Exploring the Historical Charms of Nagasaki with Family

Penguins and Peaks in Nagasaki

Today was a delightful mix of aquatic charm and scenic vistas. I always find that a change of scenery does wonders, and today’s itinerary was perfectly balanced between the wonders of marine life and the tranquility of elevated viewpoints. It's days like these that remind me why I love exploring new places, especially with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yoshinoya. I opted for the classic beef bowl, a reliable and tasty start to the day. Erika chose the salmon teishoku, while Lena decided on natto with rice. Yoshinoya never disappoints; it’s a quick, affordable, and satisfying way to fuel up before a day of exploring. It’s funny, even though I grew up in Japan, sometimes I crave the familiar taste of a Yoshinoya beef bowl just as much as the more traditional fare.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Yoshinoya in Nagasaki - home of delicious gyudon and fast meals perfect for every traveler.

With our stomachs full, we headed to the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. I’ve always had a soft spot for penguins, and this place was a true delight. The aquarium is home to an impressive variety of penguin species – nine out of the eighteen found worldwide! There were about 180 penguins waddling, swimming, and generally being adorable. The Subantarctic Penguin Pool was particularly impressive, one of the largest in Japan, allowing the penguins to swim freely in a spacious environment. Lena was particularly enchanted by the Little Penguins, the smallest species in the world. Erika, ever the observer, enjoyed watching the penguins interact with each other, noting their distinct personalities and behaviors.


Explore the enchanting world of marine life at Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium, where penguins and oceanic wonders await every visitor.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The aquarium also featured a ‘Penguin Beach’ where penguins could swim in a natural sea environment, a unique initiative that I found fascinating. In addition to the penguins, we explored exhibits featuring Mekong giant catfish and schools of Japanese anchovies, offering a broader glimpse into marine life. We even spent some time in the Biotope Zone, observing local flora and fauna, a nice touch that grounded the aquarium in its regional context. I was impressed by how well-maintained and informative the aquarium was. It’s clear that the staff are passionate about their work, and their dedication to the penguins’ well-being shines through. We spent a good few hours there, and it was a highlight for all of us.

After the penguins, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Nagasaki Shippoku Hamakatsu, a restaurant known for its Shippoku cuisine. Shippoku is a unique Nagasaki culinary style that blends Japanese, Chinese, and Dutch influences. The restaurant itself had a charming atmosphere. We opted for a lunch set, which included a variety of small dishes served on a large plate. It was a delightful experience, trying different flavors and textures, each dish telling a story of Nagasaki’s multicultural history. The braised pork was particularly memorable, tender and flavorful with a hint of sweetness. Shippoku Hamakatsu provided a delightful culinary experience, and I was glad to introduce Erika and Lena to this unique aspect of Nagasaki’s food culture.


Discover the flavors of Nagasaki at Shippoku Hamakatsu – where traditional Japanese cuisine meets regional specialties.

Next on our itinerary was the Third Observation Plaza. After a bit of a tram ride and a short taxi journey from Takashimamachi, we arrived at the plaza, ready to soak in the panoramic views. The plaza offered stunning vistas of Nagasaki’s unique landscape – the rolling hills, the bustling harbor, and the cityscape stretching out before us. It was a perfect spot for reflection, taking in the beauty and history of this remarkable city. I pointed out landmarks to Erika and Lena, sharing stories and facts I had learned about Nagasaki’s past. The breeze was refreshing, and the atmosphere was tranquil, providing a welcome respite from the busier tourist spots. It’s moments like these, standing atop a hill, gazing out at the world, that make me feel truly connected to a place.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Third Observation Plaza, a must-visit tourist attraction in Nagasaki, Japan.

Before dinner, we made a stop at Don Quijote Hamanomachi. This discount store is a treasure trove of everything from beauty supplies to electronics, and Lena was particularly excited to browse through the cosmetics section. Erika was on the lookout for some unique souvenirs, while I was simply curious to see what quirky items I could find. Don Quijote is always an adventure, a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and products. We ended up buying a few snacks, some local crafts, and a couple of amusing gadgets that caught our eye.


Discover the eclectic charm of Don Quijote Hamanomachi, a vibrant discount store in Nagasaki, offering everything from beauty supplies to unique souvenirs.

For dinner, we indulged in a meal at Shikairou Chinese Restaurant. This restaurant is famous for being the birthplace of Champon, a Nagasaki noodle dish that I’ve always loved. The restaurant itself has a rich history, dating back to 1899, and the dining room offers stunning views of the harbor. We all ordered Champon, eager to taste the original version of this iconic dish. The noodles were thick and chewy, the broth was rich and flavorful, and the toppings – pork, seafood, and vegetables – were perfectly balanced. It was a satisfying and comforting meal, a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery. After dinner, we briefly explored the small Champon museum located on the second floor of the restaurant, learning more about the dish’s origins and evolution.


Experience the rich flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine at Shikairou Restaurant in Nagasaki - where tradition meets modern taste.

As we headed back to the Richmond Hotel Nagasaki Shianbashi, I reflected on the day’s adventures. From the playful penguins to the panoramic vistas, from the Shippoku cuisine to the bustling discount store, today was a microcosm of Nagasaki’s diverse and captivating character. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Erika and Lena, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Dutch Slope and Nagasaki Seaside Park, continuing our journey through this fascinating city. I am also keen to visit the IRISH PUB TEMPLEBAR for a nightcap. I am curious to see how an Irish Pub thrives in Japan. I think Erika will be happy to have a taste of Europe again.


Experience comfort and convenience at Richmond Hotel Nagasaki Shianbashi, your ideal base for exploring Nagasaki's rich culture and history.

I am so grateful that I get to share these experiences with my family, and that I can document them here for everyone to enjoy! I hope you all will continue to join me on this journey!