Nagoya is Japan’s third most populated metropolitan area. It is the capital of Aichi Prefecture and the principal city of the Nobi plain. As one of the country’s major transport hubs and industrial centers, Nagoya also has Japan’s leading port for international trade. Additionally, Nagoya has its own state-of-the-art airport Centrair, located only half-an-hour from the city center. But what is there to do in ‘the city that every tourist skips’? Trust us, there are plenty of attractions, and you get to enjoy them without the tourist crowds!
Nagoya Attractions
Nagoya doesn’t feature heavily on foreign tourists’ itineraries, not being as varied and metropolitan as Tokyo. Not having the traditional allure of Kyoto and mainly being an industrial city, people usually opt to skip it. You might, however, still find yourself in Nagoya, for example, to see the Sumo Grand Tournament in July.
Or because you are crazy about cars and are visiting the nearby Toyota plant for a free tour, fret not. There are plenty of other interesting places to see in Nagoya. The province of Aichi also boasts many amazing destinations, so chances are you will pass through Nagoya when visiting, for example, Takayama or the pearl divers in Ise.
Nagoya is not only about industry, transport, and trade. For those more interested in samurai history, the Tokugawa Museum provides a wealth of in-depth information and fascinating exhibits on the most famous of Nagoya families. Arcade shopping center Osu-Kannon in the heart of the city is a bustling area with a splendid temple at its heart. The seemingly endless covered arcades make the area one of the most interesting shopping areas in Japan.
The Atsuta-jingu shrine has a history that dates all the way back to 1900 years ago. The famous treasure hall has some very interesting items on display.
Ceramics & Good Food
Nagoya is famous for its porcelain and ceramic, so a visit to the Noritake Garden should definitely be included in your itinerary. It is not only a charming area, but you can also try your hands on painting your own china. If you don’t have the chance to see a castle elsewhere on your trip to Japan you should check out the recently renovated Nagoya Castle. In the middle of August, it is a must-visit, as this is the time when the yearly Nagoya Castle Summer Festival is held. Especially the evenings are dreamily beautiful with the light-ups.
Every region in Japan has its own distinctive cuisine, and Nagoya is no different. You can’t leave the city without having tried their dark red version of miso, with an extra-strong flavor compared to Tokyo-style white miso. Misokatsu, a fried port cutlet covered in a thick red miso sauce, is surely a dish you won’t easily forget! For those who like slightly more accessible flavors, everybody loves Nagoya-style tebasaki spicy chicken wings from Yamachan.
Nagoya also offers many excellent day trip options, one of the best being the castle at Inuyama. You will also want to see the historical village Meiji Mura, and the large Nagashima Spaland amusement park being just three of the options.
Your Japan Tour
If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour. We can include destinations like Nagoya and experiences like a visit to the Toyota factory or watching a sumo match for you. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!