Nagoya

Japan, Asia

Nagoya, Japan's fourth-largest city, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Renowned for its industrial prowess and friendly atmosphere, it boasts unique attractions like the stunning Nagoya Castle with its golden shachihoko, the innovative Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and Osu Kannon Temple’s bustling shopping district. Don't miss the city's famous cuisine, such as hitsumabushi (grilled eel) and miso katsu. With a rich cultural tapestry and tasty dishes, Nagoya offers a compelling experience for all travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Nagoya

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Nagoya

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Nagoya Castle

Explore a historic castle with stunning gardens.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Osu Shopping District

Shop at vibrant markets and unique boutiques.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Atsuta Shrine

Discover one of Japan's most revered shrines.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Nagoya City Science Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample Nagoya Cuisine at Hitsumabushi

Savor grilled eel served over rice.

No booking required
6

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Nagoya's Port Area

Enjoy waterfront attractions and the aquarium.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum

Learn about the history of Toyota and its innovations.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

See the Nagoya TV Tower

Get panoramic views from the observation deck.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit Shirotori Garden

Relax in a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Tokugawa Art Museum

See a rich collection of samurai artifacts.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nagoya City Art Museum

Enjoy modern and contemporary art exhibitions.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Join a Sake Tasting Tour

Taste local sake and learn about production.

Booking required
13

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Nagoya Matsuri Festival

Experience traditional parades and cultural events.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Yen

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Japanese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curry Rice

Rice served with Japanese curry sauce. (National dish)

Sushi

Vinegared rice with raw fish or vegetables.

Ramen

Noodles in broth, often with meat or vegetables.

Tempura

Battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

Okonomiyaki

V

Savory pancake with various fillings and toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Japanese

Hello

Konnichiwa

(Koh-nee-chee-wah)

Yes/No

Hai / Iie

(Hai / Ee-eh)

Thank you

Arigatou

(Ah-ree-gah-toh)

Excuse me

Sumimasen

(Soo-mee-mah-sen)

How much?

Ikura?

(Ee-koo-rah)