Exploring Nagasaki & Surrounds.

#Nagasaki.

Located on a natural Harbour and surrounded by spectacular mountainous scenery, Nagasaki is packed with photo-worthy opportunities. Featuring a mix of stunning gardens, historic buildings, unique shrines, and an abundance of incredible viewpoints, the city of Nagasaki offers much beyond just its painful history.

Highlights: Glover Garden, Dutch Slope, Nagasaki Seaside Park (pictured), Shinchi Chinatown, Megane Bridge, Kofukuji, Wakamiya Inari Shrine (viewing point), Suwa Shrine, Fukusaiji (viewing point), The Sanno Shrine One-Legged Torii Gate, Peace Park, Mirador Tenshudo (viewing point), and Urakami Cathedral.

#Day Trips from Nagasaki.

1. Shimabara.

Shimabara Bukeyashiki (Samurai residence street), Shimabara

Whether it be to take in the views from the castle, peak inside the historic Samurai Houses, or just Koi spotting in the narrow canals that run through the streets, a day trip to the city of Shimabara is sure to be an enjoyable experience.

Journey Duration: The Shinkansen will take just under 10 minutes from Nagasaki to Isahaya. From Isahaya Shimabara Line Trains go on to Shimabara, taking just over an hour.
Highlights - Shimabara: Koi no oyogu Machi Dori, Shimabara 3 Shiba Inu, Shimabara Castle, Shimabara Bukeyashika (Samurai Residence Street - pictured), Takeshima Shrine, Yutorogi Foot Bath, Yuusui-Teien Shimeiso (garden), and Nehan Statue.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is only valid for travel between Nagasaki and Isahaya. For travel on the Shimabara Railway, a separate ticket will need to be purchased before boarding. Note: at the time of writing, IC cards can not be used on the Shimabara Railway.
Bonus Tip: Be sure to bring along some cash to purchase a ticket for the Shimabara Railway.

2. Isahaya.

The City of Isahaya can be reached within 10 minutes from Nagasaki and is home to some lovely temples and shrines, many of which are set in tranquil parkland.

Journey Duration: A Shinkansen from Nagasaki will take just under 10 minutes to reach Isahaya Station.
Highlights - Isahaya: Isahaya Shrine, Isahaya Park and Megane Bridge of Isahaya (pictured), Takashiro Shrine, Joyama Park Square, Joyama Observation Deck, and Mitachiyama Inari Shrine.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass can be used on this journey.
Bonus Tip: The walk from Joyama Observation Deck to the Mitachiyama Inari Shrine is somewhat lengthy, consider stopping in at Cake Factory Kanade for a delicious pick-me-up along the way.