Getting There & Away: Nagasaki

Airport & Flights

Major Airports

Nagasaki Airport (NGS) the main airport, handling domestic flights. Fukuoka Airport (FUK) Kyushu's largest international hub, about two hours away by train or bus.

Typical Routes

NGS: Mainly domestic routes with ANA and JAL to Tokyo/Osaka.
FUK: Extensive domestic and international connections with major carriers and budget airlines across Asia.
No direct international flights from major global hubs fly directly to NGS.

Flight & Transfers

Flight prices within Japan and for international routes to Japan fluctuate significantly based on season and holidays.

Transfer Options

NGS to City: Frequent airport limousine buses to Nagasaki Station (40-50 min, ¥1,000-¥1,500).
FUK to Nagasaki: Subway from FUK to Hakata Station (5 min), then Limited Express Kamome to Nagasaki Station (2 hours, ¥4,000-¥5,000).
The train route from FUK covered by Japan Rail Pass.

Nagasaki Airport NGS

NGS offers standard airport facilities like restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi.

Fukuoka Airport FUK

FUK a larger international hub with duty-free, lounges, and more dining.

General Services

Both airports currency exchange, information counters, and efficient transfer connections.

Travel Considerations

Peak Season Travel

Expect higher prices during Japanese national holidays: Golden Week (early May).
Obon (mid-August) and New Year (late Dec-early Jan) see high domestic travel.
Peak tourist seasons (spring cherry blossom, autumn foliage) also see increased prices.
Consider flying during shoulder seasons for better value.

Arrival Pathways

From Tokyo/Osaka: Take domestic flight to NGS, or Shinkansen to Hakata then Limited Express Kamome to Nagasaki.
From Fukuoka: Direct highway buses connect Hakata Bus Terminal to Nagasaki Station (2.5 hrs, ¥2,600).
Self-driving: Requires International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under 1949 Geneva Convention.
Roads well-maintained, but city parking can be expensive and limited.

Online Flight Tools

Dollar Flight Club

Flight deal alerts for budget travelers.

DiscoverCars.com

Car rental comparisons for your travel needs.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Nagasaki well-connected by Japan Rail (JR) services.

Train Routes

From Fukuoka (Hakata Station) to Nagasaki Station via Limited Express Kamome (approx. 2 hours).
Japan Rail Pass (or regional JR Kyushu Pass) covers Limited Express Kamome.
Kyushu Shinkansen extends to Takeo-Onsen, with a relay train to Nagasaki.

Long-Distance Buses

Highway buses a cheaper, though slower, alternative to trains for long-distance travel to Nagasaki.

Bus Routes & Companies

Connects Nagasaki with major cities across Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Kagoshima).
Major bus companies: Kyushu Kyuko Bus and Nishitetsu Bus.
Expect longer travel times compared to trains.

Self-Driving Considerations

To drive in Japan as a foreign visitor, you must possess a valid home country driver's license AND an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. You must obtain the IDP in your home country before departure. Japanese car rental companies will strictly enforce this requirement.

Road Conditions

Japan's roads well-maintained and clearly signposted. Driving is on the left.
Parking can be expensive and limited in city centers.
Be aware of narrow roads in older city areas and high tolls on expressways.

Sea/River Arrivals

Nagasaki’s status as a port city means sea travel another way to arrive, notably from nearby islands or for cruise passengers.

Ferry & Cruise Details

Regular ferry services connect Nagasaki with the Goto Islands and Shimabara.
High-speed boats and car ferries offer scenic journeys.
Nagasaki Port a major port of call for international cruise ships.

Road Safety Notes

Driving is on the left side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
Japan has strict drunk driving laws. Speed limits apply.
Be aware of heavy traffic in city centers during peak hours.

Present your IDP if you plan to drive.
Always exercise caution, especially on unfamiliar routes.
Parking facilities are available but can be costly.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes typically levied directly on departing travelers from Japan. Such fees usually included in the airfare or cruise ticket price.

Timing Recommendations

From Nagasaki Airport (NGS): Arrive at least 1 to 1.5 hours before your scheduled domestic departure.
From Fukuoka Airport (FUK): Arrive 2 to 3 hours prior to your international flight's departure.
Account for the 2 to 2.5-hour train or bus journey from Nagasaki to Fukuoka Airport.

Airport/Station Facilities

Ensure all necessary documents, like your passport and boarding pass, are easily accessible.

Facilities Overview

Nagasaki Airport (NGS): Standard departure facilities, including souvenir shops and restaurants.
Nagasaki Station: Numerous shops, restaurants, and convenience stores for last-minute needs.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK): As an international hub, FUK a wider array of duty-free shops and international dining.

Timely Arrival

Plan sufficient time for check-in and security.

Travel Essentials

Keep passport and boarding pass easily accessible.

Departure Summary

Final Notes

This section guides you through the process of arriving at and departing from Nagasaki, from flight connections to local transport considerations, making your journey smooth.

Getting There & Away