Nagoya Uncovered – Castles, Crafts & Culinary Delights

#cityplaybook #postandearn #localguides #historicallandmarks Nagoya surprised me—in the best possible way. Often overlooked by travelers heading to Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, this city in central Japan offered a mix of historical heritage, industrial innovation, and a food scene that completely won me over. I started my journey at Nagoya Castle, a majestic structure that echoes samurai history. Its golden shachihoko (tiger-headed carp) glistened under the sun, and the reconstructed Honmaru Palace inside was filled with elegant tatami rooms and vibrant painted screens. The surrounding garden was peaceful and serene, especially in spring with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Next stop: the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. I didn’t expect to enjoy it so much, but the interactive exhibits and stories of Japan’s post-war innovation journey were fascinating. It’s a must-visit if you’re even a little curious about how Japan became an industrial powerhouse. Food-wise, Nagoya is a flavor bomb. I couldn’t get enough of miso katsu—a local spin on pork cutlet slathered in rich red miso sauce. I also tried hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice), which comes with its own unique three-way eating ritual. Pure foodie heaven! Before leaving, I visited Osu Shopping Street, a lively maze of shops selling electronics, vintage clothes, street snacks, and anime goods. It gave off a mix of old and new vibes that felt authentic and exciting. Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–November) are perfect for comfortable sightseeing and cherry blossom or fall foliage views. Travel Tips: Use the Meguru Sightseeing Bus to hop between major attractions. Try Kinshachi Yokocho near Nagoya Castle for traditional food stalls. For day trips, Inuyama and Gifu are just a short ride away. Location: Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan #nagoyaadventures #nagoyacastle #misokatsumagic #hiddenjapan #japanfoodiejourney #toyotamuseum #osushoppingstreet #hitsumabushiheaven #explorechubu #visitnagoya