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A must-visit on any Nagasaki tour is the night view from Inasayama. Recognized as one of Japan’s top three nightscapes and among the New World’s top three nightscapes, Inasayama’s view is truly deserving of the title “million-dollar night view.” From the 333-meter summit, Nagasaki’s cityscape sparkles like a jewelry box, captivating all who visit.
This article thoroughly explains the allure of Inasayama’s night view, how to enjoy it, and how to get there. From the changing views seen from the ropeway, the breathtaking panorama from the observatory, to the magical blue-lit walking trails, there are many ways to enjoy the nightscape of Inasayama. Whether visiting with a partner for a romantic memory or with family to deepen bonds, it is sure to be unforgettable.
Let’s fully enjoy Japan’s proud million-dollar nightscape!
The night view from Inasayama is counted among Japan’s top three nightscapes and the New World’s top three nightscapes. Located at the 333-meter summit, Inasayama Park is known as an excellent viewpoint for overlooking Nagasaki city. At night, the cityscape transforms into a myriad of sparkling lights, resembling a spilled jewelry box.
The view from Inasayama Park is indeed beautiful enough to be called a “million-dollar night view.” Easily accessible from downtown Nagasaki, this spot offers unforgettable memories for all who visit.
The night view of Inasayama gained the “million-dollar night view” title when Robert Mitchum, chairman of the World Urban Landscape Awards, praised its value during the awards in 1985.
At the summit, countless lights begin to shine as night falls. In front of you, the city of Nagasaki spreads out like scattered jewels, with the calm sea visible in the distance.
The view includes historical spots like Nagasaki Port, Dejima, and the Shinchi Chinatown, standing out even under the veil of night. The unique scenery of Nagasaki Port with its curved shape and surrounding lights creates a distinct charm not found in other cities. The port, spread like a black mirror, reflects the lights in a mysterious way that is captivating.
This breathtaking night view, when shared with a loved one, guarantees a romantic memory. Many couples visit, and it is also a popular spot for proposals. For families, taking commemorative photos with the nightscape in the background is recommended.
The night view from Inasayama Park is stunning, but did you know there’s a hidden treat within it? Every night from 8:00 pm to 9:50 pm, a heart mark and constellations related to Nagasaki’s history appear as part of a magical light display on the hillside.
This display is created by placing 35 LED lights that glow in 8 colors on the streetlight poles and other structures on the hillside. The heart mark lights up for 5 minutes every 30 minutes, while the constellations light up for 5 minutes every 15 minutes, adding an extra charm to the night view of Inasayama.
The constellations, such as the “Dove Constellation” symbolizing peace and the “Dragon Constellation” reminiscent of Nagasaki Kunchi festival floats, are chosen to reflect Nagasaki’s history and culture. The sight of these constellations floating in the night sky feels like Nagasaki’s story is being painted on the stars.
Couples may find the heart mark and pledge eternal love, while families and friends can enjoy searching for the constellations, appreciating Nagasaki’s history and culture.
The charm of Inasayama Park isn’t limited to its night view. Did you know the walking trail from the ropeway to the observatory is lit in blue?
While the night view of Inasayama is famous as a “million-dollar night view,” the blue-lit walking trail from the ropeway to the observatory enhances its appeal. This enchanting path gives a sense of entering another world, offering a special experience to visitors.
The blue-lit trail presents a completely different face of Inasayama from the daytime. Coupled with the nighttime tranquility, the blue light illuminating the path gives the illusion of walking among the stars. As you follow this illuminated path to the observatory, your anticipation grows, making the beauty of the night view from the summit even more striking.
For couples and families, this lighted trail creates a perfect stage for a memorable time at Inasayama. The romantic atmosphere created by the blue lights is sure to elevate your feelings.
For those visiting Inasayama Park to see the night view, arriving about 30 minutes before sunset to enjoy the magic hour is highly recommended. The scenery transitions from orange to purple, and as the sun sets, the city lights of Nagasaki gradually start to glow.
Enjoy the magic hour before sunset, and then the night view after sunset.
Inasayama Park has restaurants and cafes, so you can take a break there and head back to the observatory at 8 PM to enjoy the even more illuminated night view and find the heart-shaped lights.
With this plan, you can fully experience Inasayama’s night view, one of Japan’s top three nightscapes and one of the New World’s top three nightscapes.
There are two ways to access Inasayama Park Observatory:
To take the ropeway to Inasayama Park Observatory, board the ropeway at Fuchijinja Station.
The entrance to Fuchijinja Station is marked by a torii gate, making it easy to find.
Passing through the torii gate leads directly to Fuchijinja Station, where the ropeway boarding area is located.
Purchase your tickets at the reception and board the ropeway.
The recommended ways to get to Fuchijinja Station are by bus or taxi.
The Nagasaki Ropeway Free Shuttle Bus runs between JR Nagasaki Station and five hotels, stopping at Fuchijinja Station. It also departs from the ropeway station and offers free round-trip rides.
The Nagasaki Ropeway Free Shuttle Bus requires reservations in advance. Reservations can be made from noon on the day until 30 minutes before the departure time of each bus (departure time from Hotel Belleview Nagasaki Dejima).
Nagasaki Ropeway Free Shuttle Bus Reservation
The bus timetable can be checked below.
Free Shuttle Bus - Inasayama Park Official Site
The JR Nagasaki Station departure timetable is as follows:
The drawback of this bus is that it does not run early, so it won’t be in time to see the magic hour just before sunset.
You can also take a city bus operated by Nagasaki Bus directly to the Ropeway Fuchi Shrine Station or Inasayama Park. Although it is a paid service, it is an affordable way to travel, and buses run around sunset, making it possible to arrive in time for the magic hour.
To go to the Ropeway Fuchi Shrine Station, take the Shimooohashi, Koebaru, or Aikawa line (routes 3 and 4) and get off at the “Ropeway Mae” bus stop. (Travel time: 6 minutes, fare: 160 yen)
To go directly to Inasayama Park, take the Inasayama line (route 5) and get off at the final stop, “Inasayama Koen” bus stop. (Travel time: 15 minutes, fare: 190 yen)
You can check the timetable on the Nagasaki Bus “Easy Route Search”.
Since it’s about a 10-minute drive from Nagasaki Station, taking a taxi is a wise choice if the bus schedule doesn’t match. The fare is around 1,300 yen.
There are many taxis operating in front of Nagasaki Station, making it easy to catch a ride. When I actually used the service, the fares were as follows:
If you’re traveling by private car or rental car, there is parking available at Inasayama Park, allowing you to drive directly to the observatory.
While you can drive to the observatory by rental car or taxi, taking the ropeway to the observatory is recommended if you’re visiting Nagasaki.
The view of Nagasaki’s cityscape from the ropeway as you ascend is stunning.
Near Fuchijinja Station is a stadium with bright lights for night games, but as the ropeway ascends, the stadium lights become smaller, and the city lights start to look more beautiful.
The night view from the ropeway and the view from the observatory are completely different. Therefore, taking the ropeway to the observatory allows you to enjoy Nagasaki’s night view twice.
The previously mentioned Nagasaki Ropeway Free Shuttle Bus departs from Fuchijinja Station at the following times:
If you arrive earlier and can’t wait for the above times, you can take a bus from the “Ropeway-mae” bus stop, about a 1-2 minute walk from Fuchijinja Station, back to Nagasaki Station.
The timetable for the “Ropeway-mae” bus stop (towards Nagasaki Station) can be checked below.
Nagasaki Bus 'Ropeway - mae' Bus Stop Timetable (Towards Nagasaki Station) [PDF]
The night view from Inasayama is a highlight of Nagasaki tourism and one of Japan’s most beautiful nightscapes. Gazing at the beautiful night view worth a million dollars with someone special will surely create lifelong memories.
Ascend the mountain while enjoying the night view from the ropeway, take in the panorama of Nagasaki from the observatory, and stroll along the blue-lit walking trail, immersing yourself in the tranquil night air. The night view from Inasayama provides visitors with both awe and serenity.
For couples, it promises a romantic moment. Find the heart-shaped illumination and pledge eternal love. For families, taking commemorative photos against the beautiful night view and searching for constellations will surely deepen your bonds.
Experience the fusion of Nagasaki’s history, culture, and beautiful nature with the night view of Inasayama. This inspiring experience is a must-see, leaving a lasting impression on your heart.
