Top 22 Activities Nagoya: Must-Try Cuisine, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

Nagoya, Japan's fourth-largest city, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and unique culinary experiences. Nestled between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

1. Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle, once the heart of the city and region, was constructed by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. This castle, with its golden Hommaru Palace, boasts the largest floorspace of any tower keep in Japan and is one of the most important castles from the Edo Period. Although largely destroyed in World War II, the castle has been faithfully reconstructed, and many of its original gilded sliding doors and ornate decorations remain intact.

2. Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine is one of Japan's most prominent shrines, known for housing the sacred sword Kusanagi, one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. This shrine has a rich history dating back to the 2nd century and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.

3. Shirotori Garden

Located inside Shirotori Park, Shirotori Garden is the largest traditional Japanese garden in Nagoya. Designed with the help of artisans from Kanazawa, this 3.7-hectare garden offers seasonal changes in scenery, including cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Visitors can enjoy teatime in a traditional tea room and participate in various events throughout the year.

4. Osu Kannon Temple and Shopping District

Osu Kannon Temple, with a history dating back to 1333, enshrines one of Japan's most important Kannon statues. The temple is also famous for its flea market, held on the 18th and 28th of every month, and its bustling shopping district. The Osu shopping district hosts over 1,200 stores, offering everything from traditional goods to electronics, cosplay, and anime merchandise.

5. Nagoya City Science Museum

For those interested in science, the Nagoya City Science Museum is a highlight. It houses the world's largest planetarium and features interactive exhibitions, including a -30°C room where visitors can experience an aurora and a "Tornado Lab" that replicates tornados. The museum offers a comprehensive look at various scientific phenomena.

6. Osu Shopping Street

Osu Shopping Street has a history spanning over 400 years, making it a significant cultural and entertainment hub in Nagoya. This street is home to a variety of establishments, including temples, food stalls, clothing shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to discover local culture and hidden gems.

7. Noritake Garden

Noritake Garden is an award-winning destination founded by the Noritake company, a renowned name in Japan's ceramics industry. Located on the former factory grounds, this site offers a craft center, a scenic garden, and the Craft Center Noritake Museum. Visitors can engage in hands-on crafts and admire the exhibits showcasing the brand's history.

8. SCMaglev and Railway Park

This museum, run by JR Central, is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. It displays about 40 retired trains, including a maglev train, bullet trains, and steam locomotives. The park aims to provide a better understanding of the history and mechanics of these trains.

9. Yanagibashi Fish Market

Established in 1916, Yanagibashi Fish Market is a cornerstone of Nagoya's culinary scene. This market offers a glimpse into local life, with various stalls selling fresh seafood. It's an excellent place to sample local delicacies and interact with the community.

10. Tokugawa Garden and Tokugawa Art Museum

This historical site takes visitors back to the Samurai era, showcasing the legacy of the Tokugawa clan. The garden and museum complex offer a serene environment and a wealth of historical artifacts, providing insight into Japan's feudal past.

11. Nagoya City's Downtown District – Sakae

Sakae is Nagoya's bustling downtown area, known for its vibrant shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. This district is home to several top attractions, including Oasis 21, Nagoya TV Tower, and a cluster of department stores like Sunshine Sakae and Matsuzakaya.

12. Osu Antique Market

Held on the 18th and 28th of every month, the Osu Antique Market is a treasure hunter's paradise. Located just outside Osu Kannon, this flea-style market offers a wide range of unique items, crafts, and antiques.

13. Toyota Museum of Industry and Technology

Nagoya is the home of Toyota, and the Toyota Museum of Industry and Technology is a fascinating look at the company's history and innovations. The museum showcases the evolution of the automotive industry and offers insights into Toyota's technological advancements.

14. Atsuta Jingu Shrine

Atsuta Jingu Shrine is another significant historical site in Nagoya, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. It is one of the most important shrines in Japan and a place of great cultural significance.

15. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

For families and nature lovers, the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens offer a delightful day out. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, and the botanical gardens feature beautiful flora and fauna.

16. LEGOLAND Japan

Located near Nagoya, LEGOLAND Japan is a theme park that is perfect for families. It features various rides, shows, and attractions all made from LEGO bricks, providing an entertaining and educational experience.

17. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is a popular destination for marine life enthusiasts. It houses a wide range of aquatic species and offers interactive exhibits and shows.

18. Antarctic Museum and Former Research Ship Fuji

This unique museum is dedicated to Japan's Antarctic research expeditions. Visitors can explore the former research ship Fuji and learn about the country's contributions to Antarctic research.

19. Kinshachi Yokocho Alley

Kinshachi Yokocho Alley is a charming area known for its traditional Japanese architecture and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to experience local culture and enjoy traditional food and drinks.

20. Midland Square

Midland Square is Nagoya's tallest building, offering high-end shopping, a cinema, and a Toyota Automobile Showroom. The Sky Promenade on the top floors provides a stunning 360-degree view of the city.

21. Endonji Shopping Street and Shikemichi

Endonji Shopping Street and Shikemichi are known for their nostalgic atmosphere and traditional Japanese cafes. This area is also home to the Kabuki Cafe "Nagoya-za," which offers a unique blend of traditional theater and modern entertainment.

22. Ghibli Park

For fans of Studio Ghibli, Ghibli Park is a must-visit. Located near Nagoya, this theme park features attractions and exhibits based on the beloved animated films of Hayao Miyazaki and other Ghibli creators.

Dining in Nagoya

Nagoya is renowned for its unique food culture, known as "Nagoya-meshi." Some must-try dishes include:

• Miso Katsu: A popular dish featuring deep-fried pork cutlet served with miso sauce.
• Tebasaki: Deep-fried chicken wings with sweet and spicy sauce.
• Hitsumabushi: Grilled eel served on a bed of rice.
• Kishimen: Broad and flat noodles served in dashi-flavored soy sauce soup.
• Taiwan Ramen: Noodles with ground pork, stir-fried with garlic and red peppers.

Shopping in Nagoya

Nagoya offers a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional markets to modern malls:

• Osu Shopping Street: A historic shopping district with over 1,200 stores.
• AEON Mall Nagoya Noritake Garden: A modern mall with approximately 150 stores, located near Nagoya Station.
• Takashimaya Gate Tower Mall: A department store connected to Nagoya Station.
• Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima: An outlet mall accessible by a 50-minute bus ride from the city center.