A Must-Visit for Couples: A Nostalgic Mini-Trip to Nagasaki, Japan — Find Romantic Heart-Shaped Stones at Meganebashi Bridge

▲ Meganebashi is a famous sightseeing spot in Nagasaki.

Reporter Chen Hanyin / Reported and photographed in Japan

Nagasaki City, located on Kyushu Island in Japan, is one of the country’s major port cities in the west. The clang of streetcars carries travelers as they explore this nostalgic and elegant city. In Nagasaki, the streetcar is the most convenient mode of transport. Hop on board and enjoy the scenery rolling by the window. This land, shaped by centuries of history and interwoven with diverse cultures, boasts a nostalgic beauty and contrast worth exploring in detail.

▲ The streetcars add a touch of exotic charm to the city.

Ōura Church (おおうらてんしゅどう)
Address: 5-3 Minamiyamatemachi, Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture 850-0931, Japan
Streetcar: Get off at Ōura Church Stop

▲ Built in 1864, Ōura Church is officially named “Church of the 26 Martyrs of Japan.”

Thanks to its geographical location, Nagasaki developed early maritime trade and had contact with the Netherlands and China, deeply influenced by Western culture. The streets are filled with European-style buildings, and there is also no shortage of Catholic believers. Ōura Church is the only Western-style structure among Japan’s national treasures and is also the oldest existing church in Japan. To reach it, you must walk up a short slope. Visiting in autumn or winter offers the added charm of red leaves lining the stone steps, setting the ancient church in a poetic light.

▲ The stairs look particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season.

Meganebashi Bridge
Address: 0850-0874 Nagasaki Prefecture, Nagasaki, Uonotamachi
Streetcar: Get off at Kokaidomae Station

▲ Meganebashi is famous for the unique shape of its reflection.

Meganebashi is one of Japan’s three most famous bridges and also the oldest stone arch bridge in the country. Its most distinctive feature is the two connected circular arches that, when reflected on the water’s surface, resemble the shape of glasses—hence the name. The best spot to photograph the bridge is from underneath it, though the weather plays a key role. On rainy days, the blurred water reflection can prevent the full double-circle shape from showing clearly. Interestingly, beneath the stone bridge piers lie three heart-shaped “love stones,” making it a perfect destination for couples on a romantic quest.

▲ Three love stones are hidden under the stone piers.

Shopping Street: Sightseeing Street, Shianbashi – Tsuan Ramen
Tsuan Ramen Shop Address: 0850-0853 Nagasaki Prefecture, Nagasaki, Hamacho 6-17

▲ Tsuan Ramen is located on the main road at the other end of the shopping street.

A short walk from near Meganebashi will take you to the bustling shopping street. Here you’ll find must-buy Nagasaki treats such as Castella cake, available at long-established shops like Bunmeido, Fukusaya, and Izumiya. After shopping, stop by this ramen shop near the road to warm up your stomach. Nagasaki Tsuan Ramen is known for its generous portions of vegetables, meat, and seafood. Unlike typical Japanese ramen which often has a Chinese influence, this version features a rich broth and hearty toppings that are extremely satisfying.

▲ Don’t miss the soy-simmered dishes—takoyaki and radish are especially flavorful.

▲ Tsuan Ramen is super filling with lots of ingredients.

Japan’s Three Great Night Views

▲ Enjoy the latest three great night views of Japan from a Costa Cruise ship.

Along with Kobe and Sapporo, Nagasaki is ranked among Japan’s newest trio of cities famed for their night views. The most famous spot to enjoy Nagasaki’s night scenery is “Yamazato Mountain,” where visitors can take a cable car to the mountaintop and gaze at the panoramic cityscape. If you’re on a cruise, you can admire the million-dollar night view right from the ship, savoring the sea breeze on deck while taking in the illuminated Japanese harbor.