Nagoya is a vibrant city located in the heart of Japan. Known for its rich history, delicious food, and exciting attractions, Nagoya is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historical sites, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or experiencing its modern cultural attractions, Nagoya has something for everyone.
Atsuta Shrine
One of the top attractions in Nagoya is the Atsuta Shrine, a historic shrine that is said to house one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. The shrine is surrounded by a peaceful park and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
About Atsuta Shrine
Atsuta Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagoya, Japan. It is considered one of the most important shrines in the country and is dedicated to the deity Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun and the mythical ancestor of the Imperial family. The shrine is said to be one of the oldest in Japan, with a history that dates back over 1,900 years.
Atsuta Shrine is known for its beautiful architecture, including its main hall and several other buildings that are designated as National Treasures of Japan. The shrine’s main hall is home to several valuable cultural assets, including a sword known as Kusanagi no Tsurugi, which is one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan.
In addition to its rich history and cultural significance, Atsuta Shrine is also known for its beautiful grounds, including its gardens, pond, and forested areas. Visitors to the shrine can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the grounds or participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies.
Whether you are interested in the history and culture of Japan, or simply want to experience the beauty and serenity of a traditional Shinto shrine, Atsuta Shrine is a must-visit destination in Nagoya.
Nagoya Castle
Another popular attraction is the Nagoya Castle, which was once the residence of the powerful Owari feudal lords. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, learn about its history, and admire its impressive architecture.
About Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is a historical castle located in Nagoya, Japan. It was originally built in the early 17th century as the main castle of the Owari Domain and was one of the largest and most important castles in Japan. During World War II, the castle was destroyed in air raids and later reconstructed in the 1950s.
The castle features several structures, including a palace, gardens, and towers, and is considered one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese castle architecture. The castle’s palace has been designated a National Treasure of Japan and features beautiful works of art, including painted screens and gold-leaf details.
Visitors to Nagoya Castle can explore the castle’s grounds, including its moats and towers, as well as visit the castle’s museum to learn about the history of the castle and its significance to the local area. In addition, the castle offers panoramic views of the city, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience the beauty of traditional Japanese culture, Nagoya Castle is a must-visit destination in Nagoya.
Local Cuisines
For foodies, Nagoya is a must-visit destination. The city is famous for its local dish, miso katsu, a delicious pork cutlet covered in a rich miso sauce. There are many restaurants in Nagoya that serve this local specialty, so be sure to try it while you’re in town. Another popular dish is hitsumabushi, a local dish made with eel and rice that is said to be a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
Here are our top 5 recommendations of local cuisines in Nagoya:
- Miso Katsu – A local dish made from deep-fried pork cutlets coated in a thick miso sauce.
- Hitsumabushi – A dish of grilled eel served over rice and topped with a variety of condiments.
- Tebasaki – Fried chicken wings that are seasoned with a mixture of spices and sauces, typically served as a snack or as part of a meal.
- Nagoya Cochin Chicken – A local specialty that consists of a slow-cooked chicken dish made with a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Tenmusu – Rice balls filled with tempura shrimp, often served as a snack or as part of a meal.
Restaurants in Nagoya
Where are the best places to try these dishes…? Here are our top 5 restaurant picks in Nagoya:
- “Kishiya” – A traditional Nagoya restaurant famous for its hearty cuisine, including dishes like miso-katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce) and tebasaki (chicken wings).
- “Chikara-moto” – A well-known sushi restaurant that specializes in local seafood from the nearby Mikawa Bay.
- “Horenso no Goma-ya” – A popular eatery known for its Spinach with Sesame dressing, which is a specialty dish of Nagoya.
- “Hatchobori-no Takumen” – A casual restaurant serving Takoyaki, a popular snack food made with diced octopus, green onion and other ingredients.
- “Nagoya Meshi Chikara-moto” – A restaurant that showcases the best of Nagoya’s local cuisine, including dishes like Hitsumabushi (eel on rice) and tebasaki (chicken wings).
These are just a few of the many great dining options available in Nagoya. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes or more contemporary fare, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite in this vibrant city.
Shopping in Nagoya
If you’re interested in shopping, Nagoya has plenty of options to choose from. The city is home to several large shopping malls, including the Oasis 21, a modern shopping center that features a variety of shops and restaurants. Another popular shopping destination is the Nakamura Market, a bustling indoor market that is a great place to find fresh produce and local delicacies.
Here are our top 5 picks of shopping places in Nagoya:
- Osu Shopping District – This shopping district is located in the Osu neighborhood and is known for its street vendors, discount stores, and electronics shops.
- Nagoya Station Area – The area around Nagoya Station is a major shopping hub, with department stores, shopping malls, and specialty shops.
- Sakae – This is Nagoya’s central shopping district, with department stores, boutiques, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Parco – This shopping mall is located in the heart of Nagoya and is known for its high-end fashion and lifestyle brands.
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium – This shopping mall is located near the Port of Nagoya and is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the popular Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium.
Museums
Nagoya is home to several museums and cultural attractions, including the Toyota Automobile Museum, the Tokaido Road Museum, and the Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts. These museums provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and art of the city and the region.
Here are the top 5 museums we recommend to visit in Nagoya:
- Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts – This museum is a collaboration between the Nagoya City Art Museum and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. It showcases both Japanese and Western art, including Impressionist and modern paintings, as well as ancient Chinese and Japanese art.
- Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology – This museum highlights the history and innovation of the Toyota Company, including its early days as a textile manufacturer, as well as its role in the development of the Japanese automobile industry.
- Tokaido Road Museum – This museum is dedicated to the Tokaido Road, which was once a major thoroughfare connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. The museum showcases the history, culture, and art of the Tokaido Road through interactive displays, models, and artifacts.
- SCMAGLEV and Railway Park – This museum showcases the history of Japanese railway technology, including the development of the Shinkansen (bullet train) and the Superconducting Maglev (SCMAGLEV) train system. The museum features exhibits, interactive displays, and a replica of a Shinkansen train.
- The Museum Meiji-mura – This outdoor museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing buildings from the Meiji period (1868-1912). The museum features over 60 original buildings, including homes, schools, and public buildings, as well as gardens and a lake.
How to make your trip to Nagoya sustainable
There are several steps you can take to make your trip more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Here are a few ways to make your visit to Nagoya more sustainable:
- Use public transportation: Nagoya has an extensive public transportation system, including trains and buses, which can reduce your carbon footprint and help you get around the city more efficiently.
- Choose sustainable accommodations: Look for hotels or Airbnb rentals that have eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and recycling programs.
- Eat locally sourced food: Try to eat locally sourced food while you’re in Nagoya. This not only supports the local economy but also reduces the carbon footprint of your food.
- Buy locally made products: When shopping, consider buying locally made products that are sustainably produced and have a smaller carbon footprint.
- Reduce waste: Try to reduce your waste by using reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and containers.
- Book a HiddenWalks sustainable private tour and contribute to the local community!
By following these simple steps, you can make your visit to Nagoya more sustainable and help protect the environment.
Summary
Nagoya is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, shopping, or culture, this vibrant city has plenty of options to choose from. So why not visit Nagoya in your next trip to Japan, book a sustainable tour through HiddenWalks, and discover the many wonders of this amazing city!
