Nagasaki 2 Day Itinerary: What to See and Do
Nagasaki is one of Japan's most historically significant cities, offering visitors a unique blend of Japanese and international culture. Nestled on the western coast of Kyushu, this port city has a fascinating story shaped by centuries of trade, tragedy, and resilience.
If you're planning a weekend trip to Nagasaki, this two-day itinerary will help you experience the best of what this remarkable city has to offer.
Day 1: Historical Nagasaki and Peace Memorial
Morning: Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum
Start your first day at the Nagasaki Peace Park, located at the epicenter of where the atomic bomb fell on August 9, 1945. The park features the iconic Peace Statue, a 10-meter tall blue figure with one hand pointing to the sky (representing the threat of nuclear weapons) and the other extended horizontally (symbolizing peace).
Take time to walk through the park and read the monuments donated by countries around the world, each carrying messages of peace and hope.
Right next to Peace Park, you'll find the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. This museum offers a sobering but essential look at the events of that tragic day and the aftermath. The exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories from survivors.
While emotionally heavy, the museum ends on a hopeful note with displays about nuclear disarmament efforts and peace education. Plan to spend about 90 minutes here. The museum opens at 8:30 AM, and arriving early helps you avoid crowds and gives you quiet time for reflection.
Late Morning: Urakami Cathedral
A short walk from the Peace Park brings you to Urakami Cathedral, originally built in 1914 and rebuilt after being destroyed by the atomic bomb. This red-brick Catholic church stands as a symbol of Nagasaki's Christian heritage and the resilience of its faith community.
The cathedral's history connects to Nagasaki's hidden Christians who practiced their faith in secret during centuries of persecution. Inside, you can see relics from the original cathedral and stained glass windows that tell the story of Christianity in Japan.
Lunch: Nagasaki Champon
By now you'll be ready for lunch, and there's no better way to experience Nagasaki's culinary heritage than with a bowl of champon. This hearty noodle soup was invented in Nagasaki and reflects the city's Chinese influences.
The thick noodles are cooked directly in a rich, milky broth with pork, seafood, and vegetables. Head to Shikairō, the restaurant where champon was created in 1899, or try Kouraku, another local favorite. Both restaurants serve generous portions that will fuel you for the afternoon ahead.
Afternoon: Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral
Take a tram or short taxi ride down to the Glover Garden area in the southern part of the city. This open-air museum sits on a hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor and features beautifully preserved Western-style houses from the Meiji era.
The garden is named after Thomas Glover, a Scottish merchant who played a significant role in Japan's modernization. As you wander through the escalator-connected pathways, you'll pass through the former homes of foreign traders, each filled with period furniture and exhibits about international life in 19th-century Nagasaki. The views from the top are spectacular, especially on clear days when you can see across the entire harbor.
Walking down from Glover Garden takes you directly to Oura Cathedral, Japan's oldest surviving Christian church and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1864 by French missionaries, this Gothic-style church features beautiful stained glass windows and played a crucial role in the rediscovery of hidden Christians in Nagasaki.
Evening: Dinner at Chinatown
Nagasaki's Chinatown, called Shinchi Chinatown, is the oldest of its kind in Japan. While smaller than those in Yokohama or Kobe, it's packed with atmosphere and excellent restaurants. For dinner, try sara udon, another Nagasaki specialty featuring crispy fried noodles topped with a thick, savory sauce loaded with seafood and vegetables.
Alternatively, sample Nagasaki's famous kakuni manju, sweet steamed buns filled with melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly that reflects the city's Chinese culinary influence.
After dinner, take a stroll along the nearby waterfront or explore the Hamano-machi shopping arcade if you're interested in picking up souvenirs or experiencing local nightlife. Many visitors enjoy joining an evening food tour in Nagasaki to discover hidden local restaurants and learn more about Nagasaki's unique food culture from knowledgeable guides.
Day 2: Islands, Views, and Cultural Exploration
Morning: Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) Tour
On your second day, dedicate your morning to one of Nagasaki's most unique attractions. Gunkanjima, officially called Hashima Island, is an abandoned coal mining island that looks like a battleship from a distance.
This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the most densely populated place on earth before being abandoned in 1974 when the coal mines closed. The island's concrete ruins offer a haunting glimpse into Japan's rapid industrialization period.
Several companies operate boat tours to Gunkanjima, typically departing in the morning around 9 or 10 AM. The tour includes a cruise around the island with landing time to walk designated paths and view the deteriorating apartment blocks, schools, and infrastructure.
Be aware that landings depend on weather conditions, as the island is quite exposed. Even if you can't land, the boat tour provides excellent photo opportunities and detailed audio commentary about the island's history.
Late Morning/Lunch: Mount Inasa
After returning from Gunkanjima, head to Mount Inasa for lunch and spectacular daytime views. You can reach the summit by ropeway, which offers a scenic five-minute ride up the mountain.
At the top, you'll find observation decks with 360-degree views of Nagasaki city, the harbor, and surrounding mountains. While Mount Inasa is famous for its night views (rated among Japan's top three), the daytime perspective is equally impressive and helps you understand Nagasaki's unique geography, nestled among hills and water.
The mountaintop has a restaurant where you can grab lunch while enjoying the panoramic scenery. The menu features both Japanese and Western options, though the food is secondary to the incredible setting.
Afternoon: Dejima and Dutch History
Descend from Mount Inasa and make your way to Dejima, a fan-shaped artificial island that served as Japan's only window to the Western world for over 200 years of isolation. Dutch traders were confined to this tiny island from 1641 to 1859, conducting trade under strict regulations. Today, Dejima has been carefully reconstructed to show what life was like during this unique period in history.
Walking through Dejima feels like stepping back in time. You can explore recreated Dutch merchants' houses, warehouses, and trade offices, many with costumed interpreters demonstrating crafts and daily activities.
The exhibits explain the complex relationship between Japan and the Netherlands during the isolation period and how ideas, goods, and knowledge flowed through this single point of contact. Plan to spend about 90 minutes exploring the island and its museum.
Late Afternoon: Megane Bridge and Downtown
From Dejima, it's an easy walk to Megane Bridge, Nagasaki's most photographed bridge. Built in 1634, this double-arched stone bridge gets its name from its reflection in the water, which looks like a pair of spectacles (megane in Japanese).
The bridge spans the Nakashima River in a charming area perfect for an afternoon stroll. Along the riverbanks, you'll find several other historic bridges, stone pathways, and quiet spots perfect for resting your feet.
This area also features small cafes where you can try Nagasaki's famous kasutera (castella cake), a Portuguese-influenced sponge cake that's been made in Nagasaki for over 400 years. Fukusaya, with its main shop downtown, is the most famous maker, producing light, fluffy cakes with a perfect golden crust.
Evening: Dinner and Night Views
For your final evening, return to Mount Inasa just before sunset to experience the night views that Nagasaki is famous for. The city lights spreading across the dark hills and reflecting on the harbor create a sparkling panorama that rivals any in Japan. The ropeway runs until 10 PM, so you can time your visit to watch the sunset and see the transformation as night falls.
After soaking in the views, head back downtown for a farewell dinner. If you haven't tried it yet, order toruko rice (Turkish rice), a quirky Nagasaki dish that combines tonkatsu, pilaf, and Neapolitan spaghetti on one plate, topped with demi-glace sauce.
Where to Stay in Nagasaki
Staying near Nagasaki Station or in the downtown area around Hamano-machi gives you easy access to trams and restaurants. The area around Glover Garden offers beautiful harbor views but requires more travel to reach northern sites like the Peace Park. Many hotels offer views of Nagasaki's distinctive hillside scenery, making even your accommodation part of the experience.
Discover the vibrant heart of Nagasaki in a 3-hour personalized walking tour led by a local guide. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and modern culture, visiting iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Connecting Nagasaki with Other Destinations
Nagasaki works wonderfully as part of a broader Kyushu exploration. The city is well-connected by train to Fukuoka (about 2 hours by limited express), making it easy to combine with Japan's northern Kyushu attractions.
Many travelers also visit nearby Kumamoto, known for its impressive castle, or head south to Kagoshima with its active volcano. Consider joining a multi-day Kyushu tour if you want to see more of the island without the hassle of planning transportation and accommodations yourself.
Some visitors also take day trips from Nagasaki to the beautiful Unzen hot springs area or explore the Shimabara Peninsula. These destinations offer natural beauty and traditional hot spring experiences that complement Nagasaki's urban attractions nicely.
