Most commonly associated with its devastating WWII past, Nagasaki is a fascinating city with a far more multi-layered history than most visitors anticipate. Now a thriving modern metropolis, it's a popular business destination as well as a holiday spot for culture-minded visitors or families bound for the quirky nearby Huis Ten Bosch theme park. Accommodation options tend to be located within the city centre or close to the amusement park, with many of the best places to stay in Nagasaki offering flexible options for couples, friends or families.

Set on the western side of Kyushu, Nagasaki was originally a small port town with a long history of international trade. The Portuguese arrived in 1543, followed by the Dutch and the English. The 17th-century Great Fire of Nagasaki destroyed much of the city, but it recovered to become an important point of connection between Japan and the outside world. You’ll find this history reflected at Dejima Museum, the Oura Catholic Church and the Urakami Cathedral. To understand the traumatic impact and aftermath of the events of 9th August 1945, visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the nearby Nagasaki Peace Park.

Outdoorsy travellers can hike up Mount Inasa for striking views of the city and coastline, stroll through scenic Nabekanmuriyama Park or Glover House & Garden, and cycle around Omura Bay. Big days out at the Huis Ten Bosch theme park, with its life-sized copies of old Dutch buildings, come highly recommended. Some of the best places to stay in Nagasaki are set along the river and leafy gardens of the park itself.

The Best Places to Stay in Nagasaki

For a City Stay

• JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki is a smart, affordable hotel next to the train station and the Amu Plaza Nagasaki Shopping Mall. Pick this place for the excellent prices and comfortable, cosy rooms. A great city base for business or leisure.
• Hotel New Nagasaki offers sleek interiors, with both Western and Japanese-style rooms. Feast on Chinese, Japanese and Western cuisine at three elegant restaurants. Meeting rooms and a business centre make this a top spot for a work trip.
• Hotel Monterey Nagasaki showcases the city's long Portuguese influence. The building and interiors were inspired by classic Portuguese style, with antique pieces and decorative tiling. The Italian courtyard restaurant is superb. Another central choice for couples, friends or families.

For a Theme Park Escape

• Hotel Nikko Huis Ten Bosch is an enormous property at the gates of the Huis Ten Bosch theme park. Expect classic rooms with space for families, great restaurants and a buzzy karaoke bar. Very good fun.
• Watermark Hotel Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch is a grand, waterfront hotel with European-inspired decor, including big sash windows, parquet flooring and chandeliers. Pick this place for its marina views and proximity to the theme park.
• Huis Ten Bosch Forest Villa offers two-bedroom cottages set on the banks of a peaceful canal inside the Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park. Surrounded by flower-filled gardens, these cosy villas have pretty chintz-patterned interiors, waterfront views and sitting rooms for relaxing with family and friends. There's a good restaurant onsite. Idyllic.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Tokyo's Haneda Airport or Narita Airport to catch a connecting flight to Nagasaki Airport. Travel 40 minutes to the city centre by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up.
• You may want to drive if you're exploring Kyushu independently. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn for the warmest weather, with temperatures of 23 - 30°C. May and September are cooler and quieter.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kyushu.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nagasaki