Nagasaki is one of Japan's best-known international cruise ports, with ships berthing close to the historic city centre at the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal.
The established Matsugae cruise quay is approximately 410m long with 12m water depth, providing a substantial alongside facility for large international cruise ships. The terminal also contains major customs, immigration and quarantine facilities.
Nagasaki Prefecture and Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism are developing Matsugae into a two-berth cruise facility. The project is intended to increase capacity for large cruise ships, but the additional berth was still described as under development in 2026. Deck7 therefore records one operational cruise berth rather than prematurely awarding Nagasaki a second BONUS BERTH.
The terminal's location is excellent for visitors. Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral are nearby, while Nagasaki's tram network provides easy access to Dejima, central shopping areas, Nagasaki Station and the city's wider historic attractions.
Nagasaki has a long maritime history and a naturally sheltered harbour. Its combination of deep-water cruise infrastructure and immediate access to the city has made it one of Japan's important international cruise destinations.