Nagoya

Experience a city where ancient legacies and modern design thrive together, with iconic samurai landmarks standing alongside sleek, contemporary architecture.

Japan’s fourth most populated city and the third most popular urban area

Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, offers a captivating blend of modern innovation and rich cultural heritage. Known for its cutting-edge technology and vibrant industries, it is home to global giants like Toyota and a hub of Japan’s automotive industry. At the same time, Nagoya preserves its historic sites, including the majestic Nagoya Castle, a symbol of the city’s samurai past. The castle’s impressive architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a glimpse into feudal Japan, while nearby Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most revered Shinto shrines, adds to the spiritual richness of the city.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Nagoya is a dynamic urban center filled with diverse shopping districts, entertainment options, and renowned culinary delights. The city is famous for its unique cuisine, such as hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice) and Nagoya-style ramen. The vibrant Osu Shopping District and the modern Sakae area offer a blend of traditional markets and contemporary shopping centers. With its mix of old and new, Nagoya offers a diverse experience that appeals to both history buffs and modern-day explorers.

Nagoya Castle

Top Attractions

Legoland Japan

Legoland Japan, located in Nagoya, is an exciting family-friendly theme park that brings the world of LEGO to life. With over 40 rides, attractions, and shows, it offers a fun-filled adventure for kids and adults alike. Visitors can explore themed zones and marvel at detailed LEGO models.
Nagoya TV Tower

Nagoya TV Tower

Japan’s first commercial radio broadcast began in Nagoya and through this iconic tower. Measuring 180 metres in height, it is one of the most famous landmarks in Nagoya along with Nagoya Castle. You can go up to 90 meter high Sky Deck which is indoor or 100 meter high Sky Balcony which is fenced balcony to enjoy the view of Nagoya city. The tower is located adjacent to Ocean 21 and close to Sakae station.

Osu Shopping Street

Osu Shopping District

A vibrant and bustling area in central Nagoya, Osu Shopping District is home to over 1,200 shops, offering everything from fashion and electronics to street food and unique souvenirs. The district blends traditional and modern shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a lively and diverse shopping experience.

Nabano no Sato

Nabano no Sato

A beautiful flower park in Aichi Prefecture, Nabano no Sato is famous for its stunning seasonal displays, particularly the spectacular illumination events held in winter. The park features vibrant flower gardens, including tulips, roses, and wisteria, creating a picturesque landscape year-round. To get there from Nagoya Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Nagoya to Kintetsu Nagoya Station, and then transfer to the Meitetsu Bus, which will take you directly to Nabano no Sato in about 40 minutes.

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle

The Nagoya Castle (名古屋城 Nagoyajo) is currently going through renovation and is due to reopen in 2022. Nagoya Castle was built in 1612 by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Nagoya Castle is known for its two golden shachihoko on top of the castle tower. Shachihoko, or shachi, are imaginary creatures with the body of a carp and the head of a tiger. Although you cannot go inside the actual castle, you can still visit the area around Nagoya Castle which has other buildings, Japanese gardens, souvenir stores and cafes. You will need to pay a small admission fee to enter the area.

To visit Nagoya castle, use Meijo subway line and get off at Shiyakusho Station. It is only 5-minute walk from this station.

Oasis 21

Oasis 21

Located adjacent to Nagoya TV Tower, this is a multi-level complex with parks, bus terminals, stores, and performance venues all rolled into one. The theme and symbol of the complex “Space Ship Aqua” is visible across all four floors including the rooftop. Theroof itself is designed to look like a floating space ship.

On the ground level, there is “Field of Green” where various flowers and trees are planted. Also on the ground level, there are many shops and restaurants. Ocean 21 takes only few minutes from Sakae station.

Nagoya City Science Museum

Nagoya City Science Museum

The Nagoya City Science Museum is a museum located in Sakae. The museum houses one of the largest planetariums in the world called “Brother Earth” with dome measuring 35 meters in diameter. Each session, up to 350 visitors can enjoy the star projection and special simulations of space travel from the comfort of the reclining chairs.

Other than planetarium, there are other amazing attractions such as -30 degree C Polar room and amazing aurora display, artificial tornado that goes up to 8 meter high, and Electric Discharge Lab.

To visit, use subway Higashiyma-Line or Tsurumai-Line and exit at Fushimi station.

Atsuta Jinja

Atsutajingu

Atsutajingu (熱田神宮, atsuta shrine) is referred by locals as “atsutasan” or “Miya”and is said to visited by around 8-9 million people per year. Known to be founded over 2000 years ago, it is one of the most important shrines for Shinto.Amaterasu-Oomikami who is the goddess and the deification of the sun, is enshrined in Atsutajingu. One of the 3 sacred treasures of japan sword Of Kusanagi is located here as an object of worship and believed to contain the spirit of a deity. This sword is unfortunately not viewable to public.

The shrine grounds include an old giant camphor tree that is over 1,000 years old and is said to be planted by the renowned Buddhist priest Kobou Daishi. You can also enjoy the famous Kishimen which is like udon noodle. Variation of topics are available such as with tempura, yams, pork soup, etc. The restaurant is popular and you will need to wait in line most of the time. Sometimes you will need to wait 30-60 minutes if you go around lunch time.

Endoji Shotengai
Image source: Roman SUZUKI, 円頓寺商店街 - panoramio, CC BY 3.0

Endoji Shotengai Shopping Street

Located in the North Eastern side from Nagoya station, Endoji Shotengai is said to be one of the oldest shopping streets in Nagoya, and it is a historic shopping street that still has a nostalgic feel. The street consists of shops that started from Meiji period (over 100 years ago), as well as modern new shops. In the spring of 2015, the arcade was renovated and made a sister tie-up with the panoramic shopping street in Paris.

Many events are held throughout the year at the Endoji Shopping Street. On the first Sunday of every month, the flea market “Goen City”, and on the first Saturday of every month “Kimono in Endoji / Shikemichi” are held.

Noritake Garden
Image source: https://www.noritake.co.jp/eng/mori/

Noritake Garden

Noritake is famous world wide for their tableware and kitchenware. They are headquartered in Nagoya, Aichi Prefercture in Japan. The Noritake Garden (ノリタケの森, Noritake no Mori) was built on the company’s former factory grounds which is located approximately 15 minutes walk from Nagoya station.

The place includes gallery and museum where you get to see the wonderful collection of Noritake tableware, several stores for shopping and cafes & restaurants. The garden and red brick buildings are rarely seen in Japan and due to this reason, many locals hold wedding in Moritake Garden.

Tokugawa Art Museum

Opened in 1935, this art museum has a collection of samurai artifacts from the most senior of the three sub-branches of the house of the Tokugawa shogunate. At the Tokugawa Art Museum, you can view the historical tools of the Owari Tokugawa feudal lords, including Japanese swords and armor, written letters and drawings, tea ceremony utensils, Noh masks and costumes and many more.

The masterpieces gallery, number 1 to 5 exhibition rooms of the Tokugawa Art Museum are dedicated to the symbols of the samurai warrior (swords, armor and helmets), the daimyo’s tea ceremony room, the formal chamber of a feudal lord (daimyo), a recreated Noh theater and objects & furnishing room.

Tokugawaen

The Tokugawa Garden (徳川園 Tokugawa-en) is situated adjacent to the Tokugawa Art Museum. It can be visited separately or with a combined ticket to the museum. You can take a train to Ozone station via Meijo Line and walk in south direction for 15 minutes.

It is a beautiful Japanese landscape garden with small waterfalls, bridges, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and flowers in all seasons. Within the garden, there is a French and Japanese fusion restaurant called “Garden Restaurant Tokugawaen”. While dining you can enjoy the magnificent view of Tokugawaen and Ryusenko.

Toyota Museum

Toyota museum or Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, was established by the Toyota Group, located in Nishi-ku in the city of Nagoya, central Japan. This museum shows the origin of now the internal automotive company Toyota. Toyota started as a textile firm and evolved over decades into an international automobile company. There is a museum shop, restaurant, cafe and library where you can enjoy. You can visit the museum from Nagoya station – 16 minutes walk or 5 minutes via taxi.

Midland Square

Midland Square

A prominent landmark in Nagoya, Midland Square is a sleek, modern skyscraper that offers shopping, dining, and stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Standing at 247 meters, it is one of the tallest buildings in the city and features luxury shops, restaurants, and office spaces, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Osu Kannon Temple

Osu Kannon Temple

A historic Buddhist temple in the heart of Nagoya, Osu Kannon Temple is famous for its large wooden statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The temple, originally built in the 14th century, is surrounded by a lively shopping district, creating a unique blend of culture and commerce. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful temple grounds, while the nearby Osu Shopping District offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops, food stalls, and more.

Nagoya Railway Museum

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

A fascinating museum dedicated to Japan’s railway history, the Nagoya SCMAGLEV and Railway Park showcases a wide range of trains, including the famous Shinkansen and the world’s fastest maglev train. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about the evolution of rail travel, and even experience virtual train simulations, making it an exciting destination for both train enthusiasts and families.

Local Specialties

Hitsumabushi

Hitsumabushi

A grilled eel dish served over rice, Hitsumabushi is typically enjoyed in three ways: eating it as is, adding condiments like wasabi and green onions, or mixing it with a flavorful broth.

Miso Katsu

Miso Katsu

A variation of tonkatsu, topped with a rich, sweet red miso sauce for a distinct Nagoya twist. The savory sauce perfectly complements the crispy pork, making it a beloved local dish often enjoyed with rice.

Nagoya Cochin Chicken

A premium chicken breed known for its rich flavor, often served grilled, in hot pots, or as sashimi. The meat is tender and flavorful, prized for its firm texture and deeper taste compared to other chicken varieties.

Chicken Wings Tebasaki

Tebasaki (Chicken Wings)

Tebasaki are deep-fried chicken wings coated in a sweet and savory glaze, a beloved specialty in Nagoya. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they are often served with a side of cabbage and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Known for their unique flavor, Tebasaki is a popular dish enjoyed with beer in Nagoya’s izakayas.