10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Nagasaki

The Mt Inasayama Observatory is a 333-metre-high viewpoint on the outskirts of Nagasaki. Lying just west of the city, this landmark is widely regarded as one of the best viewpoints in the country – it’s even called Nagasaki’s "10 Million Dollar Night View".

You can hike for around 1 hour to the mountain summit from the Fuchi Shrine or take the Nagasaki Ropeway from the city. Either way, you'll be greeted by an observation deck that offers an unparalleled vista of the port city and harbour. The lights of the city sprawl out along the Nagasaki peninsula before giving way to the East China Sea. On a clear night, you’ll even catch a few stars.

The Huis Ten Bosch theme park is a fascinating recreation of the Netherlands, complete with canals, windmills and tulips, plus various theme park rides. Located in Sasebo (about 1 hour north of Nagasaki) it's one of the largest amusement parks in Japan. Most of the theme park still runs after dark, especially the many restaurants and bars.

Huis Ten Bosch exudes a rather romantic vibe at night, thanks to the lit-up canals. Dutch-themed shops sell just about everything, from wooden clogs to fluffy waffles. There are regular firework displays too, so check the calendar before your visit.

Tonoo Market is a small local shopping area that can be found in Tunnel Yokocho Shopping Street, named after the air-raid shelter it used to be. Located just a 10-minute walk from Sasebo Station and close to the Yokkamachi shopping district, it's worth a short detour to visit this historic street.

The street slopes gently down to the bustling market, which is popular with both tourists and locals. The shopfronts are tucked away due to the air-raid design. There are a couple of cafés and taverns in and around Tonoo Market if you’re looking for refreshments.

The Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a monument to the victims who perished in the devastating nuclear event in 1945. It's a serene place where you can learn about the tragedy and pay your respects.

The museum has survivor’s accounts, photographs, and interactive activities like one where you write a message to your future self, which will stay there for 10 years. The hall itself is actually underground. Outside, you can see a pool with 12 pillars of light rising from below. Every night, there’s a striking memorial display where 70,000 fibre optics light up to represent the victims.

The Mt Nabekanmuri Park viewpoint offers stunning views of Nagasaki, facing towards the port and out over the East China Sea. You can get there on foot via a skyway at Ishibashi Station. It's a bit of a hidden gem enjoyed by locals because most tourists head to Mt Inasa and miss this beautiful vantage point.

The view from the top, overlooking the cruise ship port, is spectacular. The city sprawls out behind the harbour, and in the other direction, you'll see the islands of Nagasaki dotted around the bay. At night, sparkling lights bring a new life to the view, making the Mt Nabekanmuri Park viewpoint a great spot to visit after dinner in Nagasaki.

The Nagasaki Dejima Wharf is right in the centre of Nagasaki, between the main port terminal and Nagasaki Seaside Park. It's a commercial centre with plenty of cafes, bars and dessert parlours, but it’s also good for just an idle nighttime stroll.

The setting is idyllic, with dozens of ships rolling in and out of the bay. Live music on the terrace adds to the vibrant ambience, and there are a host of wine bars around for a late-night drink in Nagasaki.

Hot springs, known locally as onsen, are famed in Nagasaki, with the volcanic geography giving rise to lots of mountains and steamy geysers. About 1 hour’s drive east of Nagasaki city is Unzen, where many leisure resorts are found.

The hot springs are great for relaxing after dinner in Nagasaki. The sulfur and other minerals help with circulation and joint health. The warm, outdoor baths are surrounded by stunning scenery to help you destress. Some of the resorts even let you buy and cook food at the hottest springs. Eggs boiled in the onsen mists are said to promote longevity.

Shinchi Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Japan, with Shinchi Chinatown Station connecting the district with the rest of Nagasaki. Founded in the 1700s as a trading post, Shinchi has developed into a thriving community full of Chinese businesses and culture.

Local life thrives well into the night in Shinchi Chinatown, so you’ll find all sorts of things to do after dinner. The entrance is a traditional memorial arch that leads you into a narrow street. The businesses are adorned in red and gold. Expect plenty of bars, cultural displays and all sorts of vendors selling souvenirs and artisanal goods. If you’re visiting during Chinese New Year, fun celebrations take place throughout the annual holiday. 

Live music at Body II Soul is a lively way to spend an evening in Nagasaki. This small live music venue and izakaya (local bar) is in the city’s Tsukimachi district, just a short walk away from the Hamano-Machi Arcade Station.

There are all sorts of genres played at Body II Soul, so you’ll need to check its schedule for anything specific. Jazz is a mainstay, but the bar also hosts rock ‘n’ roll nights with tribute and original acts, acoustic duos, and even open jam sessions. Body II Soul’s staff are passionate music fans who love to help you get acquainted with the local culture.

Shianbashi bars and clubs are where you want to spend your time after dinner if you're looking for a party in Nagasaki. Easily accessible by tram, the narrow, winding alleys have been welcoming sailors and local revellers for years. Whether you're looking for a cocktail, live music, or a hidden izakaya, Shianbashi has it all.

Walking down Shianbashi’s streets after dark, you’ll be surrounded by retro billboards, while the sounds of jazz and pop compete for your attention. It’s a popular spot for locals in the evening. There are so many places to check out, your best bet is to walk around the streets looking for one that takes your fancy.