Events in Nagasaki
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Contents
Nagasaki is a fascinating place where foreign cultures and Japan’s history come together.
In areas like Glover Garden and Oranda-zaka (Dutch Slope), you’ll see a townscape strongly influenced by Western architecture. You can also dive into the history of World War II at Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, which help deepen our understanding of peace and its importance.
Nagasaki has a deep connection to the history of Christianity in Japan. The Oura Church, built in 1864, is Japan’s oldest surviving Christian church and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Additionally, places like Tsukumo Islands and Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) offer stunning natural beauty alongside fascinating historical significance.
Don’t forget to try local specialties like Nagasaki Champon (a delicious noodle dish) and Castella (a sponge cake) while you’re exploring the city.
Experience a unique journey where history, culture, and nature beautifully come together in Nagasaki, and create lasting memories along the way.
PickUp Nagasaki Events
Nagasaki Lantern Festival
The “Nagasaki Lantern Festival” is an event held annually in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, during the Lunar New Year period (late January to mid-February). It started as a celebration of China’s Lunar New Year, “Chūn Jié” (Spring Festival), by the people of Nagasaki’s Shinchi Chinatown. Today, around 15,000 lanterns illuminate the city, creating a magical atmosphere. The main venues for the festival are Chinatown, Minato Park, and the Shinchi Bridge area. Visitors can enjoy various events showcasing Chinese culture, such as dragon dances and performances with the erhu (a traditional Chinese instrument). This festival, with its exotic charm and beautiful lighting displays, is one of the signature winter attractions in Nagasaki.
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A musical tour exploring Nagasaki through songs.
Discover and Enjoy Nagasaki! A Guide to Must-Visit Spots & Topics.
Megane Bridge
The “Megane Bridge” is a stone arch bridge that spans the Nakashima River in Nagasaki City. It was built in 1634 by the Zen master Mokushi Jodō of Kōfuku-ji Temple. The bridge got its name because its reflection in the water looks like a pair of glasses. It’s considered one of Japan’s three famous bridges and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. Around the bridge, there are heart-shaped stones embedded in the riverbank, known as “Heart Stones,” which are believed to be a power spot for love and relationships.
Glover Garden
Glover Garden is a charming tourist spot located on a hill in the Minami-Yamate area of Nagasaki. It’s home to several Western-style buildings, such as the “Old Glover Residence,” “Old Ringer Residence,” and “Old Orto Residence,” all of which are designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. These buildings reflect the history of Nagasaki and its cultural exchanges during the late Edo and Meiji periods. The garden also offers a fantastic view of Nagasaki Port and Mount Inasa, making it a perfect place to enjoy both history and stunning scenery.
Huis Ten Bosch
Located in Sasebo City, Huis Ten Bosch is a theme park built around the concept of creating a town. It recreates the streets and port townscapes of the Netherlands. The park features canals and showcases flowers in full bloom throughout the year, reflecting the beauty of each season. With a variety of attractions, shows, and museums, it’s a spot where you can enjoy yourself all day long.
Shimabara Castle
Shimabara Castle is located in Shimabara City and was built over a span of seven years, starting in 1618. The castle is famous for its striking white five-story keep and has strong ties to Christian culture. It is currently open as a museum, showcasing Christian artifacts and local history. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Shimabara City, the Ariake Sea, and Mount Mayuyama from the observation deck at the top of the keep. Shimabara Castle is a popular spot for history enthusiasts.
Dejima
“Dejima” is an artificial island built in Nagasaki in 1636, which served as Japan’s only gateway to Europe for over 200 years. Today, 16 buildings have been restored to their original state, and in 2017, the Dejima Front Gate Bridge was completed, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of that time. Inside, you can find exhibits showcasing life during the Edo period and various excavation materials, making it a great spot to learn about history.
Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell)
“Unzen Hell” is a famous spot in Unzen Onsen, where the air is filled with the strong scent of sulfur. The sight of hot steam and heat erupting from the ground, engulfing the area, truly resembles something out of a hellish scene. It’s also known as the site of Christian martyrdom, with a memorial monument dedicated to those who suffered. You can explore the area on foot thanks to the well-maintained walking paths.
Peace Park
Nagasaki’s “Peace Park” was established in 1950 to honor the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945 and to wish for world peace. The Peace Memorial Statue within the park symbolizes both the threat of the atomic bomb and the hope for peace, while the Fountain of Peace was built to remember those who died searching for water. Every year on August 9th, a Peace Memorial Ceremony is held to mark the occasion.
Sasebo & Kujukushima (Ninety-Nine Islands)
“Tsukushi Islands” are a group of 208 islands located along the western coast of the Kitamatsuura Peninsula. The density of these islands is considered the highest in Japan. Recognized as a member of the ‘Most Beautiful Bays in the World Club,’ their scenic beauty is highly regarded worldwide. The ‘Eight Views of Tsukushi Islands’ offer breathtaking views that vary depending on the location.
Ikeshima Coal Mine
Ikejima Coal Mine, located on Ikejima Island, was the last coal mine in Kyushu to remain in operation until 2001. Even after its closure, a coal mine experience tour is still held, where visitors can ride an electric trolley through the tunnels. The tour is guided by former miners, and guests can try out simulated mining machine operations.
Goto Islands
The Goto Islands are an archipelago made up of around 140 islands, both large and small. It’s a region known for its abundant natural beauty, with highlights like Takahama Beach and Mount Oni. The islands also have a deep connection to the history of Christianity in Nagasaki, making places like the Ōzaki Cathedral and Egami Church must-visit spots, as they are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
List of Inbound-Friendly Taxi Companies in Nagasaki
Nagasaki Lucky Taxi Group
n preparation for the growing demand from inbound tourism, Nagasaki Lucky Taxi Group is conducting monitor tours for international visitors to refine and develop various taxi tour experiences.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・×
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・×
Sasebo Lucky Group
Supports communication using devices capable of translating into English, Chinese, Korean, and Thai.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・◯
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・◯
- This content introduces taxi companies based on inbound-friendly information available online. However, the availability and details of services may vary depending on when the information was released.
- The GO app’s dispatch service may not support special services such as sightseeing taxis. If you are planning to use a taxi for tourism purposes, please contact the respective taxi company in advance.
- This website does not handle taxi reservations or arrangements. For detailed service information and the latest availability, please contact each taxi company directly.