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Nagoya

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Nagoya

Nagoya is a vibrant industrial city in Japan. As a central hub in the Aichi region in central Japan, it is a major economic force, hosting local automotive giants. This region has also witnessed the evolution of samurai and ninja cultures. It is now converging into the heart of Japan's automobile and aircraft manufacturing sectors, making it an ideal destination for car enthusiasts. The city boasts attractions like the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park, providing captivating insights.

The Chukyo area surrounding the city offers an array of experiences, from historic castles and delectable cuisine to scenic train journeys, captivating museums, and lively bars. Notable sites include Atsuta Shrine, Shirotori Garden, Nagoya Castle, Legoland Park, Tokugawa Art Museum, and Noritake Garden. Culinary exploration is necessary, as Nagoya-meshi, the city's local cuisine, reflects its historical connection as a port and a link between Kyoto and Edo. Nagoya's culinary scene is diverse, featuring dishes like chicken wings, Italian fusion spaghetti, and even adventurous options like raw chicken sashimi. While visiting, a stop at Don Quijote, a popular discount store chain, offers a unique shopping experience. Nagoya's journey from an overshadowed city to a dynamic destination seamlessly fuses history, industry, and culture, inviting travelers to discover its multifaceted charm.

Get to Know Nagoya

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Nagoya

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Nagoya

A guide to Nagoya's local transportation

Train

Subway

Taxis

City Bus

Meguru Tour Bus

Bicycle Rental

Trains in Nagoya operate from Nagoya Station to all directions with the main Tokaido and Chuo lines. You can also switch to the subway at Nagoya Station. Meitetsu trains are the best choice for mobility to the Inuyama, Tokoname, or Arimatsu areas, with a vast train network between Aichi Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture. Besides Meitetsu, Kintetsu also connects Nagoya with Osaka and other major cities in Japan. Tickets can be booked online through the Meitetsu website or at the station.

Practical Tips for Nagoya

Things to prepare and best way to visit

Can I take a day trip to Nagoya?

The short answer is yes. The Shinkansen bullet train takes an hour and 40 minutes from Tokyo and 35 minutes from Kyoto, so a day trip to Nagoya is possible. Make sure to visit Nagoya Castle, which features a museum displaying its rich history and is a must-see attraction in the city. Within 15 minutes from the Nagoya Station, explore the world's largest planetarium at the City Science Museum. Discover Aichi Prefecture's famous company history at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, or delve into samurai culture at the Tokugawa Art Museum. Explore Hisaya-odori Garden Flarie and Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine, among other beautiful parks and shrines.

What is the most popular attraction near Nagoya?

Ghibli Park, a new theme park inspired by Studio Ghibli's beloved films, opened in 2022 near Nagoya. You can explore themed areas such as Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, and Dondoko Forest. Stroll, feel the wind, and immerse yourself in the wonder, as Ghibli Park does not have big attractions or rides. Ghibli Park is accessible within an hour from Nagoya. While Ghibli Park is located in Aichi Prefecture, the Ghibli Museum is situated in Mitaka, a city in Tokyo Metropolis. Make sure you do not get both places mixed up.

When is the best time to visit Nagoya?

Traveling to Nagoya during any of Japan's four seasons is an excellent idea. During winter, engage in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Take part in the paramount summer event, the yearly Atsuta Festival, or indulge in relaxation at an onsen (hot spring). Spring brings cherry blossom events at Nagoya Castle. Admire illuminated cherry blossoms at night. Nagoya transforms with red maple leaves in autumn. Do not miss the Nagoya Festival's parade showcasing the city's cultural pride and heritage.

What should I eat when in Nagoya?

Nagoya is the nation's top producer of unagi (freshwater eel), grilled and coated with a rich, dark sauce atop rice known as hitsumabushi. Savor kishimen, broad, flat wheat noodles reminiscent of udon or soba. Nagoya cuisine often features mame miso or tamari soy sauce, evident in dishes like misokatsu (tonkatsu with miso sauce) and misonokomi (miso broth noodles). An array of restaurants dots the city, particularly around Nagoya Station and Sakae.

How do I get around Nagoya?

Explore Nagoya City with the Me~guru Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus. This convenient bus offers a tour of popular attractions. Enjoy unlimited rides on the Me~guru Bus for a day with a special one-day pass (500 yen for adults and 250 yen for kids). Show this pass for discounts at various sites, eateries, and souvenir shops. For a single ride (210 yen for adults and 100 yen for kids), pay by cash or an IC card. IC cards are rechargeable payment cards for train tickets and electronic transactions. Manaca is a widely used IC card in Nagoya, available at the city's train stations.