This Nagasaki Prefecture venue is right around the Nagasaki Airport, so not only does it offer stunning sunset views of Omura Bay, but it fits easily into a trip to southwestern Japan! It’s also right on course between Nagasaki City and Sasebo, two major tourism spots on the western side of Kyushu. But that’s not all! Omura hosted the very first race on April 6, 1952, so when you visit here, you visit the Birthplace of Boat Race.
Location Details
A seaside view with an exciting bonus!
Visiting the Japanese seaside or getting a front-row view of Boat Race are both exciting on their own, but look what happens when you put those together! The deck with wooden seats is close to the water’s surface, so not only can you watch the races up close and feel the thrill and roar of boats speeding by, but you can also get a wide-open view of Omura Bay and its amazing scenery. This venue hosts night races, so it’s a great spot to stick around late to watch the sunset. The final race of the day will fill you with breathtaking elation like only a nighttime sporting event can.
Looking for some more comfort?
At Boat Race Omura, you’ll find a wide variety of seating options, both indoors or out. You can feel the breeze outside and relax on the artificial turf, or if you want to elevate your experience, there are VIP options as well. For example, for groups who like to kick back in relaxing Japanese-style spaces, the tatami seats are a perfect choice. But if you don't want to take off your shoes, there are also regular group seats and box seats. If you are a single traveler or have one companion along for the ride, your choices span everything from the front row seats to the Royal Stands, another VIP space.
Special Seating: Tatami seats
Special Seating: Box seats
VIP space: Royal Stands
Grand Events
Boat Race Omura is more than just a race venue—it’s a vibrant hub for the local community. Throughout the year, it hosts a wide range of events, from sports and cultural activities to family-friendly festivals. The facility also supports marine safety and environmental efforts, so it’s a place where both entertainment and community values take center stage.
Summer Sparks: Fireworks, music, and community
Ready for summer fireworks? Look no further! Every year on August 1, the Omura Nagoshi Fireworks Festival lights up both the summer sky and the hearts of spectators. It’s an immersive experience with dazzling fireworks choreographed to music, as well as a synchronized laser show. Many of the fireworks are launched from the Boat Race venue, so that means lots of reflections on the water. There are dozens of food trucks and festival stalls at this popular event, too! It’s all a fantastic blend of tradition, innovation, and the unique beauty of Omura’s seaside setting.
Entertainment
Boat Race Omura, the birthplace of Boat Race, is a waterfront hub of excitement, history, and community. The venue blends sporting tradition with year-round entertainment that goes beyond racing. Whether you’re here for thrilling races, family-friendly activities, or seasonal festivals, Omura offers a full day of discovery for visitors of all ages.
A Memorial Hall at the Birthplace of Boat Race
Boat Race Omura is known as the birthplace of Japanese boat racing. The first motorboat race in the country was held here on April 6, 1952, and more than half a century later, the sport is still supported by many fans. In 2009, Boat Race Omura opened the Boat Race Birthplace Memorial Hall to showcase this legacy.
The hall uses timelines, photo displays, vintage footage, and archived items to introduce the history of boat racing, so you can follow along from its origins to the present day. Other exhibits have various other materials related to boat racing. There’s even a virtual reality (VR) simulator where you can take a ride and experience being a racer!
Inviting facilities for all kinds of sports lovers
“Gruun Omura” is a community park located outdoors on the first floor, and it’s a huge hit with children and adults alike. It has everything from bouldering to skateboarding, including the largest skate park in Nagasaki Prefecture! Between watching the heart-pounding action of the races and getting your blood pumping by moving around, you and your friends and family can have a whole day full of sports.
There are still more attractions that make this a great spot for the whole family: an outdoor gym, playgrounds for kids, and even karaoke! The venue also hosts a number of events throughout the year, so there is always something new to look forward to. (Be sure to check the event schedule published on the venue website and their official social media accounts.)
Cuisine
Satisfy your hunger with meaty dishes like local-style hamburgers and roast beef bowls! The food court has an even wider selection than this, so be sure to stop by and check it out.
Nostalgic trends in Japanese cuisine
Our must-try recommendation is a simple, nostalgic food that is now trending worldwide: onigiri! These Japanese-style rice balls are beloved for their impeccable balance of flavor, convenience, and comfort. Kome no Ie, a rice ball specialty shop, brings this classic Japanese comfort food to life with carefully selected rice, seasonal fillings, and a handmade touch. Whether you’re craving tradition or looking for a new favorite, your perfect rice ball is waiting.
For fans of other kinds of Japanese cuisine, the Maido! Ookini!! Manpukuya restaurant has ramen, udon, and soba noodles, and Home Ground serves a hearty roast beef bowl.
A perfect meal for everyone!
If you want to try something local, we recommend the famous Sasebo Burger at Stamina Honpo Kaya or Nagasaki Champon at the Maido! Ookini!! Manpukuya restaurant.
If you’re coming with kids, KINOBUTA, located in the community park, specializes in kids’ meals! In addition to a wide variety of menu items for children, the “Special Adult Lunch” is very popular and can be enjoyed by grown-ups too.
If you’re in the mood for curry, check out Salute’s Curry Shop. They have a variety of meals to please a variety of visitors.
Sightseeing
Boat Race Omura is located near Nagasaki Airport. That means it’s on the coast of Omura Bay, which is home to summer firework displays and sights like the beautiful Glass Sandy Beach. This spot is also right in between Nagasaki City and Sasebo, so it’s a perfect stop on a journey through Kyushu.
Port town of Sasebo
Sasebo has always had deep ties with the sea. The city landscape encompasses everything from the Kujukushima Islands to the panoramic view of those islands from high-up places like the Ishidake Observatory. This coastal gem has flourished as a military port, but there is a peaceful charm to cruising through its calm island-dotted waters. Don’t miss out on the city’s beloved Sasebo Burger, a juicy, handcrafted local specialty that’s as flavorful as the city itself. Sasebo is a feast for all the senses!
Nagasaki: A taste of history, a view to remember
Nagasaki City blends old-world charm with modern beauty. Take a stroll across the elegant Meganebashi Bridge, explore the colorful backstreets of Chinatown, and enjoy the seaside breeze at Dejima Wharf. The local favorite soul food was born from the city’s cultural crossroads: Nagasaki Champon, a noodle dish with a savory mix of meats and veggies. As the sun sets, head up to Mt. Inasa to see a breathtaking panorama of twinkling lights throughout the hills and harbor. It’s considered one of the world’s Ten Million Dollar Night Views!
Access Information
Getting to Boat Race Omura is easy and convenient, since it’s only 15 minutes by car or taxi from the Nagasaki airport! There is also a free taxi service from nearby Omura Station, so you can hop in without any hassle. Omura Station itself has easy access from both Nagasaki City and Sasebo, so you can get there from a lot of different locations. For people driving through Kyushu, the Omura Interchange (IC) makes it easy too!
From Nagasaki Station
From Sasebo
From Hakata Station
