Nagoya, the capital of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, is a vibrant and fascinating city that attracts visitors worldwide. Known for its status as a manufacturing and shipping hub in central Honshu, Nagoya is much more than just a business center. The city boasts a diverse array of cultural, historical, and entertainment attractions that are sure to delight any traveler.
Beyond its cultural offerings, Nagoya is also a hub for transportation and industry, making it an ideal destination for those interested in technology and engineering. The city is home to several Toyota-related museums, a railway park, and a science museum that boasts one of the world’s largest planetariums. Discover all the things to do in Nagoya!
UPDATE: 2023/11/01 16:49 EST BY NOAH STAATS
Four New Things To Try In Nagoya, Japan!
This article has been refreshed with four new things to do in Nagoya, including an observation tower, temple, museum, and a zoo plus a botanical garden. Remember to have fun, eat plenty of fresh seafood, and enjoy this world-class city!
Things To Do
Nagoya, Japan, is a hotspot for manufacturing, education, and historical landmarks. People can experience art, culture, cars, nature, and more here.
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1
Relic At The Kakuozan Nittaiji Temple
The Nittaiji Temple in Nagoya, Japan
- Address: Japan, 〒464-0057 Aichi, Nagoya, Chikusa Ward, Hoocho, 1 Chome−１
- Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 2 PM
Something to do while in Nagoya is visiting the Kakuozan Nittaiji Temple. Here, people can explore the Buddhist temple located in the city, built around 1904. With a rich history and stunning architecture, this temple is one of the most fascinating in the area.
The Kakuozan Nittaiji Temple is open to the public throughout the week, so you shouldn’t have issues getting in. One thing to note, this is a temple and is considered sacred; please be respectful inside.
2
Tour The SCMaglev And Railway Park
A railway train car at the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park in Nagoya
- Address: 3 Chome-2-2 Kinjofuto, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-0848, Japan
- Hours: Wednesday – Monday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Tickets: $6.61 per person
The next thing to do in Nagoya is head to the SCMaglev and Railway Park, a museum owned by Central Japan Railway Company in Nagoya, Japan. The museum opened on 14 March 2011 and features 39 full-size railway vehicles and one bus exhibit, train cab simulators, and railway model dioramas. It’s a great spot for the family or large groups and should be fun for kids.
3
See Wild Animals And Plants At Higashiyama Zoo And Botanical Gardens
The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden during the day
- Address: Japan, 〒464-0804 Aichi, Nagoya, Chikusa Ward, Higashiyama Motomachi, 3 Chome−７０
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Tickets: $3.31 per person
The next stop in Nagoya is the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a fun, family-friendly attraction in the city. Here is where people can explore one of Asia’s largest attractions, featuring a botanical garden and an amusement park. The zoo features many animals, as well as 550 species of animals and 7,000 plants.
4
Walk Over To The Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER
The TV Tower in Nagoya, Japan
- Address: 3 Chome-6-１５先 Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0003, Japan
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM (open 9 AM to 9:40 PM Saturdays)
- Tickets: $8.59 per guest
Something else to do in Nagoya, Japan, is to head over to the famed Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER, a tourist destination in the city boasting a 180-meter steel tower and multiple observation decks.
Typically, getting inside the tower won’t be long unless it’s a weekend. The Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER stands tall over the city, so even if someone can’t get in, they’ll be able to see it from below and snap photos.
5
Admire Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is a Japanese castle located in Nagoya, Japan
- Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0031, Japan
- Hours: 9 AM to 4:30 PM daily
- Tickets: $3.31 per person
The city’s castle is among the first things to see while in Nagoya. Here, tourists can explore one of Japan’s most important castle towns. This spectacular landmark, built in 1615 by the Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, symbolizes Japanese strength, power, and beauty.
Notably, the construction of this castle required meticulous work and has since been rebuilt after a bombing in 1945. Since then, this castle has been refurbished and is open to visitors daily.
Most people who have come here recommend staying for two hours, as this allows enough time to view and tour the castle and the surrounding gardens.
6
Learn Something New At Nagoya City Science Museum
Museum in Nagoya
- Address: Japan, 〒460-0008 Aichi, Nagoya, Naka Ward, Sakae, 2 Chome−17−1 芸術と科学の杜・白川公園内
- Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Another must-see destination in the city is the Nagoya City Science Museum. This is a comprehensive museum located in Sakae, Nagoya, the center of Nagoya City. Tourists and locals flock to this museum for its planetarium (the largest in the world) and the countless other displays, exhibits, and educational seminars.
The museum covers three main topics: modern technology, life sciences, and general science.
- Tickets are sold at the museum or via their website, starting at 400 yen (about $2.86 USD) for adults
7
Indulge In Ancient History At Atsuta Jingu
Leaves in Nagoya
- Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 456-8585, Japan
- Hours: Open 24 hours
Check out Atsuta Jingu, a Shinto shrine. Here, tourists can explore one of Japan’s greatest centers of worship from ancient times and learn more about Japanese culture.
Generally, this location is on the busier side, with people coming to pray from across the globe. Therefore, being respectful while at the shrine is a good idea, keeping noise and distraction minimal.
Atsuta Jingu is open 24 hours, seven days a week. However, this is a holy shrine, so being as respectful, quiet, and polite as possible here is crucial.
8
Go Behind The Scenes At Toyota Commemorative Museum Of Industry And Technology
Aeriel view of Nagoya
- Address: 4 Chome-1-35 Noritakeshinmachi, Nishi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 451-0051, Japan
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- Tickets: $3.31 per person
Another great location for tourists in Nagoya is the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. This museum features Toyota-related memorabilia and offers a deeper look into this iconic car manufacturer’s beginnings.
This attraction provides guests with interactive experiences, showcasing behind-the-scenes car manufacturing processes and displays honoring Japanese culture and heritage. For anyone who loves cars and wants to experience Japanese culture at its finest, this is the day trip for them.
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9
See The Dolphins At Port Of Nagoya Public Aquarium
City view of Nagoya, Japan
- Address: 1-3 Minatomachi, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-0033, Japan
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Tickets: $13.42 per person
Visiting the Port Of Nagoya Public Aquarium is a must for people wanting to see Nagoya’s public aquarium. Notably, this aquarium features Japan’s largest tank capacity, total area, and the country’s largest dolphin show tank. This aquarium is fun for families traveling through the site and should be a nice way to spend the afternoon.
Plan for at least a few hours, as there are shows, a museum, hundreds of species, and plenty of walking to cover.
10
Experience Buddhist Culture At Osu Kannon
Temple in Nagoya, Japan
- Address: 2 Chome-21-47 Osu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011, Japan
- Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM
Osu Kannon is a Buddhist temple dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy and Compassion, Kannon, and is a top-rated destination in the city. The temple was built during the Kamakura Period (1192-1333) and remains one of Japan’s top sites for Buddhist culture and heritage.
Like many temples and shrines in Nagoya, visitors here want to pay their respects and keep their visit as peaceful as possible. There are many other beautiful temples to visit in Japan, so there’s something for everyone here.
11
Relax At Noritake Garden
Spider in web at garden in Nagoya, Japan.
- Address: 3 Chome-1-36 Noritakeshinmachi, Nishi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 451-8501, Japan
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Just a 15-minute walk from Nagoya Station, the Noritake Garden is a must-visit attraction in the city. At this garden, people can experience the grounds of what was once a factory exporting first-class ceramics around the world that has now been transformed into a public garden space.
- The garden is open from Tuesday until Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Japan is known for its stunning gardens, with cherry blossoms being a staple for many.
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12
Feel Like A Kid At Legoland Japan Resort
Legoland Resort Nagoya
- Address: LEGOLAND Japan Limited, 1 Kinjoufutou, Nagoya-shi, 2 Chome-2, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 455-8605, Japan
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 4/5 PM
For travelers with children or who love the Lego brand, visiting Legoland Japan Resort is a fun way to begin or end a Japanese trip. Here, people can enjoy a theme park based on countless Lego products, movies, and Asia’s second Legoland attraction.
This park opened in 2017 and has since become a favorite among locals and people throughout the country. The park should take the entire day to experience, so this is for someone with extra time.
13
Best Time To Visit Nagoya, Japan
City view of Nagoya
When it comes to the best time to visit Nagoya, Japan, this is usually March-April. Spring is when the weather in Nagoya is at its prime, as well as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom towards the end of March.
The city is known for its stunning spring landscape, cherry blossoms, and other Japanese plants. Japan, in general, is gorgeous to see in the springtime.
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Autumn is another great time to see Nagoya, although the weather may be colder. As long as people don’t mind bringing a jacket, then the fall will be the next best time to see the area.
Summers in Japan tend to be warmer, although many people still find visiting the country during this time a great idea.
The cherry blossoms bloom throughout Nagoya, Japan, in late March/early April, so this is one of the better times to visit the area.
14
Best Ways To Get Around Nagoya, Japan
People walking across the street in Nagoya, Japan
For tourists in Nagoya, one of the best ways to get around is via bus. In the city, people can take the subway or bus to various hot spots, including six lines: Higashiyama, Meijo, Meiko, Tsurumai, Sakuradori, and Kamiida.
Of course, there are also taxis in Nagoya, so people can call them as well for the airport, hotel, or even as they’re headed to dinner. Japan is a modern country, boasting one of the world’s most technological public transit systems.
15
Where To Eat In Nagoya
Sushi in Japanese restaurant, Japan
For those hungry in Nagoya, this city offers anything and everything anyone could imagine. Although Japanese food is delicious, Nagoya is somewhat of a global hub in the food department, with Italian cuisine, American food, French food, and even BBQ.
Here are a few highly-rated restaurants in Nagoya to check out:
Breakfast: EARLY BIRDS BREAKFAST
- Address: 4 Chome-14-20 Chiyoda, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0012, Japan
- Serving: Casual all-day breakfast eatery featuring omelets, sandwiches & other down-home American fare.
Lunch: Midtown BBQ
- Address: 5 Chome-24-3 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, Japan
- Serving: Casual dining featuring BBQ, craft cocktails, and live music on weekends.
Dinner/Drinks: Coat of Arms Bar and Restaurant
- Address: Japan, 〒460-0003 Aichi, Nagoya, Naka Ward, Nishiki, 2 Chome−6−12 バー＆レストラン
- Serving: Commonwealth-owned sports bar and grill serving great food and drink right in the heart of Nagoya, Japan.
Japan is known for its food, whether it’s traditional or from across the world. From sushi to ramen, there are many culinary traditions to appreciate in this beautiful country.
Don’t be afraid to try something new!
16
Where To Stay In Nagoya
Nagoya, Japan, at night.
The city offers a bit of everything for people wanting to book a hotel in Nagoya. Whether someone wants to splurge and stay in a 5-star resort or book something more affordable, this city will be a great choice for every budget and traveler.
Here are some highly-rated hotels in Nagoya to consider:
Luxury Hotels
Mid-Tier Hotels
- Hilton Nagoya: 4-star hotel featuring an indoor pool, restaurant, room service, fitness center, bar/lounge, coffee maker, and coffee shop
- Nagoya Tokyu Hotel: 4-star hotel featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, business center, coffee machine, and free Wi-Fi
Budget Hotels
- Meitetsu Grand Hotel: 3-star hotel offering a restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, coffee shop, banquet facilities, and free Wi-Fi
- Koko Hotel Nagoya Sakae: 3-star hotel offering Free Wi-Fi, Flat-screen TV, Air-conditioned rooms, Enhanced cleaning, and daily housekeeping.
So, there’s something for everyone. Nagoya is a large city, meaning there are countless hotels, motels, rentals, and even hostels to consider.
17
Tips For Staying In Nagoya, Japan
Temple in Nagoya
For people staying in Nagoya, Japan, there are some things to be mindful of. First, this is a bustling city, meaning people can expect to be able to visit year-round. However, spring is the best time for non-locals, as this is when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
In addition, this city is home to many temples, shrines, and places of worship. While visiting these, guests want to be quiet and respectful. Loud noises, flash photography, and inappropriate clothing are a few things to avoid in these sacred spaces.
Public transportation is also very good in Japan, including throughout Nagoya. Therefore, tourists can ride the subway, hop on a bus, or do a bit of both to get to their destinations.
18
How To Spend The Perfect Day In Nagoya
Two people order food in Nagoya Japan
Spending the perfect day in Nagoya, Japan, shouldn’t be difficult. To start the day, it’s a great idea to head to a local café or coffee shop to grab a drink and a pastry before venturing off into the city.
From there, tourists can travel to one of the city’s parks, museums, temples, or even a world-class planetarium, all things that even the youngest visitor will enjoy.
Into the evening, Nagoya lights up, and the real party begins. Tourists may want to head to a top-rated restaurant, then to a nightclub or public park where music might play.
Nagoya is a city that never truly stops entertaining, so there’s something for everybody. Have fun!
FAQ
Q: What Is Nagoya, Japan, Famous For?
Nagoya is a major port and transportation hub in Japan’s Chubu region, as well as being a tourist hot spot. Especially in the spring, travelers from across the globe flock to Nagoya, Japan, to witness the cherry blossoms bloom throughout the city/country.
Q: Is Visiting Nagoya Cheaper Than Visiting Tokyo, Japan?
Although traveling to either city isn’t “cheap,” Nagoya is often considered more affordable than Tokyo. This is partly because Nagoya isn’t the nation’s capital city, as well as being a bit smaller in size/population.
Regardless, there are ways to find affordable vacation spots in both Tokyo and Nagoya.
Q: Do People Speak English in Nagoya, Japan?
Although Nagoya is Japanese-speaking, many people also speak English. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions will typically cater to English-speaking people, so finding this should not be difficult.
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