Introducing 9 must-see Nagasaki date spots that couples should definitely visit

Nagasaki is known for its rich history, multicultural charm, and delicious food, making it one of the popular tourist destinations. But beyond sightseeing, it offers plenty of exciting date spots. Whether you’re a new couple or have been together for years, Nagasaki provides the perfect setting to create unforgettable memories and grow even closer to your partner. This guide highlights a selection of must-visit places for couples, from classic locations to hidden gems.

1. Inasayama – One of Japan’s Top Three Night Views

If you're aiming for a romantic date, including a night view is essential. Inasayama offers one of Japan's top three night views, alongside Hakodate and Rokko Mountains. The city lights spread below sparkle like a field of jewels, creating a breathtaking view.

Visiting as a couple will only make the experience more magical. There’s more than just the view to enjoy – on the first floor of the observatory, you’ll find the "Promise Heart" monument, where couples can write messages on plates and attach them. Another popular spot is the "Heart Tree," an LED-lit installation perfect for taking photos.

Accessing the summit is easy by car or cable car. You can even check the weather, temperature, and wind speed on the Nagasaki Ropeway’s website, making it convenient to plan. Inasayama offers an unforgettable romantic experience – don’t miss out!

2. Glover Garden – A Heart-Hunting Adventure for Couples

Glover Garden is another popular date destination in Nagasaki. Opened in 1974, it symbolizes Japan’s modernization and Westernization during the Meiji era and remains a well-known tourist attraction. From spring to summer, seasonal flowers bloom throughout the garden, making it ideal for a romantic stroll.

Various seasonal events ensure there’s always something new to enjoy. A highlight for couples is the hunt for two heart-shaped stones hidden within the garden. Finding them is said to bring happiness, and if you place your hands together over the stone and make a wish, legend says your wish will come true, ensuring a lifetime of happiness together.

For couples seeking good fortune, a heart-hunting date at Glover Garden is highly recommended.

3. Tsushima Island – Explore Nature and Have Fun Together

For couples looking for a getaway from the mainland and a change of pace, Tsushima Island is an excellent choice. The island offers abundant natural beauty and various activities. You can hike the sacred Mt. Shirataki, one of Kyushu’s 100 famous mountains, or enjoy kayaking in the pristine sea.

Activity bookings are available through the Tsushima Tourism Association's website. There are also parks where you can camp and enjoy nature overnight. While part of Nagasaki Prefecture, Tsushima is located between Fukuoka and South Korea. You can reach the island by plane in 30 minutes, with 4-5 flights daily from both Fukuoka and Nagasaki airports. Alternatively, a ferry from Hakata Port offers another travel option.

If you're tired of city dates and crave an adventure in nature, Tsushima Island is perfect for you!

4. Huis Ten Bosch – A Classic Date Destination

Huis Ten Bosch is the quintessential Nagasaki date spot. Whether you’re with a partner, family, or friends, this massive theme park offers something for everyone. The park features beautiful European-style architecture, with seasonal flowers blooming throughout the year. At night, the park is illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples to enjoy.

With seasonal events like the Kingdom of Lights (illuminations), autumn wine festivals, and spring music festivals, there’s always something exciting happening. The park also houses official hotels, making it easy to explore from morning until night.

While it may be a standard date spot, Huis Ten Bosch never fails to impress. Enjoy the European vibe and make unforgettable memories with your partner. The park generally operates from 9 AM to 10 PM, with extended hours during holidays such as Christmas and New Year’s.

5. Isahaya Park – Relax and Unwind Together

Isahaya Park is a hidden gem, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful and relaxing date. The park offers plenty of open space, perfect for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day. While Nagasaki is famous for its Megane Bridge on Nakashima River, Isahaya Park also boasts an equally impressive Megane Bridge worth seeing.

This stone bridge holds historical significance as Japan's first bridge designated as an Important Cultural Property. In addition, the park is home to dozens of rare warm-climate plant species, classified as a Natural Monument, allowing visitors to enjoy nature to the fullest.

Though the park is typically quiet and tranquil, it becomes lively in April during the Tsutsuji (Azalea) Festival, which attracts tourists from across the country. Fireflies can also be seen in late May to early June, making the park an ideal destination for a romantic evening walk.

If you're looking for a break from movies and dinner dates, why not spend a slow, peaceful day at Isahaya Park?

6. Nanatsugama Limestone Cave – Cool Off on a Hot Day

While Nagasaki has many popular attractions, the Nanatsugama Limestone Cave in Saikai City offers a lesser-known but highly recommended experience. The cave, designated a Natural Monument, was formed from ancient seabed limestone that rose above the ocean over 3,000 years ago. As a result, it features fascinating rock formations and fossils, making it a unique and rare geological site.

Exploring the cave takes about 1-2 hours, providing a surreal setting for a date unlike any other. With a constant temperature of 15°C (59°F) year-round, the cave offers a refreshing escape from summer heat and warmth during colder months.

Surrounding the cave is a park with walking trails and seasonal flowers, perfect for a relaxing nature walk. If you're looking for a cool and unique dating experience, the Nanatsugama Limestone Cave is an excellent choice.

7. Kazagashira Park – A Scenic Spot for Couples

Kazagashira Park offers panoramic views of Nagasaki Port and the entire city, making it a fantastic date spot year-round. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and hydrangeas flourish during the rainy season, creating picturesque scenery.

The park is also home to a statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a prominent figure from the Bakumatsu era, gazing out toward the distant sea. The route to the park follows "Ryoma Street," a historic stone-paved path where Ryoma and his allies once walked, attracting history enthusiasts and Ryoma fans alike.

At night, the park becomes a popular destination for locals, offering romantic views of the illuminated cityscape from its two observatories. While the observatory with the Ryoma statue is smaller, the other offers more space and a better view, making it perfect for a nighttime date.

Kazagashira Park is accessible by a 25-minute bus ride from JR Nagasaki Station. Take the Nagasaki Bus bound for Kazagashirayama and get off at the Kazagashirayama bus stop. Whether day or night, Kazagashira Park promises a memorable date with breathtaking scenery.

8. Iki Island – Relax on a Beautiful Beach

Did you know that Nagasaki has more islands than any other prefecture in Japan? With 971 registered islands, it offers plenty of hidden gems for exploration. One highly recommended date spot is Iki Island, a small island located between Kyushu and Tsushima.

The beaches of Iki Island are often compared to those in Hawaii or Cancun, with crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxation. You can enjoy leisurely beach time, feast on fresh seafood, or dive into various marine sports, making it an ideal spot for both laid-back and active couples.

To reach Iki Island, you can take a ferry from Hakata or Karatsu Port (travel time varies from 70 to 140 minutes depending on the type of ferry). Alternatively, flights are available from Nagasaki Airport, taking about 30 minutes. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, a date on Iki Island will create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

9. Yumiharidake Observatory – A Hidden Night View Spot

While Inasayama may be the most famous place for night views in Nagasaki, couples looking for a quieter, equally stunning option should visit Yumiharidake Observatory.

During the day, the observatory offers panoramic views in all directions: Sasebo Port to the south, the Goto and Kujuku Islands to the west, and the city center to the east. As the day turns to evening, photographers gather here to capture the breathtaking sunset over the western sea.

At night, the observatory lights up with a different charm, as the city glimmers below. Recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 night views, Yumiharidake is less crowded than Inasayama, offering couples a quieter, more intimate setting for a romantic date.

You can access the observatory by taking a 25-minute bus ride from Sasebo Station. A bus ride together might even add a little charm to your adventure!

Conclusion

We’ve introduced 9 date spots in Nagasaki—what do you think? Nagasaki is full of charming places for couples, making it hard to choose just one! If you're unsure where to go for your next date, why not try visiting each spot one by one? Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing date or an active adventure, Nagasaki offers plenty of opportunities to create happy moments together. Enjoy your time with your loved one in this beautiful city!