Overview Well known for being the target of a nuclear bomb during World War II (in 1945), Nagasaki is one of Japan's most famous cities. This hilly city is located along a bay on the Japanese island of Kyushu.
Nagasaki is quite historic, as it was founded before 1500. It was not until the mid 16th century that Europeans (the Portuguese) visited this area of the world. As time passed what was once a little harbor village turned into a thriving port city. For about 200 years Japan closed all of its ports to the outside world, except for Nagasaki. This made Nagasaki Japan's "window" to the outside world.
Nagasaki was once, prior to the bombings, a major base for the Imperial Japanese Navy. Today it's a beautiful city that has been completely rebuilt, and once again is a busy cosmopolitan port city that's well known in Japan for its festivals.
Destinations Nagasaki is included on several Asia cruise itineraries.
Cruise Lines Departing Here
Nagasaki is not a cruise departure port.
Currency The official currency of Japan is the Yen (¥). Using a credit card whenever possible is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using.
Language The official language of Japan is Japanese. English is spoken by many locals in the main tourist areas and hotels.
Tourist Attractions Some of the rubble from the atomic bombing of 1945 was left as a memorial. Among such preserved structures is a one-legged torii gate. There were also new structures built in memory of those that were lost, including the Atomic Bomb Museum. This museum is located at 7-8 Hirano-machi. Located next to this museum is the Nagasaki International Peace Memorial Hall, built in tribute to atomic bomb victims.
Nagasaki Peace Park, established in 1955, is a park that commemorates the atomic bombing of 1945. It's located near the hypocenter of the explosion. The famous Peace Statue is located in the north end of the park. There's an annual memorial ceremony held at this location on every August 9th.
Oura Church, also known as the Chruch of the 26 Japanese Martyrs, is a Catholic church that's the only western-style building in Japan that has been declared a national treasure. It's known as being the oldest church in Japan (dating back to the 1860s).
Meganebaski, also known as Spectacles Bridge, is known as being the oldest stone arch bridge in Japan (built in 1634).
Confucius Shrine in Nagasaki is said to be the world's only Chinese-built Confucian shrine that's located outside of China. There are 72 statues located on the outside of this shrine, representing the 72 followers of Confucius.
Suwa Shrine (built in 1614) is the major Shinto shrine of Nagasaki. It's located in the northern part of the city and has a beautiful 277-step stone staircase leading up the mountain that it was built on (Mount Tamazono-san), to various locations within the shrine's property.
For those looking to shop in Nagasaki, feel free to check out the You-me Plaza, the AMYU Plaza and the Hamano-machi Shopping Arcade.
Port Location The Port of Nagasaki is located very close to town, within walking distance of many tourist attractions. Taxis are available throughout the city.
