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Sitting on the western point of the southern island of Kyushu, Nagasaki is a little off the usual trail, but tour leader Mike Reddy gives us a few reasons as to why you should make the journey and tips on making the most of one of our favourite cities in Japan.
Nagasaki
Nagasaki is most commonly known for having an atomic bomb dropped on it at the end of the Second World War. However, this coastal city is much more than that, having been the only place in the country open to western world during its ‘Sakoku’ period of isolation. As such, influences on this Japanese city are prominent and make Nagasaki a great little place to explore with its mish-mash of cultures and modern history offering a fascinating and attractive city. If you only had 24 hours in Nagasaki, what would you do? Here’s my suggested itinerary.
Nagasaki is one of the few areas in Japan that still uses a streetcar, and it conveniently connects all of the destinations you might want to visit. As there are only several tram lines, it’s also quite simple to understand!
Nagasaki Peace Park
Take the number 3 tram north towards Urakami and the Nagasaki Peace Park. Matsuyamamachi is the closest station and there are a good number of signs; though it’s hard to miss! It’s calmest in the morning hours so the earlier you visit the better. There are no opening hours for strolling around the park, but if you’re planning for sunrise start, the nearby museum doesn’t open until 8.30am.
It is a great place to collect thoughts and think about the bomb which dropped on the 9th August 1945 and exploded 500 metres above the ground, changing this city forever. The memorial statue points to the sky where the bomb came from and the other hand reaches out for peace.
Dejima
Having had time to think, get back on the number 1 tram and get off at Dejima. ‘Dejima’ island once sat in the bay of Nagasaki, but now sits firmly landlocked in the city. The area gives you a glimpse into Nagasaki’s rich past, with reconstructed traditional houses you can walk around and even a 1/16th scale of the entire area in its former glory. This was the only place in Japan that was open to the western world for 220 years, firstly inhabited by the Portuguese and then the Dutch. The museum gives you a bit of insight into what life may have been like on this little foreign enclave in Edo Japan.
Chinatown
Nagasaki is different to other places in Japan as its foreign influences are there to see. China Town is the suggested next stop for some lunch. Go anywhere in Japan and they will know the Nagasaki speciality – Chanpon, a noodle dish, similar to ramen with creamy broth. China Town is also the place to go for those that want a good night out.
Glover Garden
Head back on the tram to another stage in Nagasaki and Japan’s history and the advance into the Meji era. The next stop is Glover Garden offering stunning views of the port and town, as well as an insight into the lifestyle of Nagasaki’s most famous western resident, Scottish industrialist, Thomas Glover. By going from Ishibashi, you can save your energy by taking the elevator to the second entrance instead of walking up the steep slope to the standard entrance. On your way back down from Glover’s house, you will pass Oura Church, which is the oldest gothic church in Japan.
If you’d like to pick something up, the standard entrance leads down a winding street filled with souvenir shops. Grab some castella, or カステラ, a delicious dessert that is similar to a sponge cake and another specialty of the city.
Dejima Wharf
Make your way back to the Dejima and take a look to your left. The Dejima Wharf area has several restaurants that are pleasant in the warmer months. You can’t go wrong ordering seafood in Nagasaki!
Just next to Dejima Wharf is the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum. Stop in to enjoy some coffee and relax for a bit; you earned it! Dejima Wharf is an attractive option for dinner in the warmer months, though it’s just as nice in the winter months.
The observatory at Mt. Inasa
When the sun sets, there is only one place to go; the observatory from 333 metre high Mt. Inasa. The view from above is beautiful and one of the top views in Japan. This is a great place to see the city as a whole and think about the incredible history and the things that this city has seen over the centuries.
The trams will get you close, but you would still need to walk for about 10-15 minutes from the nearest stop. Taxi is the way to go here!
Once you’ve taken in the sights, head on back to China Town or one of our favourite bars in Japan. You will have to ask us about that one.
As you leave beautiful Nagasaki, take the Seaside Liner for one of the most enjoyable coastal journeys you will have. The perfect way to leave this beautiful city.