The 15 Best Things To See in Nagoya
Nagoya, despite being Japan’s fourth-largest city, is often overlooked by travellers rushing between Tokyo and Kyoto. Those wise enough to take a little detour are rewarded with a fascinating blend of tradition, innovation, and vibrant culture.
From its imposing samurai-era castle to the futuristic architecture of the city’s science museums, Nagoya offers a unique mix of history and modernity.
So, in that case, here are the 15 best things to see in Nagoya!
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Table of Contents
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya sadly suffered extensive damage during the Second World War, with many of its most significant structures reduced to rubble. That included Nagoya Castle’s original structure, something that always has and always will be the city’s talisman.
Though the original structure, the 1612 structure, is long gone, the current structure has been standing since 1959. Regardless, it’s still considered one of the most beautiful castles in the country. The tower houses a museum filled with national treasures, including an exquisite collection of painted wall screens and intricately decorated sliding doors.
One of its most distinctive features is the mythical pair of shachi-hoko—ornamental creatures with the head of a tiger and the body of a fish—perched atop the roof, believed to ward off fire.
There are even treats beyond the castle walls! The serene Ninomaru-en gardens offer a tranquil escape, where visitors can stroll among manicured landscapes and enjoy a traditional cup of tea in one of its elegant teahouses.
Atsuta-jingu
In a country of many religious sites, Atsuta-jingū isn’t just another historic shrine – it’s a sacred site with nearly 1,900 years of history. This is by far one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines, with its heritage deeply woven into Japan’s imperial and mythological past.
The tranquil atmosphere comes from the magnificent garden of cypress trees in which the shrine finds itself. It’s most famous for enshrining the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, the legendary “Grass-Cutting Sword”, one of Japan’s Three Imperial Regalia.
According to myth, this blade once belonged to the storm god Susanoo, who gifted it to the warrior prince Yamato Takeru. During his campaign to conquer the eastern provinces, his enemies set a field ablaze to trap him—only for Yamato to cut through the flames with his sword, saving his own life. This dramatic tale gives the shrine its name, Atsuta, meaning “burning field”.
For an extra dose of history, don’t miss the Treasure Hall, where exquisite artwork, Noh masks, ceremonial jewellery, and ancient weaponry are on display.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
Nagoya is the beating heart of Japan’s automotive industry, hosting well-known giants like Mitsubishi and Honda, to name a few. Yet, towering above them is the mightiest monolith of them all – Toyota!
Inside the 8,000-square-meter museum is a sprawling showcase that spins a fascinating tale of how this company rose to fame. What began as nothing more than a humble textile business accelerated its way into becoming a global automotive powerhouse. Today, the brand is seen as revolutionary, with the most cutting-edge technology when it comes to automobiles and even robotics!
Visitors can marvel at vintage Toyota models, witness live demonstrations of industrial machinery, and get up close with the futuristic robotics that define the company’s innovation.
Toyota Kaikan Museum
Speaking of Toyota, these days, the company is known mostly for one thing – being one the biggest and best car manufacturers in the world. As such, Nagoya is the perfect place to see first-class craftmanship for yourself!
The Toyota Kaikan Museum houses 20 meticulously crafted vehicles produced in the nearby factory, offering a firsthand look at Toyota’s engineering excellence. But this museum isn’t just a showroom, it’s a deep-dive into how it became a global automotive titan!
As well as that, the museum showcases Toyota’s cutting-edge advancements in engineering and robotics, giving visitors a unique glimpse at the future of transportation.
Nagoya City Science Museum
As should be clear by now, Nagoya knows a thing or two when it comes to tech. Yet there would be nothing to show if it wasn’t for the magic of science! Luckily, here at the Nagoya City Science Museum, the magic of your least favourite subject is brought to life like never before! The seven-storied museum is filled with numerous dazzling exhibits with such intriguing titles as the “Tornado Lab“, the “Electric Discharge Lab“, and the “Deep Freezing Lab!”
The museum’s true showstopper lies within the iconic gigantic silver globe in the form of the world’s largest planetarium. It’s a dazzlingly realistic night sky projected across its vast dome, it’s an awe-inspiring experience that’s fun for the whole family.
Ōsu Kannon
Standing proudly within Nagoya’s most vibrant district, Ōsu Kannon stands as a revered symbol of tradition amid this tech-savvy city. It has a history stretching back to the 14th century and even had to be relocated 200 years later to avoid the frequent floods that plagued its original location.
As such, the temple has become a beacon of spiritual determination and perseverance, with it still maintaining a place in the heart of Nagoya’s locals. Today, Ōsu Kannon continues to captivate visitors with its striking architecture and serene atmosphere. Be sure to take note of the giant red paper lantern where worshippers attach omamori – charms crafted with prayers and wishes to bring good fortune to those who leave them.
Meiji-mura (Meiji Village)
Have you ever wondered what Japan was like in the 19th century? Well, wonder no more, as the Meiji-mura Village Museum is the capsule you’ve been looking for!
This living, breathing museum is a tribute to Japan’s Meiji period (1868–1912), when the nation faced some long-avoided modernization and Western influence. Within the encyclopedia of Japanese architecture are wonderful examples of period accurate hotels, bathhouses, churches and even prisons, all of which show a peculiar Western influence.
With so much to see and so little time, why not hop aboard the vintage trams, buses or even steam locomotives that roll through the village?
Nagoya TV Tower
One thing you’ll notice in Japan is that most city has their own iconic tower, and Nagoya is no different!
This pioneering 180-meter-tall monolith standing above Nagoya’s cityscape was actually the very first tower of its kind in the country. Ever since, it has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
From its observation decks, perched at 100 meters and 90 meters high, you’re treated to panoramic views where you’ll see the bustling cityscape of Nagoya. For a truly unforgettable experience, you could even spend the night here in one of the few hotels on offer.
Toganji Temple
Yet another iconic religious institution here in Nagoya is the instantly recognisable Toganji Temple. But what sets this apart from the thousands of other temples in Japan? Well, this is one of the few in the country dedicated to Hinduism!
This 16th-century masterpiece is best known for having a giant, green sculpture of the seated Buddha at its centre. It was originally built to honour the Goddess Saraswati, whose spirit is remembered each year through a vibrant festival which is held in Nagoya each May.
Be sure to visit the temple’s most famous feature – a large wood block which is said to absolve you of your sins when it’s touched.
Noritake Garden
This pristine little garden and its ceramic workshop have quite a unique backstory. The Noritake Ceramics Company was founded in 1876 by two visionary brothers with the aim of boosting Japan’s trade with Western markets.
The Noritake site is a vibrant history lesson in ceramics, offering a fascinating glimpse into the art form’s evolution. You can even get your own hands dirty by creating your own ceramic masterpiece piece in the Craft Centre & Museum.
The cherry on top is the serene gardens that surround the ceramic wonderland. You won’t find many places more peaceful than right here!
Nittai-ji Temple
While Toganji Temple is steeped in Hindu traditions, this particular temple is a testament to another cross-Asian connection. It was built in 1904 to honour the enduring friendship between Thailand and Japan.
Inside, expect to find a harmonious blend of Japanese and Thai influences in its design and artifacts. Those include items donated by King Rama V of Thailand himself, further deepening the cultural connection between the two.
Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art
Another must-see gem in Nagoya is the Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art – the final word on creativity in the region! The vast collection inside spans both celebrated Japanese and international artists.
This cultural treasure trove features iconic works by legendary figures like Henri Matisse, Max Ernst, and Pablo Picasso, alongside an impressive array of pieces that trace the evolution of Japanese art. It also showcases a chronology of Japanese art from the early 20th century to contemporary masterpieces that continue to fascinate art lovers year after year.
After you see everything in Nagoya, check out the 20 best things to see in Kyoto.
Sky Promenade
Perched atop the towering Midland Square, the Sky Promenade boasts the title of Japan’s tallest observation deck! From the 44th to 46th floors, you’ll see sweeping views of Nagoya and beyond, offering a perspective of the city that is nothing short of spectacular.
As you stroll along the massive glass windows, stop off at one the sky-high restaurants for an unforgettable meal.
SCMAGLEV and Railway Park
Japan has become synonymous with lightning-fast transport thanks to the mighty bullet train. However, Japan’s railway history far exceeds just that!
The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park offer a fascinating journey through the history of these immense mechanical giants, giving visitors a glimpse into how they helped shape modern-day Japan. From faithful steam engines to lightning-fast bullet trains, the 39 impressive beasts on display provide the perfect glimpse into the nation’s engineering prowess.
Tokugawa Art Museum
This next museum stays true to its roots with a bit more of a Japanese flair. The Tokugawa Art Museum is a treasure trove of culture, housing invaluable pieces once owned by Nagoya’s powerful Tokugawa family.
The stunning collection of 10,000 items includes exquisite paintings, delicate porcelain, and intricate weaponry, each detailing the complex history of an elite dynasty’s legacy.
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One Comment
Ben Zabulis
A great list, we;;-worth a visit !