Winter Sunshine Illuminates the Golden Shachihoko: A Day of Miracles and Romance at Nagoya Castle
A Day Illuminated by the Golden Shachihoko: Travel Notes from a One-Day Visit to Nagoya Castle
Nagoya's morning carries a unique charm—unhurried and comforting, like a perfectly brewed cup of hot matcha. On this day, I planned a one-day visit to Nagoya Castle, and from the moment I stepped through the castle gates, I knew it would be a day filled with satisfaction for history, architecture, and culinary delights.
🌿 Morning: Stepping Through the Castle Gates Felt Like Time Travel
The moment I entered through the main gate, the two gleaming golden "Shachihoko" seemed to stare at me: "Welcome to Nagoya Castle, get your cameras ready."
Although the main keep is a reconstructed building, its grandeur is no less impressive than the original. As I climbed the stairs, each floor showcased samurai culture, castle history, and architectural models, including displays of the traditional wooden construction methods used in the past. My favorite part was the observation deck on the top floor, where a gentle breeze accompanied a panoramic view of Nagoya. In that moment, I felt as if I were gazing at the same sky from 400 years ago.
🍵 Noon: Refueling at the Castle Town
Walking around the castle can work up an appetite, so I headed to "Kinshachi Yokocho" just outside the castle for a meal. This area is incredibly convenient, offering a collection of Nagoya's famous dishes:
✔ Miso Katsu (Yabaton)
✔ Miso Nikomi Udon (Yamamotoya Sohonke)
✔ Nagoya-style Chicken Wings (Tebasaki)
✔ Kishimen (Flat Udon Noodles)
I opted for the Miso Katsu that day. The miso sauce was perfectly rich, the breading on the pork cutlet was thick and crispy, and each bite was juicy. Sitting on an outdoor bench, watching tourists come and go, I felt a sense of "small joys in the journey."
🌸 Afternoon: Strolling Through the Garden and Capturing the Golden Shachihoko
After lunch, I took a leisurely walk to the Ninomaru Garden. It was so quiet that I could hear the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves. Walking along the pond and bridges, the atmosphere was completely different from the historical vibe inside the castle—soft, serene, and tranquil.
The most amusing part was that everyone was taking photos of the Golden Shachihoko. Really, everyone. From different angles, in backlight, under direct sunlight, or even with failed focus, people were happily snapping away. I took so many photos that my iPhone battery dropped to 20%, but I couldn't stop—the brilliance of the Shachihoko was just too captivating.
🎐 Afternoon Tea Bonus: Golden Shachihoko Ice Cream and Castle Souvenirs
Before leaving, I treated myself to a "Golden Shachihoko Ice Cream"—essentially soft serve with golden chocolate flakes, but it made for a great photo. Nearby shops also sold samurai-themed merchandise, Shachihoko keychains, and gold coin chocolates. I ended up buying a Shachihoko fridge magnet, a souvenir that unmistakably says, "This is from Nagoya."
🌆 Evening: A Final Glance That Made It All Worthwhile
As I left and turned back for one last look at the main keep, the sunlight reflecting off the Golden Shachihoko gave me a sudden sense of being illuminated. Nagoya Castle isn't the kind of place you just breeze through; the more you explore, the more you appreciate its intricate details and the profound soul of the castle.
The pace of the day was just right: unhurried, uncommercialized, and uncrowded, yet filled with stories at every turn.
📌 Summary of My One-Day Visit to Nagoya Castle
Top 5 Highlights:
✔ Capturing the Golden Shachihoko and the main keep
✔ Enjoying the view from the observation deck
✔ Savoring local delicacies at Kinshachi Yokocho
✔ Relaxing strolls in Ninomaru Garden
✔ Exploring both the interior and exterior of the castle, perfect for a half-day to full-day visit
Who It's Best For:
👉 Fans of Japanese castle culture
👉 Those who enjoy walking, photography, and slow travel
👉 Families with children (spacious and easy-to-navigate routes)
👉 Couples looking for a romantic photo spot