Located on the west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki Prefecture is relatively small. It consists of hundreds of islands surrounded by the sea. Due to its unique location and the ancient history of the city of Nagasaki, which is a vital port of Japan, this area is extremely interesting in contrasts in cultural, architectural and geographical aspects. Here are ten interesting places and activities (in no particular order) that await you in Nagasaki Prefecture.
Cruise and Walking Tour of Gunkanjima
Officially known as Hashima, since 1890 Gunkanjima has prospered from the coal mining community. “Gunkanjima” means “Battleship Island” in Japanese, and the island gets its name from the densely packed battleship-like buildings. The coal mine closed in 1974 and the island has been empty ever since. Gunkanjima is now a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. Gunkanjima was used as a set for the movie Attack on Titan and the image of the Dead City from the movie Skyfall. You can cruise around this enigmatic island, as well as disembark and explore the ruins on foot.
Lumina Island
Lumina Island in Nagasaki city seamlessly combines fantasy world and modern technology, creating an unforgettable night outing for all ages.
If you’ve ever dreamed of saving the world, this is your chance! Lumina Island was shrouded in darkness after a dragon stole an enchanted gem from the sky. A heroine named Yura has found a way to bring back the light, but she needs your help. Join the search in the island’s mysterious forest interactively using projection display and creative lighting.
Biopark Nagasaki
The Nagasaki Biopark is nothing like a regular zoo. Animals there live in open enclosures, reminiscent of the natural habitat of each species. Visitors to the Biopark are allowed to enter the enclosures and feed the animals: lemurs, squirrel monkeys, meerkats and capybaras. Capybaras are especially popular in Japan, and there are about 20 of them in the park. Since the animals are free, being in an enclosure may seem dangerous, but it provides a unique opportunity to observe the behavior of animals up close. Please note that animals have places to hide if they feel stressed or just want to relax in silence.
Just an hour’s drive from Nagasaki or Sasebo, the Yukinoura Beach Store offers SUP courses in the crystal clear waters along Yukinoura Beach in Saikai City. The course is open even to beginners and the only thing you need to bring is swimming clothes and a towel. There are different courses, depending on your experience. The courses last two hours and are available at any time of the year, except on days with dangerous weather conditions for swimming. If you don’t like stand-up surfing, you can choose a regular surfing course.
Hirado Olle Walking Course
In the 1600s, the city of Hirado was known as the “Capital of the West” because it traded with Portugal and the Netherlands since the 1500s. The 13 km Hirado Olle Hiking Trail starts from the Hirado Bus and Ferry Terminal and takes you through breathtaking views of the island. Main attractions: Kavachi Pass, which offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area and the surrounding islands; view of the Christian church, Japanese temples and Saikeji pagoda. The trail is suitable for both experienced hikers and ordinary untrained people. The whole journey takes 4-5 hours.
Yacht Cruise Kujikushima
Kujukushima is a group of islands located in the Saikai National Park, Sasebo. The name literally means “Ninety-nine Islands”. The word “kujuku” is often used to describe a lot of things, and it is said that there are actually two hundred and eight islands! The best way to explore the area is to join one of the many tours offered at the Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort, such as boat tours, sailing, relaxing cruises and kayaking. The best way to enjoy the stunning sunset view of the Kujukushima Islands is to take a cruise from the “Pearl of Kujukushima”.
