Inasayama Summit Observatory

Mount Inasayama Observatory stands at 333 meters above sea level on a hill west of Nagasaki's city center, serving as one of Japan's premier observation points. The summit houses several television and radio antennas alongside the main observation deck with restaurant facilities, making it both a telecommunications hub and tourist destination.

The observatory gained international recognition when its "10 Million Dollar Night View" was selected as one of "the new top three nightscapes in the world" during the Nightscape Summit 2021 in Nagasaki, alongside Monaco and Shanghai. Previously, it was chosen among the world's new top three night views at the 2012 Night View Summit, joining Hong Kong and Monaco. The location also holds the distinction of being recognized as one of "Japan's Top 100 Most Beautiful Moon Views" and designated as a "Night View Heritage of Japan".

From the observatory's 360-degree viewing platform, visitors can observe panoramic vistas of Nagasaki Bay and the surrounding cityscape. On clear days, the views extend to Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa and Goto Islands. The observatory consists of a circular building housing a restaurant and elevator providing easy access to the rooftop viewing area. Evening illumination on the observatory floor creates a romantic atmosphere that complements the famous night views.

Visitors can reach the summit through multiple transportation options. The Nagasaki Ropeway operates gondolas every 15-20 minutes from 9:00 to 22:00, with the five-minute ride costing ¥1,250 round trip. The newer Nagasaki Inasayama Slope Car offers a more economical alternative at ¥500 round trip for adults. Bus number 5 runs directly from Nagasaki Station to Mount Inasa, requiring a 15-minute climb to the summit. Taxi services from JR Nagasaki Station cost approximately ¥2,200 one way and take about 15 minutes.

Observatory access itself is free, with costs only applying to transportation methods. Ropeway fares are ¥1,250 for general admission, ¥940 for middle/high school students, and ¥620 for elementary students (round trip). The slope car costs ¥500 for adults, ¥370 for middle/high school students, and ¥250 for elementary students and toddlers (round trip). The closest major station is Nagasaki Station, which serves as the primary access point for all transportation options to the observatory.