peace Park Nagasaki is a serene and symbolic space dedicated to promoting world peace and commemorating the victims of the nuclear bombing.

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4: Suwa Shrine (諏訪神社)(Google Map)

A 17th-century shrine reached via a 277-step stone staircase, Suwa Shrine is one of Nagasaki’s most important and historic Shinto shrines. The shrine sits atop a hill overlooking Nagasaki and has been a central place of worship and community gatherings for centuries.

It was founded in 1614 during a period when the Tokugawa Shogunate was actively suppressing Christianity in Japan, especially in Nagasaki, which was a center of Christian activity. The shrine was established to promote Shinto beliefs and offer a place of worship for Japanese locals who were encouraged to return to traditional religious practices.

Suwa Shrine is one of Nagasaki’s most important and historic Shinto shrines

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5: Inasa-yama Park (稲佐山公園)(Google Map)

Beautiful park located on the slopes of Mount Inasa.

6: Mt. Inasayama Observatory (稲佐山山頂展望台)(Google Map)

Widely recognised as one of Japan’s top three night views (city views). Mount Inasa is a 333m high mountain close to Nagasaki’s city centre.

Visitors can take a ropeway up to the summit. For those driving, there is an option to drive up to the summit (paid parking) or to a free parking area (Inasa-yama Park) near the summit. From the free parking area, simply walk 15-minutes up to the summit, or take a paid monorail service.