Speaking of Nagasaki, you may think of an important international trading port in western Japan, or you may think of the city as one of the three major Chinesetowns in Japan. An atomic bomb was also dropped on Nagasaki after Hiroshima during World War II. Today, many people visit Nagasaki by cruise ships.

I wanted to visit not only Nagasaki but also other parts of Kyushu, so I used the 3-day unlimited bus ticket instead of the cruise ship.

Nagasaki was the first place in Kyushu where the cherry blossoms bloom in March, and I wanted to go to Nagasaki because it was after I visited Hiroshima, which was also the site of the atomic bombing.

One of the most famous places in Nagasaki Prefecture is Nagasaki City and the other is Sasebo city. Since I was limited on time, I only explored Nagasaki city. Now, let’s take a look at some of the scenic routes for a day trip in Nagasaki!

【Transportation】

The transportation in Nagasaki is similar to Hiroshima and very convenient. As the main means of transportation, trams go around the city. No matter how far you ride, the fare is 130 yen and it is postpaid. I recommend the “one-day ticket” that allows you to travel around the tourist spots efficiently. The price is 500 yen.

【The Nagasaki Peace Park】

The Peace Park, located on a hill north of the site of the atomic bombing, was created as a symbol of a pledge to never repeat the tragedy of the war and a wish for world peace. Nagasaki is one of only two cities in the world to have suffered an atomic bombing. Therefore, a visit to Nagasaki is essential to see the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. The Peace Park showcases the remains of the A-bomb and related documents. The huge bronze Peace Statue is a symbolic prayer for peace.

Meganebashi Bridge

Our next stop is Megane(glasses) Bridge. This bridge reminds me of waterfront towns in China. Japanese historical documents indicate that this bridge is “the first stone arch bridge in Japan”. It is said to be named after the shadows on the river’s surface, which form a twin circle and look like “glasses”. The water was very clear, and I saw red and gold carps in the water.

There is also a sculpture of a Japanese girl and a Chinese boy next to the bridge, which is very impressive.