Nagoya Travel Guide: Japan’s Underrated Urban Gem Between Tokyo and Kyoto

Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city and the capital of Aichi Prefecture, is often overlooked by travelers rushing between Tokyo and Kyoto — but that’s a mistake.This modern metropolis offers a perfect blend of samurai heritage, cutting-edge architecture, and culinary excellence, all wrapped in an atmosphere that feels authentically local.

Whether you’re exploring its restored Nagoya Castle, savoring miso katsu and hitsumabushi, or discovering futuristic attractions at the Toyota Commemorative Museum, Nagoya surprises visitors with its quiet confidence and cultural depth.

A Glimpse Into Nagoya’s History

Nagoya’s story began as a castle town built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the 17th century. The city flourished under the Owari branch of the Tokugawa family, whose influence remains visible in Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most important Shinto sites housing a sacred imperial sword.Despite wartime destruction, Nagoya’s spirit of craftsmanship endured — evolving into Japan’s manufacturing powerhouse, home to Toyota and an innovation-driven economy that shapes the nation’s future.

Top Things to Do in Nagoya

1. Nagoya Castle (名古屋城)

A symbol of the city’s samurai past, the castle features golden shachihoko (tiger-headed carp) gleaming from its rooftops and beautifully reconstructed interiors. The surrounding park explodes in cherry blossoms each spring.

2. Atsuta Shrine (熱田神宮)

Over 1,900 years old, this sacred site draws millions of pilgrims annually. The tranquil cedar groves and historical relics create a serene escape within the city.

3. Osu Shopping District

A maze of vintage stores, cosplay shops, and street food stalls. Try taiyaki, tako senbei, and the local favorite miso katsu while browsing quirky boutiques.

4. Nagoya City Science Museum

Home to one of the world’s largest planetariums, this interactive museum is a must for families and science lovers.

5. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Discover how a textile company became Japan’s automotive giant. Perfect for design, engineering, and innovation enthusiasts.

6. Sakae District

Nagoya’s downtown core — filled with shopping, nightlife, and the iconic Nagoya TV Tower offering 360° city views.

🍜 What to Eat in Nagoya

Nagoya’s cuisine is bold, rich, and deeply satisfying — reflecting its down-to-earth yet inventive character.

• Miso Katsu: Tonkatsu topped with thick, savory red miso sauce — Nagoya’s signature dish.

• Hitsumabushi: Grilled eel over rice, enjoyed in three stages — plain, with toppings, and as soup.

• Tebasaki: Spicy-sweet chicken wings, best paired with beer.

• Kishimen: Flat udon noodles served in soy broth, a comforting Aichi staple.

• Tenmusu: Shrimp tempura wrapped in rice and nori — perfect for on-the-go snacking.

  
  

Tip: Try the Yabaton restaurant chain for authentic miso katsu or Atsuta Horaiken for traditional hitsumabushi.

Getting There & Around

Nagoya sits conveniently on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line — just 1 hour 40 minutes from Tokyo and 35 minutes from Kyoto.The Nagoya Subway network makes exploring easy, while Centrair International Airport (NGO) connects the city globally.

Use IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, or Toica) for seamless transit across trains, subways, and buses.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms at Nagoya Castle and Tsuruma Park.

• Autumn (October–November): Perfect weather and fall foliage in nearby Inuyama or Korankei Gorge.

• Winter (December–February): Crisp air, winter illuminations, and hearty miso dishes.

  
  

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel (inside Nagoya Station) — unbeatable convenience and views.

• Mid-range: Hotel Trusty Nagoya Sakae — stylish and central.

• Budget: Guest House Otohaya Bessou — artsy, social, and near Osu.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Nagoya isn’t loud about its beauty — it reveals it gradually, through warm hospitality, flavorful food, and living history.For travelers seeking authentic Japan beyond the tourist trail, Nagoya is the perfect midpoint between old and new, Tokyo and Kyoto, innovation and tradition.