Nagoya is a great stopover city between Tokyo and Osaka. It has a fusion of both Kanto and Kansai cultures, mixed with a uniqueness of its own. Compared to other major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, it doesn't seem as big, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't spend your time exploring!
Nagoya-jyou
One of the most iconic attractions in Nagoya is the castle. As with many castles in Japan, most of the castle was destroyed during WWII, but has since been magnificently rebuilt and maintained. Inside is an array of historical artifacts, stories, and models that you can browse through. On the top floor, you can see out over the entire city of Nagoya from every angle. Sometimes, they have an acting troupe that dress as samurai and their attendants who walk through the castle grounds and interact with visiting guests. There are also many small shops and cafes that you can stop at. Free English guides are available.
Cost: 500 yen Hours: 9am - 4:30pm (closed Dec. 29th - Jan. 1st)
Access: About 15min from Nagoya Station by bus
For more information, please visit the official Nagoya Castle website.
Nagoya Aquarium
Nagoya also boasts an impressive aquarium, one of the only few in Japan that has Orcas on display. It has different themed rooms along with large enclosures to give its guests an up close view into the lives of the sea creatures they keep here.
Cost: 2,000 yen Hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (hours change during Golden Week, summer, and winter)
Access: Around 30min from Nagoya Station by train
For more information, please visit the official Nagoya Aquarium website.
Miso-Katsu
One of Nagoya's delicacies is "miso-katsu", which is tonkatsu (pork that has been breaded and lightly fried) dipped into a red miso sauce. Usually a set meal comes with the tonkatsu, rice, pickled vegetables, soup, and endless cabbage.
Recommendation: "Keitei", located in the Towers Plaza of Nagoya Station, 13th floor, open 11am to 11pm
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