Port information & tips for Nagasaki
Nagasaki is a historic port city on the island of Kyushu and stands out as one of Japan's most fascinating destinations due to its picturesque location in a bay surrounded by mountains. The atmosphere is characterized by a unique interaction of Far Eastern tradition and Western influences, giving the city a cosmopolitan flair. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the historic Glover Garden with its Victorian buildings, the impressive Oura Church, and the former trading post Dejima. Cruise ships dock at the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal, which is in an excellent, central location. From here, the city center is easily accessible on foot and, thanks to the charming tram network, also offers perfect connections to all of the city's other sights.
The port of Nagasaki, located in the west of Kyushu island, welcomes cruise ships at the centrally located Matsugaeda International Cruise Terminal, which is just a few minutes' walk from significant cultural monuments. Thanks to excellent connections to the Japanese transport network, arrival at the terminal is designed to be comfortable and efficient for international guests.
Airplane
Nagasaki Airport (NGS) is the most important gateway for guests from the DACH region and is regularly served via the major hubs of Tokyo-Haneda (HND), Tokyo-Narita (NRT), or Osaka. A direct airport limousine bus connects the airport with the city center and the central railway station in about 45 to 50 minutes; additionally, taxis are available at the airport terminal at all times for a convenient transfer directly to the Matsugaeda pier.
Train
Arrival by train is via JR Nagasaki Station, which is connected to the important hub of Hakata in Fukuoka by the modern Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen. From the station, you can reach the ship in only about 10 minutes by taxi, or use the charming streetcars on lines 1 and 5, which reliably take you to the Oura Kaigan Dori stop in the immediate vicinity of the cruise terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight time and the time difference, arriving the day before and staying overnight in a hotel in the Minamiyamate district or near Dejima Wharf is highly recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to the cruise and also offers a wonderful opportunity to explore sights such as Glover Garden or Oura Cathedral in peace before embarkation.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly, and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The port of Nagasaki, located in the west of Kyushu island, welcomes cruise ships at the centrally located Matsugaeda International Cruise Terminal, which is just a few minutes' walk from significant cultural monuments. Thanks to excellent connections to the Japanese transport network, arrival at the terminal is designed to be comfortable and efficient for international guests.
Airplane
Nagasaki Airport (NGS) is the most important gateway for guests from the DACH region and is regularly served via the major hubs of Tokyo-Haneda (HND), Tokyo-Narita (NRT), or Osaka. A direct airport limousine bus connects the airport with the city center and the central railway station in about 45 to 50 minutes; additionally, taxis are available at the airport terminal at all times for a convenient transfer directly to the Matsugaeda pier.
Train
Arrival by train is via JR Nagasaki Station, which is connected to the important hub of Hakata in Fukuoka by the modern Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen. From the station, you can reach the ship in only about 10 minutes by taxi, or use the charming streetcars on lines 1 and 5, which reliably take you to the Oura Kaigan Dori stop in the immediate vicinity of the cruise terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight time and the time difference, arriving the day before and staying overnight in a hotel in the Minamiyamate district or near Dejima Wharf is highly recommended. This allows for a relaxed start to the cruise and also offers a wonderful opportunity to explore sights such as Glover Garden or Oura Cathedral in peace before embarkation.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly, and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The port of Nagasaki impresses with its central location and provides travelers with direct access to the most important sights of the historic city. Thanks to the excellent infrastructure at the Matsugae Terminal, you can reach many destinations comfortably and in a short time.
On Foot
The terminal's central location allows you to reach famous sights such as Glover Garden or Oura Church in just a few minutes. A relaxed walk along the waterfront promenade also leads you directly to the historic Dejima district and the lively city center in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tram (Nagasaki Electric Tramway)
The charming trams are the ideal means of transport and stop at Oura Tenshudo station in the immediate vicinity of the port exit. The lines are color-coded and connect the terminal conveniently with Peace Park, the Atomic Bomb Museum, and the city's central shopping districts.
Taxi
Numerous taxis wait for passengers directly in front of the terminal building and offer a comfortable service for individual tours. Thanks to the short distances, you can quickly reach more distant viewpoints or the valley station of the Mount Inasa Ropeway by taxi to enjoy the impressive panoramic view over the bay.
To make the most of your stay in Nagasaki, an atmospheric route between the historic hills directly at the harbor and the world-famous peace memorials is recommended.
Glover Garden & Oura Church
This charming district is located just a few minutes' walk from the cruise terminal and is the ideal place for a relaxed stroll with fantastic views of the ship, thanks to its magnificent Western architecture and blooming gardens.
Peace Park & Atomic Bomb Museum
This significant cultural highlight is perfectly suited for those interested in history and conveys an inspiring message of hope and reconciliation through its impressive monuments and extensive park grounds.
Iojima & Costa del Sol Beach
The picturesque island is quickly accessible via a short ferry ride from the harbor and offers the perfect place for a relaxing break by the sea with its well-kept sandy beach and crystal-clear water, while providing a great view of the coastal landscape.
Glover Garden & Minami-Yamate
The historic Glover Garden is located on a picturesque hill just a few minutes' walk from the Matsugae cruise terminal and offers a fascinating journey into the time when Nagasaki opened up to the Western world. From the elegant terraces of the oldest wooden buildings in Japan, you can also enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views over the harbor and your cruise ship. The extensive gardens are perfect for a relaxed stroll and invite you to take a stylish break for traditional coffee with a view of the sea at the charming Jiyu-tei teahouse. Ideally, visit the area directly after arrival in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before the larger crowds of visitors arrive, and return to the ship comfortably on foot in the early afternoon.
The journey back to Matsugae Cruise Pier is extremely relaxed and safe thanks to Nagasaki's compact city structure and excellent infrastructure.
Tram
The historic trams are the ideal means of transport and take you directly to the Ouratenshudo stop, in the immediate vicinity of the pier, via Line 5. The cars run at short intervals and offer a charming and punctual way to return comfortably to the ship from Peace Park or the central shopping streets.
Taxi
Taxi stands can be found directly in front of Nagasaki JR Station, at major hotels, and at main attractions such as Glover Garden or Peace Park. The drivers are known for their reliability and will bring you purposefully to the port entrance thanks to the clear landmarks, with the short distances within the city ensuring a quick return.
On Foot
A walk to the terminal is particularly recommended from Dejima Wharf or the Oura district and offers one last beautiful view of the harbor promenade. The path is level throughout and is very easy and safe to find thanks to tourist signage and the clearly visible silhouette of the cruise ship.
