11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

Thanks to its position opening onto the Pacific Ocean, Nagoya has developed into Japan's busiest port. It has also long been an important manufacturing site of such traditional industries as ceramics and textiles. The ceramics industry was established here in the 12th century and has become somewhat of a tourist attraction thanks to its numerous workshops and factory tours.

Many of the city's historic sites remain intact and are great places to visit for tourists. These include the magnificent 16th-century castle, which like much of the city center, was rebuilt after the destruction of WWII.

These days, this large city is a pleasure to explore for its excellent network of wide modern streets; world-class attractions, including museums and art galleries; and countless points of interest, such as its many historic shrines and temples. You'll find no shortage of things to see and do.

Discover the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top tourist attractions in Nagoya.

1. Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle was completely rebuilt in 1959 and remains one of the city's most important (and visited) landmarks. Originally constructed in 1612, this splendid moated complex includes highlights such as its splendid 48-meter-tall main tower. Famous for its two gilded dolphins (shachi) high up on its gables, the tower now houses a museum containing numerous art treasures, including painted wall screens, sliding doors, and wall paintings mainly of the Kano school.

From the fifth floor of the tower, visitors can enjoy extensive views of the city and the Nobi Plain. Three of the original corner towers survive, along with the second gateway and walls, and they are fun to explore. So, too, is the nearby Ninomaru Garden with its teahouse.

Be sure to look out for the golden fish statues perched atop the castle, too. They represent the mythological "shachihoko," a creature that's half fish and half tiger, and are perched some 50 meters above the ground.. If you're not averse to winter travel, seeing the castle shrouded in snow is a never-to-be-forgotten experience.

Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0031

2. Atsuta Jingu (Shrine)

Atsuta Jingu (Shrine)

The Atsuta Shrine, widely considered the most important Shinto shrine in Japan, was established in the first century AD. It's most famous for its preserved Imperial insignia, the "grass-mowing sword" (kusanagi-no-tsurugi), one of only three in the country.

According to Japanese mythology, the sword originally belonged to the storm god Susanoo but was presented to legendary hero Yamato-takeru as he set out to conquer the eastern provinces. When his enemies tried to kill him by setting the long grass on fire, he saved himself by mowing the grass with his sword (the name of the shrine, Atsuta, means "burning field").

In the northern part of the wooded precinct is the principal shrine, Hongu, surrounded by an enclosing wall. To the east is the Treasury, a modern building that contains a large number of works of art including old and modern paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional masks. Hot Tip: With nine million visitors annually, the Atsuta Shrine is busy, so try to time your visit near opening or closing to avoid the crowds, or during the off-peak seasons such as spring or autumn.

Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 456-8585

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Nagoya

3. The Museum Meiji-mura (Meiji Village)

The Museum Meiji-mura (Meiji Village)

Just 24 kilometers north of Nagoya's city center, the Meiji-mura Village Museum in Inuyama is an open-air museum featuring many fine examples of Japanese architecture from the Meiji period of 1868 to 1912.

All told, the site consists of more than 60 buildings of interest that were brought here and reassembled from across the country. Of special interest are elements of the old Imperial Hotel, a unique design created by famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Other fascinating structures include a prison, post office, bathhouse, churches, and homes, many of them influenced by design elements from western nations. Numerous buildings are open to the public and house interesting collections of furniture, temporary exhibits, and other items related to the respective buildings. There's also a historic tram and bus service (as well as a vintage steam train), which makes this a fun diversion for kids.

If you're traveling with kids, try to allocate some time in your itinerary to visit the nearby Little World Museum of Man. They'll love the opportunity to dress up in traditional costumes from around the world and learn about different cultures.

Address: 1 Uchiyama, Inuyama, Aichi 484-0000

4. The Tokugawa and Nagoya City Art Museums

The Tokugawa and Nagoya City Art Museums | ozuma. / photo modified

Perhaps the best known of Nagoya's world-class art facilities is the excellent Tokugawa Art Museum. This excellent gallery is home to many treasures that once belonged to the city's wealthy Tokugawa family, including numerous fine paintings, items of porcelain, weapons, and documents.

Of particular note are the 43 parts of the famous Genji-monogatari-emaki, a picture scroll made by Fujiwara Takayoshi. Another must-see here is the Saigyo-monogatari-emaki, an ancient scroll depicting scenes from the life of the priest Saigyo from 1118-90.

Also worth seeing is the Nagoya City Art Museum (Nagoya-shi Bijutsukan). Opened in 1987, this museum is home to a permanent collection that includes the work of Surrealist artists from around the globe, including Sean Scully, Kansuke Yamamoto, and Alexander Calder, as well as temporary exhibits.

Finally, be sure to squeeze in a visit to the Nagoya Museum of Fine Arts (Nagoya Bosuton Bijutsukan). Sister museum to Boston's Museum of Fine Arts, it's notable for bringing items from the latter's collection of Impressionist and other artworks to Japan, and is also worth a visit for art lovers.

Address: 1017 Tokugawacho, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0023

5. The Port of Nagoya

The Port of Nagoya

In addition to being a bustling harbor, the Port of Nagoya in Ise Bay has become something of a tourist attraction in recent years. One of the most popular things to do, particularly for those traveling with kids, is visit the excellent Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium. Highlights include its large collection of native marine life, many exotic species of fish from across the Pacific, as well as a popular dolphin show.

Also worth checking out is the Fuji, a historic Antarctic-going vessel that now serves as an interesting museum dedicated to exploration of the South Pole. There's also a small amusement park (Sea Train Land) that's fun for the kids, along with a lovely wildflower garden.

Numerous fine walkways crisscross the port, connecting it to the main parts of the city, and are fun to explore.

Hot Tip: For a truly memorable experience, try to time your visit for the firework displays held on Marine Day and Christmas Eve.

Address: 1-3 Minatomachi, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi

6. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Elephants at the Higashiyama Zoo

Opened in 1937 and one of the oldest (and largest) such establishments in Japan, the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Higashiyama Dōshokubutsuen) makes for an excellent excursion that can easily occupy the best part of a day.

Part zoo, part amusement park, and part botanic garden, this popular tourist attraction offers plenty of fun for visitors of all ages. For animal lovers, the zoo area includes some 125 different species including gorillas, hippos, elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes, and koalas, along with tropical fish, numerous birds, and a reptile house.

Afterwards, be sure to wander the pathways through the lovely botanical gardens section with its collections of both native and non-native species. From here, you can also visit the 100-meter-tall Higashiyama Sky Tower with its observation platforms and restaurant offering great views over the city.

Address: 3-70, Higashiyama-motomachi, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-0804

7. Nagoya TV Tower and Hisaya Ōdori Park

Nagoya TV Tower and Hisaya Ōdori Park

Some of the best views over Nagoya are from the 180-meter-tall Nagoya TV Tower (Nagoya Terebi-tō). Built in 1954 in the heart of Hisaya Ōdori Park, the tower holds the record as the oldest electric wave tower in the country. It also boasts two observation decks: the Sky Balcony (outdoors) at 100 meters, and the Sky Deck (indoors) at 90 meters.

Looking not unlike the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, the site includes an informative exhibition about its history, as well as a restaurant.

Be sure to spend time also exploring the nearby Hisaya Ōdori Park. This pleasant two-kilometer-long green space in the heart of the city boasts many trees, fountains, and sculptures, and is regularly used as a venue for events and festivals. A highlight is the famous Nagoya Festival (Nagoya Matsuri) with its parades, traditional costumes, and music.

Address: 3 Chome-6-15 Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0003

8. Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums

Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums | Marufish / photo modified

Opened in 1994 to celebrate Nagoya's largest and most famous company, the excellent Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology (Sangyo-Gijutsu Kinenkan) makes for a fun day out.

Highlights of a visit to this science and technology museum, often simply referred to as "Toyota Techno," include numerous still-working exhibits of the huge looms and textile manufacturing processes that Toyota started out making in 1933.

You can also see interesting displays detailing its eventual transition into the world's largest automobile manufacturer, including numerous robots. Car buffs will also want to visit the huge Toyota Automobile Museum in nearby Nagakute, home to a superb collection of vintage cars made by Toyota and other leading manufacturers from around the globe.

Also well worth a visit is the SCMaglev and Railway Park (Rinia Tetsudōkan), a superb museum dedicated to the Central Japanese Railway Company featuring 39 trains, along with models and a fun simulator.

Address: 4 Chome-1-35 Noritakeshinmachi, Nishi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 451-0051

9. The Temples of Ōsu

The Temples of Ōsu

One of Nagoya's most popular districts is Ōsu, much visited for its many fine temples and shrines. One of the most important is the Buddhist temple of Ōsu Kannon (Kitanosan Shinpuku-ji Hōshō-in), built in the early 14th century in an area that turned out to be prone to flooding and moved to its current location around 1612.

Rebuilt in the 1970s, this magnificent building is home to the famous red paper lantern hanging from the ceiling of the main hall to which pilgrims attach their prayers.

After visiting some of Ōsu's other important temples, most notably Bansho-ji and Hongan-ji Betsuin, be sure to wander the surrounding historical streets with their many small shops offering traditional Japanese crafts and food.

Address: 2 Chome-21-47 Ōsu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011

10. Noritake Garden and Ceramics Factory Tour

Noritake Garden

Started in 1876 by two brothers looking to increase Japan's trade with western markets, the Noritake ceramics company has a long and storied past in the city of Nagoya. An interesting attraction for both collectors and the curious alike is Noritake Garden, a fascinating insight into the manufacturing process of this historic ceramics company housed on the original factory grounds.

Highlights include displays showcasing the company's history and antique porcelain, as well as demonstrations of the manufacturing process, hands-on workshops, and gift shops. The site's gardens are beautiful, and the grounds are also home to restaurants.

Address: 3 Chome-1-36 Noritakeshinmachi, Nishi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 451-8501

11. Legoland Japan

Legoland Japan | S.Brickman / photo modified

One of the newest major theme parks to have been built in the country for some decades, Legoland Japan in Nagoya only opened in 2017 and is already attracting well over two million visitors a year.

In addition to its numerous rides and attractions, the park includes a fascinating and extremely detailed miniature town, complete with accurate scale Lego reconstructions of recognizable landmarks from across Japan, including famous Nagoya Castle. A new hotel opened up at the site in 2018, and future plans include the addition of an aquarium.

Address: 2-2-1 Kinjoufutou, Minato-ku Nagoya-shi, Aichi 455-8605

Where to Stay in Nagoya for Sightseeing

Luxury Hotels:

In Nakamura near Josen-ji Temple, the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel is one of the most luxe hotels in town. There are a mix of rooms and suites, including family rooms if you're traveling with kids. Amenities here include a swimming pool, hot tub, workout room, and a spa. There is also a restaurant on-site, and room service is available. If you are driving, there is parking at the hotel.
Hilton Nagoya is another relatively luxe option. Located in the heart of Nagoya's business, shopping, and entertainment district, it runs a free shuttle service to nearby attractions like the Nagoya Castle. It is also just five minutes from the main train station. Rooms and suites are modern and comfortable with traditional Japanese style. There are great city views from large windows, and blackout curtains for when you want to sleep. Choose from multiple restaurants when it is time to dine. There is also a 49-foot indoor swimming pool, a 24-hour gym, and a sauna on-site.
There are not a lot of luxury hotels in Nagoya, but the brand new Hotel Keihan Nakoya is one option. The 4-star property is in the central Naka district and has contemporary western-style rooms with king beds and giant flat-screen TVs. These also have sitting areas and are quite large.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya is brand new and offers small but very clean and comfortable rooms in a central location in the Naka district. Suites have more space to move around. The decor is Western with Japanese-style elements. Expect comfy beds draped in thick white duvets, and pale wood minimalist furnishings. Amenities at this family-friendly hotel include a restaurant, hot tub, and free breakfast.
Located right above Nagoya main station, the JR Gate Tower Hotel is a contemporary hotel with great views from rooms on higher floors - corner rooms have windows on two sides and a bright and airy feel. There is a restaurant on-site that serves a morning breakfast buffet. There is also a coffee shop, hot tub, currency exchange, laundry service, and a fitness center on-site. Paid public parking is available nearby.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Taikodoriguchi is another good mid-range choice. In Nakamura, it is within walking distance from a number of attractions and restaurants. The Western-style rooms are tidy and comfortable and even feature small sitting areas. There is a restaurant with a breakfast buffet on-site, as well as a hot tub and paid private parking.

Budget Hotels:

Red Planet Nagoya Nishiki is a top choice at the higher end of the budget market. In the Naka district, it has modern rooms with creative artwork on walls, and amenities like desks, flat-screen TVs, and refrigerators. If you are traveling with older kids, there are interconnected rooms available. There is a restaurant on-site, 24-hour check-in, and massage treatments can be arranged.
Also in a convenient location, Nagoya B's is another good budget choice. The Western-style rooms feature sitting areas, fridges, and desks. On-site amenities include private paid parking, a hot tub, spa, and workout room. Breakfast is also included in the rate.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Nagoya

Walking Tour of Nagoya: Don't forget to pack a pair of comfy walking shoes, as Nagoya offers many great on-foot sightseeing experiences. A fun way to see the best the city has to offer is to join a Nagoya Private Walking Tour. These guided tours provide insights into the fabled Samurai culture, which shaped Nagoya's past, and take in the Sakae district, the Osu Kannon Temple and, of course, Nagoya Castle (all admissions included).
Experience Rural Japan: There's also plenty to see and do in the area surrounding Nagoya. A great option for those with a full day to spare is the Private Tour to Shirakawago, Hida Furukawa, and Takayama, an immersive 9-hour journey that provides an unforgettable slice of life in rural Japan. Highlights include a walk around the town of Hida Furukawa, as well as a chance to explore the old town of Takayama and visit Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture.
Nagoya at Night: Japan is an extremely safe country, so those interested in spending time exploring the best bits of Nagoya should certainly feel comfortable doing so after nightfall. Popular things to do at night in Nagoya include wandering the quaint old streets of the Endoji Shotengai Shopping Street and checking out the traditional crafts and artisan wares (as well as enjoying authentic Japanese food). Also fun is walking the perimeter of Nagoya castle, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

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