The New York Times published its “52 Places to Go in 2026” on January 5, and featured Nagasaki as its 17th destination among various destinations from around the world.

Regarding Nagasaki, it is said that an air of surrealness lingers, as the city center escaped damage in the 1945 atomic bombing.

It also said that as the threat of nuclear proliferation spreads around the world, there is great significance in visiting Nagasaki, especially with the completion of the large-scale redevelopment around Nagasaki Station.

Additionally, it goes to mention several local spots and delicacies, including the 800-year-old camphor tree, a jazz bar, castella sponge cake, and grilled mochi.

Also making it onto the list in 46th place was Okinawa, which was praised for UNESCO World Heritage site Shuri Castle, which is set to reopen this fall after a fire in 2019.

It also touched upon Okinawa's white sandy beaches and introduced the Ryukyu Lantern Festival in Yomitan Village and the Ie Island Lily Festival.

Other locations in Japan have been selected for the list in the past, including Toyama and Osaka in 2025, Yamaguchi City in 2024, and Morioka City and Fukuoka City in 2023.