Where to watch dolphins up-close in Japan?
One of the most unique things you can do in Kyushu, is to “swim” with dolphins. Not literally, but this is as close as you can get to a pod of dolphins.
All you need to know about Minamishimabara Dolphin Watching
We took a speedboat 30 minutes out into the sea, where we were greeted by pods of dolphins. We saw about 50 of them, and even witnessed one of them jump out of the sea!
Tickets cost ¥2,700 per person online, and ¥3,000 per person if you buy in person.
We boarded the ship from Minamishimabara, a city in Southern Nagasaki. The attraction on Google Map is literally “Minamishimabara Dolphin Watching”. But, I’m sure this is also available in other ports around the Ariake Sea, such as Amakusa, a different coastal city in Kyushu.
Things to note at this attraction
- You must wear a life jacket on board
- No touching or feeding the dolphins
- Phone strap or lanyard is recommended as you might accidentally drop your phone in the ocean
Other attractions in Nagasaki
You’re likely planning a roadtrip in Kyushu, starting from Fukuoka City. Hence, on the way down to Nagasaki, we recommend checking out Tosu City and Huis Ten Bosch’s newest Jurassic Island attraction in Sasebo City.
Meanwhile, if you’re already in Nagasaki, popular tourist attractions include the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, and Gunkanjima Museum. If you have the time, you can also travel to Gunkanjima, an off-shore island.
Location: Minamishimabara, Kuchinotsucho, Nagasaki, Hei−4358-6, 859-2504
Nagasaki
Opening hours: 8:30am-4pm
Planning a trip to Japan?
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