Practical Information: Nagasaki

Communication

Learn about local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, and translation resources.

Mobile & Internet Access

Tourist SIM cards (data-only) at airports or electronics stores.
Airalo offers convenient eSIMs for data access.
Portable Wi-Fi devices (Pocket Wi-Fi) like Solis Wi-Fi for multiple devices.

Language & Translation

Japanese is the official language. English ability varies.

Helpful Tools & Phrases

Google Translate for instant text, voice, and image translation.
Japanese phrasebook for basic communication and polite expressions.
"Konnichiwa" (Hello), "Arigato gozaimasu" (Thank you), "Sumimasen" (Excuse me / Sorry).

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours for various establishments.

Operating Hours

Shops: Generally 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Restaurants: Lunch 11:00 AM-2:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM-9:00 PM.
Convenience Stores (Konbini): Most are open 24/7.

Banking & Holidays

Know banking hours and how holidays influence services.

Financial & Public Holidays

Banks: Usually open 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays.
ATMs: Widely available, often 24/7 at 7-Eleven.
Public Holidays: Services (banks, post offices) may close. Golden Week, Obon, New Year create crowds.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social Customs

A slight bow is customary for greetings.
Neat and tidy clothing is generally appropriate. Modest dress for temples/shrines.
No tipping expected. Slurping noodles is fine. Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice bowls.
Photography generally permitted unless signs say otherwise. Avoid candid close-ups.

Taboos & Sensitivity

Avoid blowing your nose loudly in public or pointing with a single finger.
Keep voices low on public transport.
Discussions about the atomic bombing warrant sensitivity and respect.
Always remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, some temples or restaurants.

Important Note:

Carry a small plastic bag for your trash. Public trash cans are scarce in Japan; you will often carry waste until finding a designated bin, usually at convenience stores or train stations.

Accessibility Information

Japan works on accessibility. Travelers with mobility challenges may benefit from planning ahead.

Infrastructure

Major train stations and airports often have elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms. Newer buildings and tourist facilities consider accessibility.

Accessible Attractions

Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park exhibit good accessibility. Glover Garden has escalators and moving walkways to assist with its hilly layout.

Transportation

Newer buses are low-floor and more accessible. Taxis offer a direct, accessible option. Nagasaki's hilly terrain and older tram cars may present challenges.

Sensory Impairment Support

Support for visual or hearing impairments exists in public areas.

Visual & Hearing

Tactile paving for visually impaired individuals is common in public areas and train stations.
Information is often mainly in Japanese.
Translation apps assist those needing text-based communication.

Accessibility Resources

Organizations share information for travelers with disabilities.

Where to Find Information

The Japan Accessible Tourism Center (JATC) website shares valuable information.
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website provides accessibility guides.
Research specific attractions and transportation options.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Social Climate

Japan is a generally conservative society but safe and welcoming.
Public displays of affection are rare for all couples.
Overt displays of affection might draw stares in conservative areas.

LGBTQ+ Information

LGBTQ+ rights see progress (partnership certificates in some cities).
Same-sex marriage is not nationally recognized.
Discrimination is not common for tourists.

Additional Tip:

For language learning on the go, consider Rosetta Stone for useful phrases and vocabulary.

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Practical Information