Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan's fourth largest city, has a strong industrial presence and a rich samurai history. You can visit Nagoya Castle, pray at Atsuta Shrine, examine artifacts at the Tokugawa Art Museum, taste local dishes like miso katsu, and take a short trip to nearby Inuyama. While some travelers overlook Nagoya, the city offers both modern amenities and historical sites for those who choose to explore it.

Exploring Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle, built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, was reconstructed in concrete after World War II. The castle's roof is decorated with golden shachihoko, mythical fish-like creatures. You can climb to the top floor for views of the city or explore the recently reconstructed Honmaru Palace, which contains intricate paintings and traditional Japanese architecture.

Discovering Nagoya's Museums

At the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, you'll learn about Toyota's transformation from a textile machinery company to a major automotive manufacturer. You can try hands-on exhibits that demonstrate weaving and car manufacturing processes. The Tokugawa Art Museum displays the possessions of the Owari Tokugawa family, including swords, armor, and paintings from the samurai era.

Sampling Local Cuisine

Nagoya has developed its own unique food culture. Try miso katsu, a thick pork cutlet covered in red miso sauce, at Yabaton, a restaurant that has been serving this dish since 1947. For a typical Nagoya snack, taste tebasaki - crispy chicken wings seasoned with pepper and soy sauce. You can enjoy these wings with beer at Yamachan, a popular casual dining chain.

Shopping in Sakae and Osu

The Sakae district is the main shopping and entertainment area in Nagoya. You can find large department stores like Matsuzakaya or visit the Oasis 21 complex with its modern architecture. For a different shopping experience, walk through the covered arcades of Osu Shopping Street. This active area contains stores selling vintage clothing and electronics, as well as cafes serving local specialties.

Taking a Day Trip to Inuyama

Inuyama, located 30 minutes from Nagoya by train, is worth visiting for its well-preserved castle. Inuyama Castle is one of only 12 original castles remaining in Japan and sits on a hill overlooking the Kiso River. After touring the castle, you can explore Meiji Mura, an open-air museum featuring over 60 buildings from the Meiji era (1868-1912).

Getting Around Nagoya

You can navigate Nagoya using its subway system. Six color-coded lines connect most major attractions and shopping areas. For convenience, you can buy a one-day subway pass for unlimited rides. Buses reach areas not served by trains. Most signs and announcements are in English and Japanese.