Nagoya Travel Guide

Nagoya, located in the heart of central Japan, is the fourth-largest city in the country and not a traditional tourist hotspot. Since the widespread bombings of 1945, the city has been rebuilt into a modern metropolis combining modern structures with a mix of reconstructed historical buildings. It is an influential industrial and cultural center with a bustling nightlife to match.

Nagoya is more famous for its car industry than its tourism infrastructure, but it’s worthy of a couple of days exploration on a tour of Japan. Both residents and visitors will agree that Nagoya Castle is the main sight. Originally built in 1612, the castle was reconstructed after 1945 yet still features its infamous golden dolphins and an interesting museum inside. Close to the castle is the Shikeimichi neighborhood with its beautiful architecture dating back to the 18th century and charming temples and shrines.

The neighborhood of Osu has much to offer in the way of shops and museums and is a less exasperating option than downtown Nagoya. Sakae is lined with department stores and is also a busy center for night-time activity, with bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Close to Osu, the Astuta Shrine is a must-see, one of the three major treasures of the imperial family. Not far from the city center is the superb Tokugawa Art Museum. This private collection from the Tokugawa family, collected over many generations, displays a large quantity and range of well-preserved works of art. 

Nagoya Attractions

Higashiyama Park: offering a fun day out for all ages, the park features a zoo, monorail, sky tower, roller coaster and lots of open space for all sorts of outdoor adventures. 

Osu Kannon Temple: is one of the city’s most popular Buddhist temples, located in the heart of the city.

Oasis 21: located in Sakae, this recreational and commercial center is jam-packed with shops, restaurants and cafés, and features a ‘water spaceship’ roof, which supposedly keeps temperatures low in the complex below.

Aichi Arts Center: a fine example of modern Nagoya architecture and a complex of art and cultural activities.

Nagoya Castle: originally built around 1525, the two golden dolphins on the top of the castle are a symbol of the feudal lords’ authority. The interior is anything but historic these days, with lifts and air con.

Nittaiji Temple: rebuilt in the late 1900s, it features Thai style design and a gold leaf tablet with an inscription from the present King of Thailand.