Find hotels in Shimabara from £40

Top reasons to visit Shimabara

• Shimabara Castle: A stunning historical site surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
• Shimabara Onsen: Relax and rejuvenate in the famous hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Shimabara Arena: Enjoy family-friendly entertainment and events in this modern venue, catering to various interests.
• Shimabara Peninsula: Discover picturesque views and rich heritage, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Diverse Accommodation: Experience a blend of traditional ryokans and modern hotels, many featuring hot spring facilities.

Find great hotels in and around Shimabara

Discover a range of accommodation options in Shimabara, Nagasaki Prefecture, where you can enjoy a unique blend of traditional hospitality and modern comforts. From charming ryokans to contemporary hotels, many establishments offer hot spring, golf, and spa-themed experiences. Whether you're looking for a cosy hotel by the seaside or a serene retreat in the heart of Shimabara, you’re sure to find the ideal base for your Japanese adventure.

• Obama-onsen Hamakan Hotel: Nestled 6.8km from Shimabara, Obama-onsen Hamakan Hotel offers a serene retreat ideal for those seeking a hot spring themed getaway. This 3-star accommodation features a natural hot spring, providing guests with the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in soothing waters. The hotel boasts an onsite hot spring and a public indoor ryokan onsen, ensuring a unique Japanese cultural experience. The tranquil atmosphere combined with the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs makes it a perfect choice for travellers looking to unwind amidst nature.
• Shimabara Station Hotel: Located conveniently in the heart of Shimabara, the 3-star Shimabara Station Hotel provides easy access to the local attractions. It shines with its dining options, offering a variety of breakfast selections tailored for all tastes, including wrapped breakfast items and to-go options. For entertainment, guests can enjoy pay movies and flatscreen TVs in their rooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This hotel is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of convenience and comfort during their trip.
• Hotel Seaside Shimabara: Just a stone’s throw from the picturesque coastline of Shimabara, Hotel Seaside Shimabara is a 3.5-star property perfect for hot spring aficionados. This hotel features both indoor and outdoor public ryokan onsens, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings while enjoying the health benefits of the hot springs. The hotel’s seaside location not only enhances the relaxing atmosphere but also offers stunning views, making it an inviting retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Where to stay near Shimabara

Shimabara offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the stunning Shimabara Peninsula, where you can discover picturesque landscapes and rich heritage. Don't miss the rejuvenating Shimabara Onsen, ideal for relaxation after a day of adventure. With its convenient location in Nagasaki Prefecture, Shimabara serves as a gateway to experience the region's historical charm and vibrant atmosphere.

• Unzen: Situated approximately 6.2km from Shimabara, Unzen is a charming city renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The area is particularly popular with families and those seeking thrilling experiences. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including exploring the local hot springs and theme park. The resort and recreational areas provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled family getaway. Unzen's scenic views and unique attractions, such as its famous onsens, promise a memorable travel experience.
• Nagasu: Located about 5.6km from Shimabara, Nagasu is a vibrant city that combines modernity with family-friendly activities. The city sees a steady flow of visitors, particularly during March to April and July. Nagasu is known for its shopping centres and recreational spaces, making it a great destination for those looking to indulge in retail therapy or enjoy outdoor activities. The presence of parks and modern civic buildings adds to the city's allure, providing a unique backdrop for both leisure and business-themed trips.
• Arie-machi: Just 5.6km from Shimabara, Arie-machi is a quaint village that offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. This destination attracts visitors looking for a romantic setting, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. The village is home to historic sites, including a castle and a library, which provide fascinating insights into the area's history. The charming atmosphere and scenic surroundings make Arie-machi a perfect spot for those wishing to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying a peaceful retreat.

Things to do in and around Shimabara

Shimabara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including a recreational area, a resort, and an amusement park. For those planning day trips, Shimabara provides ample opportunities to explore its rich history and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable holiday for all ages.

Shopping

In Shimabara, visit the Shimotori Shopping Arcade for a delightful blend of local shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, check out Aeon Mall Kumamoto Clair, located 13.7km away, offering a vast selection of stores, entertainment, and dining options.

Recreation

At Shimabara Sports Park, enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a serene environment that promotes wellness and relaxation. Nearby, Aqua Dome Kumamoto offers an exhilarating sports atmosphere, while Okadake Park, set 12.4km away, invites you to unwind amidst nature’s tranquillity.

Adventure

The Unzen Ropeway offers breathtaking views as you ascend the mountains, perfect for families seeking adventure. For outdoor enthusiasts, Nihonichi no Sekidan provides a stunning natural setting, ideal for hiking and exploring the beauty of the region, located 18.6km from Shimabara.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of Yachiyoza Theater, just 14.9km from Shimabara, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and entertainment. Enjoy a romantic evening at this historic venue, perfect for families and couples alike, offering a unique glimpse into Japan's theatrical heritage.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shimabara

To save money on your trip to Shimabara, consider visiting in January, June, or September for the best rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, ideally on a Tuesday, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find the best deals by filtering for your budget and combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings for potential savings. Additionally, take advantage of free activities and explore the town on foot to minimise transport costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shimabara are January, June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May, August and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Shimabara about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shimabara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Shimabara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Shimabara hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Shimabara

Shimabara, located in Nagasaki Prefecture, is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of culture and adventure. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as the magnificent Shimabara Castle, the Shimabara Arena, and the historic Shimabara Church, all set against stunning mountain backdrops and soothing hot springs. This charming locale promises a memorable experience filled with diverse activities for every traveller.

• Shimabara Castle: Nestled within the town, Shimabara Castle is a splendid historical site that evokes a sense of culture and romance. With its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings, visitors can explore the castle grounds and learn about its significant past.
• Unzen Jigoku Hell: Located 5.0km from Shimabara, Unzen Jigoku Hell offers a unique hotspring experience amidst bubbling geysers and steam vents. This outdoor attraction is perfect for wellness and relaxation, allowing visitors to soak in the therapeutic waters while enjoying the natural beauty.
• Mount Unzen: Situated within Shimabara, Mount Unzen is an adventurer's paradise, offering breathtaking scenery and various hiking trails. The mountain's diverse landscape invites exploration and promises stunning views of the surrounding area.

Best time to go to Shimabara

The best time to visit Shimabara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shimabara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Shimabara falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
August	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shimabara

Flying into Shimabara is convenient, with three major airports nearby. Fukuoka Airport (FUK) is situated 34.2km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Grand Hyatt Fukuoka and the 4.5-star Hotel Okura Fukuoka, both only 1.2km from the airport. Kumamoto Airport (KMJ), located 17.4km from Shimabara, offers hotels like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kumamoto, 5.6km away, and the 3.5-star Hotel Vista Kumamoto Airport, just 1.9km from KMJ. Nagasaki Airport (NGS) is also 17.4km from Shimabara, with nearby hotels including the 4-star Hotel New Nagasaki and Garden Terrace Nagasaki Hotels & Resorts, both 11.2km from the airport.