Discovering Nagasaki: A Journey Through Time and Tranquility

Tim joins David to make the case for Nagasaki as a must-add to Japan itineraries—especially while the yen is favorable. Beyond its solemn WWII history, the city blends European influence, scenic harbor views, island day trips, and incredible food. We cover the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, Dejima’s Dutch trading post, Glover Garden, a boat trip to Battleship Island, what to eat (castella and champon), where to stay (from boutique Portuguese-inspired hotels to brand-new design stays), plus nearby onsen culture and the perfect sunset finale from Mount Inasa.

Why listen:

• A practical “second-trip to Japan” alternative to Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka

• How to structure a respectful visit to the Peace Park and Museum

• Exactly where Nagasaki’s Dutch/Portuguese legacy shows up today

• What and where to eat, stay, and soak—without renting a car

What to see & do

• Nagasaki Peace Park: Begin here to understand the city’s history and commitment to peace. Pair it with the Atomic Bomb Museum for context.
• Dejima Island: Re-created streets and warehouses from Nagasaki’s Dutch-trade era.
• Oura Cathedral & Glover’s House: Rare historic church and hillside European mansions with harbor views.
• Battleship Island (Hashima): A guided boat trip to an eerie, abandoned mining island with UNESCO recognition and a Bond-film cameo.
• Mount Inasa Ropeway: Ride up at dusk for glittering harbor views.

Eat & drink

• Castella cake: Nagasaki’s signature Portuguese sponge cake.
• Champon noodles: Pork/seafood ramen unique to Nagasaki—try a local favorite near Dejima.
• Dejima Wharf & Izakaya alleys: Perfect for fresh sushi, sashimi, and casual small plates.

Where to stay

• Hotel Monterey Nagasaki: Boutique Portuguese-inspired stay with azulejo tiles and antiques.
• Glover’s House boutique hotel: A hillside retreat next to Glover Garden with breezy views and local character.
• Hotel Indigo Nagasaki: Stylish new property with architecture nodding to the city’s European heritage.
• Nearby onsen options: Obama Onsen on the coast, or Kagoshima (a Shinkansen ride away) for private in-room hot spring baths.

Responsible travel notes

• Be respectful at memorials; photography may be restricted.
• Support local businesses like castella bakeries and izakaya instead of big chains.
• At onsens: follow etiquette (rinse first, no suits, tattoos may need covering).

Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a booking or purchase. Using these links helps support the...