Port information & tips for Shimabara (Kyushu)
Shimabara is picturesquely situated on the peninsula of the same name in the east of Nagasaki Prefecture and welcomes guests with a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Water," it impresses with its calm atmosphere, the stunning panorama of the Unzen volcano, and the ever-present, crystal-clear spring streams where colorful koi carp swim. Cultural highlights also include the magnificent white Shimabara Castle and the historical Bukeyashiki samurai district with its well-preserved residences. Cruise ships dock at the Shimabara Port Terminal, from where the city center and the main attractions are easily accessible in just a few minutes thanks to the direct connection to the Shimabara Railway or via a short transfer.
The Port of Shimabara, picturesquely situated on the Shimabara Peninsula, serves as an important ferry hub and offers cruise guests a pleasant arrival. The modern terminal building is well-equipped, and thanks to the combined arrival options from the DACH region, a comfortable and well-plannable journey to the ship is guaranteed.
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, traveling by plane is the most common choice. The nearest major airport is Nagasaki Airport (NGS), approximately 44 kilometers from Shimabara. From there, you can reach Isahaya Station by bus in about 45 minutes and then take the Shimabara Railway to Shimabara Station in about 70 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of around two hours. Alternatively, Fukuoka Airport (FUK) offers further connections as a larger international hub and is located about 90.7 kilometers away. From Fukuoka, you can take a direct highway bus from Hakata Bus Terminal to Shimabara Station, which covers the distance in about 3.5 hours.
Arrival at the Port (Train & Ferry)
After arriving in Japan, you can easily reach Shimabara via a well-connected system of trains and ferries. The city's central transport hub is Shimabara Station. From Shimabara Station, the ferry port is quickly accessible thanks to the Shimabara Railway to Shimabarako Station (also called Shimabara-ko), which is located only about 400 meters or a five-minute walk from the terminal. The train journey here takes only about 10 minutes. Alternatively, buses run between Shimabara Station and the ferry terminal in just 4 minutes. Shimabara Port is also an important ferry port with connections to the Port of Kumamoto, which take only about 30 minutes by high-speed ferry.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Parking
Due to the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend staying overnight in one of the hotels in Shimabara on the day before your cruise. Many accommodations are conveniently located to the city and the port, including the Hotel Seaside Shimabara, which is considered very practical for the ferry terminal, or the Shimabara Toyo City Hotel, which is located near Shimabara Port Station. For travelers with a car, parking spaces are available at Shimabara Port, which can also be used by ferry passengers with vehicles. It is advisable to report to the counter 10-15 minutes before the ferry departure to purchase tickets and park the vehicle. A rental car also offers flexibility to explore the picturesque Shimabara Peninsula individually.
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 the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: During shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Shimabara, picturesquely situated on the Shimabara Peninsula, serves as an important ferry hub and offers cruise guests a pleasant arrival. The modern terminal building is well-equipped, and thanks to the combined arrival options from the DACH region, a comfortable and well-plannable journey to the ship is guaranteed.
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, traveling by plane is the most common choice. The nearest major airport is Nagasaki Airport (NGS), approximately 44 kilometers from Shimabara. From there, you can reach Isahaya Station by bus in about 45 minutes and then take the Shimabara Railway to Shimabara Station in about 70 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of around two hours. Alternatively, Fukuoka Airport (FUK) offers further connections as a larger international hub and is located about 90.7 kilometers away. From Fukuoka, you can take a direct highway bus from Hakata Bus Terminal to Shimabara Station, which covers the distance in about 3.5 hours.
Arrival at the Port (Train & Ferry)
After arriving in Japan, you can easily reach Shimabara via a well-connected system of trains and ferries. The city's central transport hub is Shimabara Station. From Shimabara Station, the ferry port is quickly accessible thanks to the Shimabara Railway to Shimabarako Station (also called Shimabara-ko), which is located only about 400 meters or a five-minute walk from the terminal. The train journey here takes only about 10 minutes. Alternatively, buses run between Shimabara Station and the ferry terminal in just 4 minutes. Shimabara Port is also an important ferry port with connections to the Port of Kumamoto, which take only about 30 minutes by high-speed ferry.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Parking
Due to the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend staying overnight in one of the hotels in Shimabara on the day before your cruise. Many accommodations are conveniently located to the city and the port, including the Hotel Seaside Shimabara, which is considered very practical for the ferry terminal, or the Shimabara Toyo City Hotel, which is located near Shimabara Port Station. For travelers with a car, parking spaces are available at Shimabara Port, which can also be used by ferry passengers with vehicles. It is advisable to report to the counter 10-15 minutes before the ferry departure to purchase tickets and park the vehicle. A rental car also offers flexibility to explore the picturesque Shimabara Peninsula individually.
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 the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: During shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Shimabara Port is picturesquely situated on the Ariake Sea and offers travelers convenient access to the city's historical treasures thanks to its excellent connections.
Shimabara Railway (Shitetsu)
The striking yellow trains of the local railway depart from Shimabara-ko Station, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the port terminal. In about ten minutes, you can easily reach the central Shimabara Station and find yourself directly near the impressive castle and the historical old town.
Taxi
Taxis are available directly at the port exit as well as at the nearby railway station and will take you to the most important sights within five to ten minutes. The ride allows for a direct approach to the Samurai district or the famous thermal foot baths and is very efficient thanks to the short distances.
Shimitetsu Bus
The local scheduled buses of the Shimitetsu company run regularly between the port and the city center. This option is ideal for experiencing the city authentically while also comfortably and directly reaching destinations such as the famous spring water canals with the colorful koi carp.
To make the most of your stay in Shimabara, we recommend focusing on the magnificent white castle as well as the unique historical alleys and the fascinating thermal areas of the region.
Shimabara Castle
The impressive fortress towers majestically over the city and offers a deep insight into the samurai heritage thanks to its extensive moats and informative exhibitions; in addition, the top floor provides a wide panoramic view over the bay.
Samurai District & Teppo-machi
This charming district fascinates with its historical residences and crystal-clear waterways directly in the streets; furthermore, the colorful koi in the canals of the City of Water invite you to take a picturesque stroll through authentic Japan.
Unzen Jigoku
The spectacular geothermal field in the heart of the nearby national park is an ideal excursion destination thanks to its mystical clouds of steam and hot sulfur springs, and can be perfectly combined with a relaxing visit to the traditional onsen baths.
The Samurai District Buke-yashiki and the City of Water
The historic Samurai district Buke-yashiki is located only about ten minutes by taxi from the port and allows you to immerse yourself immediately in the authentic Japan of the Edo period. The idyllic alleys are famous for their crystal-clear waterways, where magnificent koi swim, and offer fascinating insights into Japanese history thanks to the three originally preserved Samurai residences. In the immediate neighborhood, the Shimeisou garden house also invites you to enjoy the view over the bubbling springs with a cup of green tea and let the peaceful atmosphere take effect on you. Ideally, start your excursion in the morning to use the soft morning sun for photos at the waterways, and return safely to the ship after a relaxed walk in the early afternoon.
The way back to Shimabara Port is straightforward and relaxed, thanks to the city's compact structure and excellent public transport connections.
Taxi
Taxis are available for you at the central taxi rank directly in front of Shimabara Station and near Shimabara Castle. Additionally, staff at larger hotels or the castle's visitor center will be happy to call a car for you to ensure you reach the pier punctually and comfortably.
Train and Bus
The local Shimabara Railway connects the city's main points and takes you in just a few minutes to the Shimabara-ko stop, which is located directly at the port area. Furthermore, city buses run regularly between the sights and the ferry terminal, allowing you to plan your return journey flexibly and easily.
On Foot
From Shimabara-ko Station, you can reach the pier in a short walk along flat paths directly by the water. Orientation is very easy thanks to clear signage to the terminal and the striking silhouette of your ship, ensuring a safe feeling on the final stretch of the way.
