Getting Around Nagasaki

For a city built on the rolling hills of a mountain, Nagasaki’s central area and most of its touristic districts are on level land. This area stretches from north to south almost on a straight line bordering the Urakami River and eventually bordering the east side of the harbour. The city’s size and layout make it walkable and bike friendly, and there are parts of the city that can be discovered this way. However, the city boasts an awesome tram system that runs efficiently, is super tourist friendly, and will get you across the city in no time and without barely any hassle.

Overall, Nagasaki’s infrastructure is tourist friendly and its tram system even more so. From the moment you step onto the open-concept platforms to board the streetcars to the time you get off at your destination, clear signs in English give detailed instructions not only on how to ride the system, but also what line to take and which sites each line will get you to. The whole process is pretty self-explanatory and in no time you’ll be riding all around town in old-fashioned style.

Getting Around Nagasaki

The tram system consist of five lines. Line 1 is the blue line, this line covers the biggest distance, doing round trips between the Peace Park in the north and the Shianbashi district in the city core. Line 2 (black) and Line 3 (red) cover a similar path but only do it on one-way trips. Nishihamanomachi Station is the main transfer point of the whole system and connects the blue and black lines with Line 4 (yellow) and Line 5 (green). From the transfer point, the green line will get you close enough to the Dutch settlement district of the city so that you can explore the landmarks and historic slopes on foot.

Getting Around Nagasaki

The flat-rate for using the streetcars is 120 yen per ride for adults and 60 yen per ride for children. This allows you one free transfer at Tsuki-machi Station and is convenient for riding from point A to point B, then covering the rest of the tour on foot. A better option is the One-Day pass. For 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children, this pass allows you unlimited rides on all streetcar lines. If you want to see a lot of the city without burning out this is very convenient as you can hop on and off frequently and cover more attractions throughout the day. Keep in mind that this day pass is only available at the Tourist Information Centre in Nagasaki Station or at hotels around the city.

Getting Around Nagasaki

Even though you decide to ride in style aboard the streetcars, do not forget that this is a city of countless slopes and many steps, so to reach some specific destinations you will have to walk. Biking is also a fun option yet it may limit the areas you can reach. We highly recommend that you go for the day pass, wear a good pair of walking shoes, and enjoy the quaint ride and a leisurely walk around this beautiful city.

Getting Around Nagasaki

Getting Around Nagasaki

Nagasaki(Nagasaki)

Nagasaki Pref

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