Nagoya: A Treasure City in Central Japan

Nagoya Travel Guide: I. Nagoya Overview Nagoya is Japan's fourth-largest city, located in the central part of Honshu Island, and the capital of Aichi Prefecture. It is not only a major center of Japan's automotive industry, home to well-known brands such as Toyota, but also a city where history and modernity blend. II. Recommended Attractions 1. Nagoya Castle • A landmark building in Nagoya, built in the early 17th century, it is one of the largest castles in Japan. • Inside the castle, there is a museum displaying samurai armor, weapons, and other cultural relics. The surrounding gardens offer different scenery throughout the four seasons, especially charming during the cherry blossom season in spring. • Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0031, Japan • Opening hours: 9:00-16:30 daily • Admission: Adults 500 yen, children free 2. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium • One of the largest aquariums in Japan, it exhibits a variety of marine life from the deep sea to shallow waters, including whales, dolphins, and penguins. • Special programs include dolphin shows and touch pools, suitable for families. • Address: 1-3 Minatomachi, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-0033, Japan • Opening hours: 9:30-17:30 daily • Admission: Adults 2060 yen, children 1030 yen 3. Osu Kannon • A famous temple built in the 12th century, dedicated to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, it is one of Nagoya's spiritual centers. • Around the temple, there is a lively shopping street selling various souvenirs and food, as well as a flea market open twice a month. • Address: 1-17-20, Osu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0001, Japan • Free admission 4. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology • Showcases Toyota's development from a textile machinery manufacturer to a global automotive giant. • The museum is divided into the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion, with interactive exhibits and demonstrations, suitable for families. • Address: 1-1-1, Tsurumai, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-0033, Japan • Opening hours: 9:30-17:00 • Admission: Adults 500 yen, children free 5. Legoland Japan • A theme park suitable for families and Lego enthusiasts, with multiple themed areas, including famous Japanese landmarks recreated with Lego bricks. • Offers a wealth of amusement facilities, performances, and interactive experiences, suitable for visitors of all ages. • Address: 1-1 Minatomachi, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-0033, Japan • Opening hours: Varies depending on the season, generally 9:30-18:00 • Admission: Adults around 7000 yen, children around 4000 yen 6. Atsuta Shrine • One of Japan's famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and the sacred sword Kusanagi. • The shrine has a museum displaying ancient weapons, paintings, and clothing, and is surrounded by a beautiful environment. • Address: 1-1, Miya-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 456-8585, Japan • Free admission III. Recommended Food 1. Miso Katsu (Miso-glazed Pork Cutlet) • A Nagoya specialty, using locally produced Hatcho miso, with a rich flavor. • Recommended restaurants: Yabaton, Yamamotoya Sohonke 2. Taiwan Ramen • Spicy noodles introduced by Taiwanese immigrants, which have become one of Nagoya's representative dishes. • Recommended restaurant: Sekai no Yamachan 3. Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style Eel Rice) • Nagoya's Hitsumabushi has a unique way of eating—"Hitsumabushi three ways"—dividing the eel rice into three portions and eating it plain, with green onions, and as ochazuke (tea-soaked rice). • Recommended restaurant: Atsuta Horaiken IV. Recommended Shopping 1. Sakae Area • Nagoya's commercial center, with numerous department stores, shopping malls, and underground streets. • Recommended shopping malls: Nagoya PARCO, Dai Nagoya Building 2. Around Nagoya Station • The area around Nagoya Station has been redeveloped, with many high-rise buildings and shopping centers, offering a wide variety of shopping and dining options. • Recommended shopping mall: JR Nagoya Takashi