Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Nagasaki?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Nagasaki?

Many travelers spend two to three days in Nagasaki during their visit. After all, the interesting city has plenty to explore such as the famous sights and museums, the restaurant scene, and the nightlife scene.

Nagasaki is set against a natural harbor and surrounded by hills. Many people associated the city with the nuclear attack during World War II. Today there is a moving memorial - the Peace Park - that is dedicated to those lost during the attack.

Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Nagasaki? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.

Is 3 days enough time in Nagasaki?

Many visitors choose to spend around three days in Nagasaki. This would give you the chance to experience this medium-sized city's highlights such as the famous sights and museums, the restaurant scene, and the nightlife scene. Since many visitors prefer to spend around two to three days here, we have a few suggestions of things to do in the interesting city.

How to spend 3 days in Nagasaki

Don't miss the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum during your trip to Nagasaki, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

The public transit in Nagasaki is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Nagasaki, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

A few tour suggestions include:

Gunkanjima Digital Museum Attraction Ticket ($12)

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Nagasaki is large enough to spend at least a full day exploring the local neighborhoods, attractions, and activities found around town. It's a relatively large city with parks, gardens, and museums to explore.

A few tour suggestions include:

Private Transfer - Nagasaki Airport (NGS) to Nagasaki Cruise Port ($52)
Private Transfer from Nagasaki Cruise Port to Nagasaki Airport ($52)
Private Transfer from Nagasaki Cruise Port to Nagasaki Hotels ($62)

There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Nagasaki.

Is 4 days enough time in Nagasaki?

Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Nagasaki has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend two to three days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the famous sights and museums, the restaurant scene, the nightlife scene, and the big city activities at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.

Nagasaki, Japan (©Sue Ann Simon/©JNTO)

How to spend 4 days in Nagasaki

With 4 days in Nagasaki, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.

Shopping in Nagasaki is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

Is 5 days enough time in Nagasaki?

Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Nagasaki, as it's not as large as some other cities. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. Wander through the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, take advantage of the local nightlife, and enjoy the city's energy. You could also use Nagasaki as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.

How to spend 5 days in Nagasaki

If you have more than 5 days in Nagasaki, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the city has to offer.

After you've explored most of Nagasaki, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Nagasaki, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.