As one of the largest cities in Japan, Nagoya is often visited by a constant stream of tourists throughout the year. Though it’s not as crowded as Tokyo, the city is still considered industrial.
Known as the birthplace of Toyota and Mitsubishi, Nagoya attracts businessmen in industrial and technology-related sectors. However, that’s not all the city has to offer.
Things to do in Nagoya vary due to the unique mix of the old and new. The heart of the city may be filled with advanced technological inventions, but you’ll also find a greener side if you stray a bit from the center.
So, how do you explore Nagoya attractions to the fullest? Check the following recommendations to make a list of places to visit in Nagoya.
1. Visit the Iconic Nagoya Castle
A trip to Nagoya should start with a visit to Nagoya Castle. It’s a famous landmark that attracts many tourists from all over the world.
The majestic architectural site of the past stands tall, surrounded by a line of cherry blossoms in spring. Inside the castle, you can find the Honmaru Palace, the residence of the governor in the past.
If you enter the castle, you should head to the top of the castle’s tower. There, you may find Shachihoko, the shiny golden statue that portrays the castle’s guardian deity.
2. Taste Exquisite Cuisine at Kinshachi Yokocho
Once exploring Nagoya Castle, you can explore Kinshachi Yokocho to fill your belly with local delicacies, like miso-nikomi udon or hitsumabushi.
In this alley lined with restaurants and izakaya bars in front of Nagoya Castle, you’ll find restaurants with traditional styles and unique cafes.
The restaurants are in the Yoshinao Zone, while the cafes line up in the Muneharu Zone, which operates until 10:30 PM.
3. See Nagoya from Above at the Chubu Electric Tower MIRAI TOWER
Souce: Visit Nagoya
At the center of Nagoya’s busy shopping district, Sakae, , you can see a tall futuristic tower. The Chubu Electric Tower MIRAI TOWER is the first transmission tower in Japan which stands at 100 m.
Aside from being the transmission tower, the MIRAI TOWER features an observation floor. Visitors can go to this landmark every weekend or on holidays to see Nagoya from above.
At the base of the tower, you can find cafes and shops which offer delicious treats as well as souvenirs for visitors who come to unwind in the area.
4. Explore the Nagoya City Science Museum
Space enthusiasts must not skip a visit to the Nagoya City Science Museum. This space learning facility houses the world’s biggest planetarium with a record-breaking diameter of 35 meters.
Exploring the universe through a highly realistic starry sky display can be one of the most exhilarating things to do in Nagoya for children and adults alike.
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5. Walk Around Osu Shopping Street
In your Japan trip itinerary, include a walk around Osu Shopping Street or Osu Shotengai. You’ll have a sweet time shopping for uniquely Japanese fashion items here.
From avant-garde fashion items to boutique brands, a wide range of clothing may seem like a feast for shopaholics.
If you crave for snacks, you can try the sweet roasted Tianjin chestnuts or uiro, a steamed chewy confectionery made from a mix of rice flour and sugar.
Just like Akihabara in Tokyo, Osu Shopping Street has a number of shops that cater to Japanese subcultures, like maid cafes and figurine stores.
6. Enjoy a Casual Stroll Around Shirotori Garden
Source: Visit Nagoya
Located near Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Shirotori Garden encapsulates the old and the new of Nagoya. It’s inspired by the terrain of the Chubu. This garden features distinct nature motifs in Nagoya, like:
- The constructed mountain that represents Mount Ontake.
- The flowing stream that’s showcased like the Kiso river.
- The water flows in the pond with a resemblance to Ise Bay.
Since its opening in 1991, the garden has attracted visitors for its meaningful interpretation of the story of water. In spring, visitors can marvel at the cherry blossoms that hug the area with their delicate colors.
7. Revel in the Fantasy of the Ghibli Park
The Ghibli Park in Nagakute is about one hour by train from Nagoya. However, many visitors often use the time of their Nagoya trip to go to this iconic park.
If you’re obsessed with Ghibli films, like Howl’s Moving Castle and Princess Mononoke, a one-hour trip from Nagoya may be worth the time.
Step into the Ghibli world and take as many pictures in front of the Ghibli-themed monuments in the park as memories of your unforgettable trip to Japan.
So, how do you feel about Nagoya? Nagoya’s attractions with their seamless blend of old and new have different charms from Tokyo’s.
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