Nagoya

名古屋

Japan's fourth-largest city and the capital of Aichi Prefecture, serving as the economic heart of the Chūbu region. Notable for its castle, automotive industry heritage, and excellent museums including the Tokugawa Art Museum.

Things to do

• Nagoya Castle — Explore this iconic reconstructed feudal castle with its distinctive golden dolphins (kinshachi) perched on the roof, featuring samurai armor exhibits and panoramic city views from the keep.
• Tokugawa Art Museum — View one of Japan's finest collections of samurai swords, armor, and tea ceremony utensils, including National Treasures from the Tokugawa family's personal collection.
• Toyota Museum — Discover Japan's automotive heritage through vintage and modern vehicles, assembly line exhibits, and interactive displays showcasing Toyota's innovation journey.
• Osu Shopping District — Walk through this vibrant covered arcade stretching over 2 kilometers with traditional shops, modern boutiques, street food stalls, and the historic Osu Kannon Temple.
• Atsuta Shrine — Pay respects at one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, home to one of the three sacred Imperial Regalia and surrounded by peaceful forested grounds.
• Sakae District — Experience Nagoya's modern energy in this bustling entertainment and shopping hub with department stores, restaurants, theaters, and a lively nightlife scene.

Food to try

• Miso Katsu — Breaded and fried pork cutlet served with a thick, savory-sweet miso-based sauce unique to Nagoya, often paired with cabbage and rice.
• Hitsumabushi — Grilled freshwater eel (unagi) served over rice in a four-part tasting experience: plain, with toppings, as a soup, and as a bowl, allowing diners to appreciate different flavor dimensions.
• Tebasaki — Crispy fried chicken wings seasoned with sweet soy glaze and spices, a beloved local snack found at izakayas and street vendors throughout the city.
• Kishimen — Thick, flat wheat noodles served in a light soy-based broth with various toppings like chicken, egg, and green onions, a comforting Nagoya specialty.
• Doteki (Nagoya-style Okonomiyaki) — A savory pancake made with cabbage and flour, cooked on a griddle and topped with a thick miso-based sauce, bonito flakes, and aonori seaweed powder.

Local customs & good to know

• Directness in Service — Nagoya locals and service staff are known for straightforward, efficient communication; don't interpret this directness as rudeness, as it reflects regional business culture and practicality.
• Omotenashi Etiquette — Respect the tradition of thoughtful hospitality by being courteous to service staff, removing shoes in appropriate venues, and following quiet conduct on public transport.
• Regional Pride — Nagoyans take pride in their local identity and history as a manufacturing and trading hub; showing genuine interest in local specialties, history, and traditions will be well-received.