Discover Nagoya
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Often overlooked for the neighbouring cities of Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo, Nagoya has much to offer travellers looking for something off the beaten track.
This well-connected city is filled with historic landmarks that date back thousands of years – including Nagoya Castle, the first castle to become a designated National Treasure, and the ancient Atsuta Shrine, the legendary sacred sword. Whether you choose to wander through beautiful Japanese gardens or relax in a traditional Onsen, there’s no shortage of things to do in Nagoya. So, to ensure you make the most of your time in the city, be sure to follow our top recommendations.

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Things to do in Nagoya

Enjoy a royal visit to Nagoya Castle

When Nagoya castle was built in 1612, it was one of the largest castles in the country – home to the Owari Tokugawa clan. Though much of it was destroyed in WWII, it has since been rebuilt and is still considered one of Japan’s most prominent castles today. During the summer, Nagoya Castle hosts the Summer Night Festival, when the grounds are lit up by a dazzling lantern display and traditional dances are performed to honour Japanese ancestors.

Visit the ancient Atsuta Shrine

With a history said to span almost 2,000 years, the Atstuta Shrine is the oldest landmark in Nagoya. It houses one of the three sacred treasures of Japan: a legendary sacred sword known as Kusanagi no Tsurugi (Grass-cutting sword), and has been one of the greatest places of worship for Japan’s native religion, Shinto, since ancient times. Also enshrined here are the "Five Great Gods of Atsuta", all of whom are connected to the legendary narratives of the sacred sword.

Make your way around the city’s museums

Nagoya is a city not only steeped in history, but world-leading technology, too –best uncovered at its many museums. Learn about the Samurai at the Tokugawa Art Museum, which houses more than 10,000 pieces of Samurai armour, swords, scrolls and more. For a more futuristic experience, the Nagoya Science Museum is home to the biggest planetarium in the world, and for engineering enthusiasts, the Toyota Exhibition Hall displays some of the most cutting-edge technology being currently worked on.

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