Nagasaki – Shimabara Tour: 6.5-Hour Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Journey beyond the city limits of Nagasaki to discover Shimabara, a coastal town where the elegance of the Samurai era meets the awe-inspiring power of nature. This 6.5-hour excursion is a curated exploration of resilience and tradition, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Unzen and the Ariake Sea. From the towering white walls of a feudal fortress to the hauntingly preserved remains of a volcanic disaster, this tour offers a deep, multi-layered look at Japanese history.

Designed for guests on the Diamond Princess or Spectrum of the Seas docking at the Nagasaki Cruise Terminal, this “Sightseeing & Culture” explorer utilizes a private chartered vehicle to comfortably bridge the distance to the Shimabara Peninsula. With our “Back-to-Ship Guarantee,” you can step back into the Edo period and explore the “City of Water” with total confidence in a punctual return to your ship.

Highlights

• Shimabara Castle: Explore a magnificent five-story white castle housing rare Christian artifacts and Samurai armor, offering panoramic views of the peninsula.
• Buke-Yashiki (Samurai District): Walk through a perfectly preserved residential quarter where crystal-clear spring water still flows through the stone-lined streets.
• Mudslide Damaged House Preservation Park: Witness the somber and powerful sight of homes buried by the 1991 eruption of Mt. Unzen, preserved exactly as they were found.
• Samurai Heritage: Visit former warrior residences to see authentic tatami rooms and tranquil gardens that whisper stories of the 17th century.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: Enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Ariake Sea and the volcanic peaks of Unzen during your private transfer.

Complete Details

Your Shimabara discovery begins with a warm welcome at the Nagasaki Port terminal. Your licensed English-speaking guide and driver will meet you at the pier to begin the scenic drive toward the Shimabara Peninsula.

The tour starts at Shimabara Castle. Rebuilt in 1964, this majestic fortress is famous for its massive stone walls and moats. Inside, you will discover the tragic yet fascinating history of the Shimabara Rebellion and the “hidden Christians” of Kyushu. Next, we visit Buke-Yashiki, the old Samurai district. Here, you can enter preserved homes and imagine the life of a high-ranking warrior while listening to the soothing sound of the town’s famous spring water running through the streets.

The afternoon takes a moving turn at the Mudslide Damaged House Preservation Park. This site serves as a “frozen in time” memorial to the 1991 volcanic eruption, showcasing the incredible force of nature and the resilience of the local people who rebuilt their community. Finally, relax in your private vehicle as we drive you back to the Nagasaki cruise terminal, arriving well before your “all aboard” time.

Booking with Jasumo

To book this private Shimabara excursion or to customize the itinerary to include the Mount Unzen Ropeway, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants will verify your ship’s docking schedule to ensure a seamless experience.

Jasumo also provides Destination Management Company (DMC) services, offering end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers, travel agencies, and luxury group tours.

Complimentary 10GB eSIM with Every Jasumo Tour Booking

When you book your tour through Jasumo, we make your journey even smoother by giving you a free 10GB eSIM. Stay connected across the Shimabara Peninsula from the moment you arrive—use maps to find the best local “Guzoni” soup, message your group, and share your castle photos instantly without worrying about finding Wi-Fi. It’s our way of ensuring a stress-free and fully connected travel experience.

FAQs

How far is Shimabara from Nagasaki Port?

Shimabara is approximately 75 to 90 minutes from the Nagasaki cruise terminal. Our 6.5-hour tour is specifically designed to include the travel time while ensuring you have ample time at each historical site.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Shimabara Castle has an elevator to help guests reach the top floors, and the Samurai district features flat, paved streets. The Mudslide Park is also easily accessible. However, please let us know in advance if you have specific mobility needs so we can optimize the route.

What is the best thing to eat in Shimabara?

Shimabara is famous for Guzoni, a hearty soup filled with mochi, vegetables, and local seafood. Your guide can recommend a traditional restaurant near the castle where you can try this local specialty.

Is entrance to the castle included?

Yes, your tour price includes entrance fees for Shimabara Castle, the Samurai residences, and the Preservation Park.

Does the “Back-to-Ship Guarantee” cover the drive back?

Yes. Our drivers and guides are local experts who monitor traffic and ship schedules in real-time. We always build in a significant buffer to ensure you are back at the pier at least 1 hour before departure.

Location