The fascinating city of Nagasaki showcases its complex history through several well-crafted tours. I’m especially impressed by the Cultural and WWII History Tour, which takes you beyond the typical tourist spots to authentic wartime locations and beautiful viewpoints. The Historical Street Walking Tour is another gem – it’s the best way to understand local life while exploring hidden temples and backstreets.
For craft lovers, two excellent pottery experiences stand out: the Hasami Ware tours (both single-day and 2-day options) offer hands-on learning about this centuries-old tradition. Religious history buffs will appreciate the private UNESCO church tours in Sotome, where Christianity survived in secret for generations.
Let’s explore my top picks for experiencing Nagasaki’s remarkable past.
Good To Know
The Nagasaki Cultural and WWII History Tour offers a comprehensive, 5-star rated experience that explores lesser-known WWII sites and Nagasaki’s cultural landmarks.
The Taste Local Life: Nagasaki’s Historical Street Walking Tour provides an intimate, half-day exploration of the city’s rich history and culture, engaging with local shops and hidden gems.
The Hasami Ware Study Tour with a special guide offers an in-depth look at the 400-year-old pottery tradition, including guided visits to workshops and studios.
The 4-Hour Private Tour: The Sotome and World Heritage Churches takes visitors to UNESCO-recognized churches, with a private, English-speaking guide and lunch included.
The Hasami Ware 2-Day Tour with a special guide provides an immersive, two-day experience delving into the pottery tradition, including meals, onsen visit, and transportation.
Nagasaki Cultural and WW2 History Tour
The Nagasaki Cultural and WW2 History Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich heritage and its profound connection to the events of World War II.
Priced at $613.19 per group (up to 4 people), this 5-star rated tour provides an immersive experience, with a knowledgeable guide leading guests to lesser-known WWII sites, a Sohonzan Shrine, a sake brewery, and the scenic Mount Insasa Lookout.
Lunch, beverages, and transportation are included, and the tour is accessible for strollers.
With a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this tour promises a personalized and memorable exploration of Nagasaki’s captivating culture and history.
Read our full review: Nagasaki Cultural and WW2 History Tour Review
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Taste Local Life: Nagasakis Historical Street Walking Tour
What better way to explore the rich history and local culture of Nagasaki than through a guided walking tour? The “Taste Local Life: Nagasaki’s Historical Street Walking Tour” offers just that, taking travelers on a half-day journey through the city’s captivating streets.
Led by professional guides, the tour visits Sofukuji and Kofukuji Temples, explores lively shopping districts, and culminates at the iconic Megane-bashi (Spectacles Bridge).
With a maximum group size of 8, this immersive experience allows participants to engage with local shops and snacks, while uncovering hidden gems not found in guidebooks.
Praised for exceptional service, this tour is a must for anyone seeking an authentic Nagasaki adventure.
Read our full review: Taste Local Life: Nagasakis Historical Street Walking Tour Review
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Hasami Ware Study Tour With Special Guide 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery
Travelers seeking to explore the rich history and modern relevance of Nagasaki’s renowned Hasami ware pottery can embark on the “Hasami Ware Study Tour With Special Guide.”
This immersive half-day experience, operated by 株式会社ＶＩＳＩＴ九州, offers an in-depth exploration of this 400-year-old craft.
With a maximum of 6 participants, the tour includes guided visits to Hasami’s pottery workshops and studios, allowing guests to witness the creation of these timeless pieces.
Lunch, transportation, and a knowledgeable tour guide are all included in the $97.83 per person price.
Whether you’re an avid pottery enthusiast or simply curious about this cultural heritage, this tour promises an engaging and insightful look into the world of Hasami ware.
Read our full review: Hasami Ware Study Tour With Special Guide 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery Review
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4-Hour Private Tour The Sotome and World Heritage Churches
This private nature and history tour from Kumamoto, Japan, invites travelers to explore the Sotome region and its UNESCO-recognized churches.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour provides private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and lunch. Visitors will meet at the Kumamoto Ferry and return to the same location.
The tour starts promptly at 9 am, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. Despite the small group size, most travelers can participate, including infants up to 5 years old.
Confirmation is within 48 hours, and the tour is non-refundable. Priced at $374.73 per person, this experience offers a glimpse into Nagasaki’s rich history and natural wonders.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Tour The Sotome and World Heritage Churches Review
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Experience Hasami Ware With Professionals 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery
Immersing oneself in the centuries-old tradition of Hasami Ware, visitors to Nagasaki, Japan, can experience the art of modern daily use pottery.
This 400-year-old pottery tradition offers a guided tour, including a hands-on pottery experience, lunch, and transportation.
Situated just minutes from the Hasami/Arita interchange, the tour’s meeting point at Kurawankan provides easy access.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, the experience promises an intimate, personalized exploration of this rich cultural heritage.
At $125.79 per person, this non-refundable tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s pottery legacy and create one’s own Hasami Ware piece.
Read our full review: Experience Hasami Ware With Professionals 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery Review
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Hasami Ware 2-Day Tour With Special Guide 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery
Explore the rich 400-year-old tradition of Hasami Ware pottery during this immersive two-day tour in Nagasaki, Japan.
Priced from $188.67 per person, this small-group tour (max 6 travelers) offers an insider’s look at this iconic local craft with a special guide.
Enjoy meals, a visit to an onsen, and transportation during the tour.
The meeting point is Kurawankan, a 15-minute taxi ride from the nearest train station.
While not wheelchair accessible, this tour is suitable for most travelers.
Don’t miss this chance to explore Hasami Ware’s history and experience its modern applications in daily life.
Read our full review: Hasami Ware 2-Day Tour With Special Guide 400 Years History and Modern Daily Use Pottery Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for the WW2 History Tour?
Visitors on the WW2 history tour should follow safety guidelines, such as wearing appropriate footwear, staying with the group, and following the tour guide’s instructions. Participants should also be prepared for walking and weather conditions during the tour.
Can I Take Photographs During the Local Life Street Walking Tour?
Yes, you can take photographs during the local life street walking tour. The tour guides generally encourage visitors to capture the vibrant street scenes and interactions with the locals to enhance their cultural experience.
Do I Need Prior Experience for the Pottery Study and Hands-On Tour?
No prior experience is necessary for the pottery study and hands-on tour. The tour is designed for all skill levels, and the instructors will guide you through the process of creating your own pottery piece.
Are the Church Sites Wheelchair Accessible on the Private Tour?
The church sites on the private tour are generally wheelchair accessible, though accessibility may vary between individual locations. Visitors are advised to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking the tour to ensure their needs can be accommodated.
Can I Extend the 2-Day Pottery Tour to Include More Activities?
You can extend the 2-day pottery tour to include more activities. The tour provider is flexible and can customize the itinerary to accommodate your interests, such as visiting additional cultural sites or participating in other hands-on experiences.
The Sum Up
Nagasaki offers a range of historical tours that explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and its role in World War II. Visitors can discover the unique Hasami ware pottery tradition, visit World Heritage churches, and enjoy the local way of life. These tours provide an insightful look into Nagasaki’s past and present, appealing to history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.