Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, offers something different to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Due to its strong links with the previous Tokugawa era, Aichi Prefecture’s capital has a unique gastronomic culture and a lengthy history.
It’s a research and industry hub with historical charm.
Toyota, the largest automaker, is there.
It’s also a castle town.
So if you are planning a visit to Nagoya, there really is a lot to do if you know where to go.
Which this post will help you with.
Places to Visit in Nagoya
Although we all have different interests and tastes, I’ve tried to compile a list of the best places.
Some can be done in an hour or two, while others require more time.
While it’ll be nearly impossible to try them all, I hope this gives you an idea of what to do.
These are not in any particular order but are favourite attractions in Nagoya.
Atsuta Shrine
Atsuta Shrine, or atsuta jingu, is a fascinating and historic place to visit in Nagoya.
It’s one of the oldest shrines in Japan and has a rich history that dates back over 1,900 years.
The shrine is surrounded by lush greenery and is a peaceful place to relax and take a break from the busy city.
You can learn about the shrine’s history and see the beautiful buildings, including the main hall and the treasure house with over 4,000 sacred objects.
There’s also a traditional Japanese garden that’s perfect for a stroll. If you’re lucky, you might even see a traditional Shinto wedding.
Atsuta Shrine is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history.
Tokugawa Art Museum
The Tokugawa Art Museum is a hidden gem in Nagoya and a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese art and history.
The museum showcases the collection of the Tokugawa family, who ruled Japan during the Edo period.
The collection includes beautiful works of art, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and more.
You can see traditional Japanese art and get a glimpse into the life and culture of the samurai class during the Edo period.
The museum is set in a beautiful traditional Japanese building and surrounded by a peaceful Japanese garden, making it a serene and enjoyable place to visit.
Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the Tokugawa Art Museum is a fascinating place to explore and learn about Japanese art and history.
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is a historic landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Nagoya.
The castle was built in the 1600s and has a rich history that is deeply entwined with the history of Japan.
You can explore the castle’s beautiful grounds and see the magnificent main tower, which offers stunning city views.
The castle’s museum is a fascinating place to learn about the history of Nagoya and the role the castle played in Japanese history.
The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats, making it a peaceful and serene place to explore.
Osu Kannon Temple & Shopping Arcade
Osu Kannon Temple is a vibrant and bustling destination in Nagoya that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and shopping.
The temple is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and design.
What’s more, it’s home to a large statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon.
The temple is surrounded by a vibrant street market filled with shops selling various goods.
From traditional Japanese crafts and second-hand clothing to modern souvenirs, it has it all.
You can explore the temple and the surrounding shops and experience the lively atmosphere of this unique destination.
Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or looking for a unique cultural experience, Osu Kannon Temple and the shops are a must-visit.
Shirotori Garden
The 3.7-hectare Shirotori Garden offers a glimpse of historic Japan.
The gardens and its charming architecture provide varied views each time according to tide flows, sunshine on the lakes, and seasons.
Many Japanese garden designs use nature and the local environment.
The garden’s main pond depicts Ise Bay, the high hill in the southwest quadrant is volcanic Mt. Ontake, and the stream from the hill is the Kiso River.
Walking pathways surrounding the lakes cross Japanese wooden arched bridges, through little waterfalls and rocks, and into the forest.
Everything is soothing.
Cherry blossoms and spring foliage are welcome.
Summer brings dragonflies and cicadas.
The reflections in the lakes enhance autumn’s crimson, gold, and yellow foliage.
Winter’s beautiful sky, little cold, and peacefulness transport you from Nagoya’s hustle and bustle.
Eat out and shop in Sakae
The Sakae area in Nagoya is a bustling shopping and dining hub.
It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a vibrant and exciting experience in the city.
You’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect destination for a day of eating and shopping.
Some of the popular places to visit in the Sakae area include Oasis 21, a futuristic shopping and dining complex.
And the PARCO and LOFT department stores, which offer a wide range of shops and dining options.
You can also find a variety of restaurants offering local Nagoya food.
Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or just looking for a fun day out, the Sakae area is a must-visit destination in Nagoya.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
If you’re interested in vehicles and how they’re created, the Toyota Museum is a must-see.
The museum contains a lot of exciting stuff to view and learn about.
For example, ancient automobiles, manufacturing operations, and even cutting-edge technology.
You can see how automobiles have evolved throughout time.
As well as how the Toyota corporation has expanded and significantly influenced the globe.
Interactive exhibits and activities are available to make learning about vehicles more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or interested in technology, the Toyota Museum is a must-see.
Noritake Garden
Noritake Garden is a great place to go if you like nature and beautiful things.
It’s a huge garden with many different kinds of plants, flowers, and trees.
It’s a great place to relax and have a picnic.
There are bridges, streams, and a big pond to watch fish swim.
It’s a great place to walk and enjoy nature’s beauty.
There is also a museum that tells the story of the Noritake company and how they made beautiful dishes and pottery.
So, Noritake Garden is the place to go if you want to learn about history, enjoy nature, and see some cool things!
Toganji Temple
Toganji Temple is a historic and peaceful destination that offers a unique cultural experience for visitors to Nagoya.
The temple dates back to the 1600s and is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and design.
You can explore the temple’s peaceful grounds and see the magnificent main hall, home to a giant Buddha statue.
Beautiful gardens and peaceful walking paths also surround the temple.
This makes it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find some peace and tranquillity.
SCMAGLEV and Railway Park
The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in trains and technology.
The park showcases the latest in high-speed rail technology, including the famous SCMAGLEV trains that can reach speeds of up to 500 km/h.
You can learn about the history of trains in Japan and see a variety of old and new trains on display.
There are interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences, making it a fun and educational place to visit. You can even try your hand at driving a train simulator!
The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is perfect for train enthusiasts, families, and anyone who wants to learn more about the fascinating world of trains and high-speed rail.
Nippon Gaishi Hall
Nippon Gaishi Hall is a modern and impressive destination in Nagoya that offers a unique blend of sports, culture, and entertainment.
The hall is home to various events, from sports games and concerts to exhibitions and trade shows.
You can experience the excitement of a live game or performance and enjoy the modern facilities of the hall if your timing is lucky.
Try Nagoya Food
For anyone visiting the city, the food scene is great.
Here are some of the most famous dishes from Nagoya:
Hitsumabushi – This dish consists of grilled eel on top of a bed of rice and is a specialty of Nagoya.
It is often served in four different styles, allowing you to enjoy it in various ways.
Tebasaki – Tebasaki are crispy chicken wings, a popular snack in Nagoya.
They are often coated in a savory sauce and grilled to perfection.
Miso Katsu – This dish consists of a breaded pork cutlet that is covered in a rich, savory miso sauce.
It is a popular local dish that is enjoyed by many people in Nagoya.
Kishimen – Kishimen are flat noodles that are a speciality of Nagoya.
They are often served in a light, flavorful broth and are a popular choice for a quick and delicious meal.
Tenmusu – Tenmusu is a popular street food in Nagoya that consists of steamed rice wrapped in a nori seaweed sheet and filled with shrimp tempura.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, the famous food of Nagoya is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium
The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is a world-class facility that showcases the amazing diversity of marine life.
The aquarium offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the underwater world.
What’s more, the collection of marine life at the aquarium is truly impressive.
With everything from colourful tropical fish to fascinating sea mammals like dolphins and sea lions.
Visitors can interact with the animals through hands-on exhibits and informative presentations.
The Nagoya Public Aquarium is a fun place to visit.
What’s more, it’s a valuable learning experience for anyone interested in marine biology, ecology, and the natural world.
The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium also has a great night show in summer.
JR Central Towers
The JR Central Towers is a towering skyscraper located at Nagoya station.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the city’s modern and innovative side.
The towers offer a range of activities and attractions that are sure to keep you entertained and engaged.
Observation Deck – The observation deck on the top floor of the tower offers breathtaking views of Nagoya and its surroundings.
You can take in the sights from 360-degree panoramic windows, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos.
Restaurants and cafes – The JR Central Towers also features a range of restaurants and cafes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a relaxing sit-down meal, there’s something for everyone.
Shops – The towers also house a range of shops and boutiques, offering a great selection of souvenirs and gifts to take back home.
You can also find local products, such as traditional crafts and snacks.
Meeting and Conference Facilities – The JR Central Towers also offers meeting and conference facilities, making it a great option for business travelers.
Fun fact: Nagoya station is the largest in the world, where you can walk from one end to the other all underground.
Nagoya City Science Museum
This is a fun and educational place to visit for anyone interested in science and space.
The museum features a wide range of interactive exhibits that showcase the latest in science and technology, including robots, virtual reality experiences, and more.
The planetarium is a highlight of the museum, offering stunning shows that take you on a journey through the stars and beyond.
What’s more, it’s currently the largest planetarium in the world.
You can explore the wonders of the universe and learn about our place in the cosmos.
The Nagoya City Science Museum is a must-visit destination in Nagoya.
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great destination for anyone interested in animals and nature.
It’s one of Japan’s best zoos.
With a diverse collection of animals, from lions to koalas, you can observe and learn about different species from up close.
The petting zoo offers a hands-on experience, allowing you to touch and feed some of the animals.
Moreover, the botanical garden boasts a collection of plants from all over the world.
This showcases the diversity of nature found on different continents.
It’s a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation of the natural world while having a fun day out.
Nagoya TV Tower
The tower offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings from its observation deck, located at the top of the tower.
You can admire the panoramic views of Nagoya, the surrounding mountains and sea, and even as far as the distant islands.
The tower also features a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a revolving restaurant.
Legoland Japan
Legoland is an exciting and entertaining destination in Nagoya that is perfect for families and kids of all ages.
The park is filled with a variety of interactive rides and attractions, including a wide range of LEGO-themed experiences.
You can explore the park and see amazing LEGO creations, from towering skyscrapers to famous landmarks and iconic scenes from popular movies.
The park also features a variety of hands-on activities.
These include LEGO building and engineering workshops.
Just be careful as they do not allow food to be taken inside.
What’s on offer inside is not the best nor the cheapest.
Nittaiji Temple
Nittaiji Temple is a beautiful and historic destination in Nagoya that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Nagoya’s 1904 Buddhist temple honors Thailand-Japan connections.
As expected, King Rama V of Thailand contributed many artifacts that represent Japanese and Thai traditions.
The temple is one of the oldest in the region and is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
You can explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate carvings and sculptures, and learn about its history and significance.
The temple is also home to a variety of seasonal events and festivals, making it a perfect destination for tourists visiting Nagoya.
Bonus: Nagashima Spa Land
Nagashima Spa Land is a one-of-a-kind amusement park that offers a thrilling and exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
With roller coasters, water rides, and a huge Ferris wheel, there’s something for everyone here.
At the ticket gate, you can choose between a pass for the amusement park, or the water park (in summer months).
Or, if you have time, do both!
You can also enjoy a variety of food options.
From classic park treats to sit-down dining, and shop for souvenirs at the park’s many shops.
In addition, there is an Anpanman museum for little ones and a large outlet shopping mall too.
And one more thing.
This is actually just outside of Nagoya in neighboring Mie prefecture, just 30 km away.
If you are staying in Nagoya, here’s how to get there.
Before You Go
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Nagoya.
From shopping and entertainment to eating out to parks to more.
What’s more, if you are nearby, there’s a lot to do around Nagoya as well.
And without the crazy number of tourists you’ll encounter in Kyoto or Tokyo.
If you have time, spend a day or two here and enjoy this lesser-known Japanese city.
