Nagasaki in winter is also full of charm. Not only are there many tourist attractions, but you can also enjoy gourmet food. In addition, there are plenty of seasonal events unique to winter, so it’s no surprise that many people find it hard to decide where to go.
Originally, Nagasaki has been a historic city and one of Japan’s leading international ports. In addition to its exotic streetscape, the city has customs rooted in its multicultural background, and many festive events are held during the winter season.
Here, we’ll introduce some recommended information, including winter sightseeing spots and events in Nagasaki. Whether you stop by on a short trip or plan to spend a whole day exploring, there are plenty of places to enjoy.
1. Enjoy Japan’s longest footbath — Obama Onsen Footbath “Hot Foot 105”
When winter comes, we naturally want to warm our bodies. Nagasaki has many hot spring spots, but one that stands out is “Hot Foot 105” in Obama Onsen. Opened in 2010, this tourist attraction features Japan’s longest footbath — stretching 105 meters.
Obama Onsen boasts Japan’s highest geothermal temperature, with its source water reaching 105°C. Inspired by that number, they built a 105-meter-long footbath. In addition to standard footbaths, there are walking footbaths and even ones for pets, offering various ways to enjoy the hot water. Another great point: soaking your feet is free of charge.
Name: Obama Onsen Footbath “Hot Foot 105”
Address: 14-39 Kitahonmachi, Obama-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Official Website: http://obama.or.jp
2. Nagasaki’s winter tradition — “Nagasaki Lantern Festival”
The most famous winter event in Nagasaki is the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Centered around Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, approximately 15,000 lanterns are displayed throughout the city’s downtown areas, including Minato Park, Chuo Park, and around Meganebashi Bridge. As you may have guessed, the festival originates from celebrations of the Chinese Lunar New Year.
Because it originated from the Spring Festival, the lanterns are not Western-style but traditional, vividly colored Chinese lanterns. Not only do colorful lanterns fill the streets, but large-scale sculptures and decorations are also displayed, creating an exotic atmosphere that embodies Nagasaki’s international charm. During the event period, various performances such as Chinese acrobatics, erhu concerts, and dragon dances are held daily across venues. Of course, there are also food events, making it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Nagasaki in winter.
Name: Nagasaki Lantern Festival
Address: Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kankodori Arcade, Chuo Park, etc.
Official Website: http://www.at-nagasaki.jp/festival/lantern/
3. Experience the world’s largest illumination — “Huis Ten Bosch”
Huis Ten Bosch is Nagasaki’s most famous tourist attraction. Every winter, it hosts the “Kingdom of Light” event. It has ranked No. 1 in Japan’s national illumination rankings for four consecutive years since 2013 — a testament to its popularity.
Featuring over 13 million lights, it’s recognized as the world’s largest illumination display — truly breathtaking. The vast grounds of Huis Ten Bosch are almost entirely covered in a sea of light, creating an overwhelming and magical spectacle. It’s no exaggeration to call it the Kingdom of Light — a must-see for visitors.
Name: Huis Ten Bosch
Address: Huis Ten Bosch-cho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Official Website: http://www.huistenbosch.co.jp
4. Feast on Hirado’s seafood — “Hirado Flounder Festival”
Another must-visit winter attraction in Nagasaki is the Hirado Flounder Festival. As the name suggests, it’s a festival held in Hirado City, known for its rich seafood harvests. The city is one of Japan’s top producers of natural flounder, and winter marks the peak season. To celebrate, local restaurants and inns across the city host this event, where visitors can enjoy delicious flounder dishes at great prices.
The festival isn’t confined to one venue; rather, it takes place across multiple dining and lodging establishments in Hirado. Each offers its own unique flounder dishes, making it fun to go on a culinary tour from one place to another.
Name: Hirado Flounder Festival
Address: Restaurants and inns throughout Hirado City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Official Website: http://www.nagasaki-tabinet.com/event/51283/
◎ Summary
There are many sightseeing spots in Nagasaki that can be enjoyed even in winter. The ones introduced here are just a few examples, but they highlight Nagasaki’s rich blend of gourmet delights and cultural events. You can warm up in a hot spring, savor seasonal seafood, or enjoy dazzling illuminations — especially the winter light displays, which have become one of Nagasaki’s hidden specialties. If you’re visiting in winter, be sure to check them out!