Despite being a relatively small Japanese city with a somewhat dark past, Nagasaki punches way above its weight when it comes to bars and nightlife. This ranges from expensive sake joints to expat hangouts and the infamous coin bars that are frankly epic.
In fact things are so good here not only is it worth making a beeline for, but we would suggest visiting all seven best bars in Nagasaki that we recommend.
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Where to drink in Nagasaki
Nagasaki’s nightlife is packed into a few tight areas that are perfect for walking from bar to bar. The main hub is around Shianbashi and Doza-machi where a maze of narrow lanes fills up after dark with izakayas, small bars, shot places, and standing pubs. This is where locals gather after work and where visitors find those tiny hidden bars tucked between restaurants and snack spots.
Another popular area is around Dejima and the harbour, near Motoshikkuimachi and Hamamachi. Here there are more sit-down lounges and cocktail spots with views of the water or late night vibes that spill into the early morning.
The best way to drink in Nagasaki is simple: walk the streets, hit a few spots in Shianbashi, then wander towards the harbour and Hamamachi as the night unfolds. Every district has something different to offer and the compact layout means you can do all of this in a single night without a taxi.
The 7 Best Bars in Nagasaki
7. Best Bars in Nagasaki
A simple bar in Shianbashi where you can start slow, grab a beer or basic cocktail, and get your bearings before the night proper kicks off.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市思案橋
Address in English: Shianbashi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
6. Bar Strand
A slightly more polished sit-down bar with a decent selection of spirits and seating that lets you take a breath mid-crawl before moving on.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市思案橋周辺
Address in English: Around Shianbashi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
5. Bar Nagare
Small and unpretentious with friendly locals. Drinks are straightforward and strong, and the atmosphere is welcoming for first-timers and regulars alike.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市浜町11-2 2F
Address in English: 11-2 Hamamachi 2F, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
4. Irish Pub Nagasaki from Mallaig
A western-style pub with proper pints and large tables. Good for mixing with fellow travellers and taking a break from the typical Japanese bar scene.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市大黒町2-1
Address in English: 2-1 Daikokumachi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
3. Daisyhill
A Shianbashi favourite with a chilled vibe and a wide range of drinks. Easy to stay longer than planned because of the good pours and friendly crowd. Initially planned to give this haunt its own article.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市本石灰町2-22
Address in English: 2-22 Honsekkai-machi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
2. Victor
A proper late-night bar where cocktails are made with care. Popular with locals and visitors who want something a bit more lively after the early spots close.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市本石灰町5-13 2F
Address in English: 5-13 Moto Shikkuimachi 2F, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
1. Tatanbaa
The legendary coin bar. You put money in a bowl up front and the bartender makes drinks while you stand and chat with whoever is next to you. Chaotic, fun, cheap, and a must-visit for anyone wanting the real Nagasaki bar experience. One of my favourite (https://www.thestreetfoodguy.com/tatanbaa-best-bar-in-nagasaki/) bars on the planet.
Address in Japanese: 長崎県長崎市船大工町1-1
Address in English: 1-1 Funadaikumachi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Of course the are more things to do in Nagasaki than just drink, but when nightfall does come drinking here is a pretty damned good thing to do.
You can drink here and more on one of my Japan Tours with YPT!