5 Top Attractions in Nagoya for Your Next Adventure

Nagoya, one of Japan’s busiest ports and the fourth-largest city, lies in the picturesque Aichi region. Known as Japan’s industrial and transportation hub, it is home to leading automotive giants like Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi, as well as traditional industries such as ceramics and textiles. However, what truly sets Nagoya apart is its unique blend of history and innovation, highlighted by the iconic Nagoya Castle, a legacy of the Old Tokugawa dynasty.

Although much of the city was destroyed during World War II, Nagoya has risen to become a bustling industrial center while preserving its cultural treasures. From historic landmarks to cutting-edge industries, this city offers a dynamic blend of experiences for every traveler.

Stay at Travelodge Nagoya Sakae, conveniently located in the heart of the city, and explore the top attractions in Nagoya with ease. Whether it’s castles, cars, or culinary delights, Nagoya promises a journey full of discovery and charm!

Nagoya-kasteel  

Nagoya-kasteel is a historic gem and one of the top attractions in Nagoya. Built during the Edo period by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, it was once among Japan’s largest and most impressive castles. Over time, the surrounding castle town flourished, growing into what is now Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city.

The castle is famous for its unique design, featuring two iconic golden shachihoko, fish-like statues, perched on its rooftop. Although much of the castle was destroyed during World War II, extensive reconstruction efforts continue to restore it to its original glory using traditional materials and techniques.

Nagoya-kasteel holds the distinction of being Japan’s first designated National Treasure and remains a National Historic Site. The palace is also a prime example of Japanese Shoin architecture, celebrated for its elegance and attention to detail. Visiting Nagoya Castle is like stepping into a piece of Japanese history, making it a must-visit spot for travelers exploring Nagoya.

Legoland  

Opened in April 2017, LEGOLAND Japan is a must-visit for families exploring Nagoya. Designed for kids aged two to twelve, this outdoor theme park is packed with fun and interactive activities that bring imagination to life.

The park boasts over 17 million LEGO blocks and 10,000 LEGO models, offering more than 40 rides, attractions, and shows spread across eight themed areas. Many of the rides are perfect for small children, making it an ideal day out for the whole family.

LEGOLAND Japan is also home to SEA LIFE Nagoya, an interactive aquarium where visitors can see, touch, and learn about the wonders of the ocean. For LEGO enthusiasts and families alike, this theme park offers a magical experience filled with creativity and adventure!

Tokugawa-kunstmusea  

De Tokugawa Art Museum, established in 1935, is home to over 10,000 artifacts. The museum showcases the legacies of Ieyasu Tokugawa and the daimyō family treasures passed down through generations of the Lords of Owari, starting with Ieyasu’s ninth son, Yoshinao Tokugawa.

Among the collection are 9 National Treasures, including the Tale of Genji Illustrated Scrolls, Japan’s oldest dynastic novel, created in the late 10th century by Murasaki Shikibu. The museum also houses 59 items designated as Important Cultural Properties, such as Japanese swords, armors, kimonos, and tea utensils. Note that photography is not permitted for many of these priceless exhibits.

Adjacent to the museum is Tokugawa-en, a stunning historical Japanese landscape garden with a large central pond. Although destroyed during the war, the garden was beautifully restored and reopened in 2004, offering a serene complement to the museum visit. Together, the Tokugawa Art Museum and Tokugawa-en provide a rich cultural and historical experience in Nagoya.

Toyota Herdenkingsmuseum voor Industrie en Technologie  

De Toyota Herdenkingsmuseum voor Industrie en Technologie showcases the journey of the Toyota Group, a company that started as a textile manufacturer and grew into a global leader in automobile innovation.

This museum offers something for everyone. Kids will love Technoland, an interactive space filled with educational tools and displays that make learning fun. For adults and technology enthusiasts, the museum provides engaging demonstrations, including how steering and suspension systems work, offering a deeper understanding of automotive engineering.

Celebrating both history and innovation, this museum is a must-visit for anyone curious about Japan’s industrial and technological evolution.

Stedelijk Wetenschapsmuseum van Nagoya    

Home to the world’s largest planetarium, the Stedelijk Wetenschapsmuseum van Nagoya offers a captivating experience with its focus on modern technology, life sciences, and general science. The museum features a variety of hands-on permanent and temporary exhibitions, making it a perfect destination for curious minds of all ages.

Its striking silver spherical dome, with a diameter of 35 meters, makes the building unmistakable even from a distance. This eco-friendly facility uses photovoltaic technology to generate power and boasts an earthquake-proof design for added safety.

Don’t miss the museum’s highlights, including the stunningly realistic starry night sky in the planetarium, a 30°C room that simulates the aurora borealis, and a nine-meter-tall artificial tornado. The Stedelijk Wetenschapsmuseum van Nagoya is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the wonders of science and technology.

Ontdek het beste van Nagoya met het beste aanbod van Travelodge Hotels Asia op https://www.travelodgehotels.asia/travelodge-nagoya-sakae/