45+ Best Things to Do in Nagoya: Tips From a Local

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Nagoya, this former resident and proud Nagoyan has all the insider tips for you!

I lived in Nagoya and fell in love with the city.

Nagoya is often overlooked by visitors, but I think it’s one of Japan’s most underrated cities.

It offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and attractions of a city without Tokyo’s crowds.

Whether you’re a foodie, a solo traveler seeking nightlife, or a family looking for kid-friendly activities, Nagoya has something for everyone.

I’ve put together my top Nagoya recommendations so you can save time researching and more time enjoying the city.

So if you’re ready to get my list of the top things to see, do, eat, and experience in my favorite Japanese city– 行きましょう! (ikimashou= Let’s go!)

Best Things to Do in Nagoya

There are so many unique things to do in Nagoya city that you could easily spend a week here.

Whether you’re only spending a day here or staying in Nagoya while teaching English in Japan, you’ll be able to find something for you in this list.

1. Nagoya Station/Meieki

Nagoya Station is the perfect starting point for your adventure in the city.

Start with the iconic Twin Central Towers, 50 stories high and home to the Takashimaya department store with its high-end boutiques.

Inside the towers, you’ll find shopping and dining options, while below the station lies a busy network of underground shops, restaurants, and subway lines.

To the west is Bic Camera, a multi-story haven for electronics fans.

Head east to see the striking Spiral Tower, the upscale Midland Square, and the lively Sakae district.

With over 1 million people passing through daily, Nagoya Station is more than a transportation hub—it’s a destination.

2. Nagoya Castle

A visit to Nagoya would be incomplete without seeing Nagoya Castle (Nagoya-jo), a symbol of the city’s rich samurai history.

Originally built in the early 1600s under Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa Shogunate, the castle has been reconstructed to resemble its former glory.

Don’t miss the Honmaru Palace inside the grounds, with its intricate wood carvings and gold-leaf-coated screens.

The castle park, Meijo Park, is especially magical during Sakura season in spring.

3. Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine (Atsuta-jingu), a sacred Shinto site, has been venerated for centuries, holding deep historical and spiritual significance.

This 1,900-year-old shrine is home to one of Japan’s three imperial regalia, the sacred sword Kusanagi no Tsurugi (not on public display.)

The surrounding forest offers a peaceful break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

4. Nagoya TV Tower

The Chubu Electric MIRAI TOWER is Japan’s oldest TV tower and a historic landmark.

After a 2020 renovation, this Eiffel Tower-inspired structure lights up Nagoya’s Sakae district, adding to its vibrant nightlife.

Visitors can enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck or even stay overnight at The Tower Hotel, located inside the tower.

Fun Fact: The Nagoya TV Tower was featured in both version of Mothra vs Godzilla when Godzilla pulls it down.

Sakae District: Shopping & Entertainment

Sakae is the vibrant heart of Nagoya, offering an exciting mix of shopping, entertainment, nightlife, and attractions.

Best of all, everything is within walking distance, making it easy to explore.

Whether you’re browsing stores, enjoying the lively atmosphere, or hopping between nightlife spots, you could easily spend an entire day immersed in all that Sakae has to offer.

5. Sky Boat Ferris Wheel

Situated on the side of the Sunshine Sakae building, this Ferris wheel is far from ordinary—it’s not every day you see one attached to a building!

Sunshine Sakae is a vibrant entertainment and shopping complex, and its standout feature is a Ferris wheel with a 138-foot (42-meter) diameter.

The ride consists of 28 glass-enclosed pods, offering a unique perspective of the city as it completes a full rotation in just 15 minutes.

A fun and memorable way to take in the views!

6. Otsu Street

Otsu Street (Otsu-dori) runs parallel to Nagoya’s central Hisaya Odori Park— another must-visit destination in the city.

As the main shopping street, Otsu-dori is lined with a mix of large shopping complexes, department stores, and high-end luxury boutiques, offering something for every shopper.

💡 TIP: If you’re in need of winter clothes in Japan and find Asian sizing a challenge, you’ll also find international stores like Zara along Otsu-dori, making it easy to shop for Western-sized clothing.

7. Oasis 21

Oasis 21 is another iconic Nagoya attraction, famous for its striking design and versatility.

Its highlight is the oval-shaped glass roof, “The Spaceship Aqua,” with water flowing across its surface.

Visitors can take a midair stroll along the illuminated pathway, 46 feet (14 meters) above ground—a magical experience, especially at night.

The complex also includes the “Field of Green,” a peaceful area with cherry and maple trees offering stunning seasonal views.

Below, you’ll find Nagoya’s main bus terminal, various shops, and the Galaxy Platform, which hosts events like a winter ice skating rink.

8. Don Quijote Sakae

Don Quijote, or Donki, is one of Japan’s most popular discount stores.

This chain is known for selling everything from souvenirs to cosmetics to gadgets and more in a tower of endless floors.

They’re worth a visit, even if you’re not planning to make a purchase, as they’ve become a quintessential part of the Japan experience.

Open 24/7, they offer a convenient spot to warm up during winter, cool down in summer, or kill time if you’ve missed the last train and find yourself out all night.

9. Interesting Cafes

Japan is home to some of the most interesting cafes around.

Here are some of Nagoya’s most unique cafes to check out:

• PEANUTS Cafe Nagoya
• Lamp Light Books Cafe Nagoya
• Cat Cafe MOCHA
• Samoyed Cafe (サモエドカフェアル名古屋栄店)
• Hedgehog themed cafe Harry Wood

Osu District: Vintage Shops & Souvenirs

Want to experience a mix of traditional and trendy?

The Osu Shopping District is a bustling area filled with everything from temples and second-hand kimono shops to quirky snack stands and tech gadget stores.

It’s the perfect spot to get lost exploring narrow streets filled with so much character.

10. Osu Kannon Buddhist Temple

Osu Kannon Buddhist Temple is a calm and historic place where you can experience a mix of history and spirituality.

The temple features detailed architecture, peaceful gardens, and a space to honor Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.

11. Osu Shopping Street

Explore over 1,200 stores and restaurants offering a delightful mix of vintage treasures, unique handcrafted goods, and charming souvenirs.

From one-of-a-kind keepsakes to locally made artisan products, there’s something for everyone to discover in this vibrant shopping and dining destination.

12. Second-Hand Kimono Shops

If you’ve got your heart set on buying a kimono in Japan, Osu is a great place to do so.

Secondhand kimono stores like Komehyo offer a beautiful selection of pre-owned kimono in great condition.

Traditional kimono are expensive and often reserved for special occasions.

Sometimes they’ll only be worn once or twice over several years.

So buying a secondhand kimono in excellent condition is a smart, budget-friendly choice, especially if you’re picking one up just as a souvenir.

Best Nagoya Views

If you love city skylines and cityscapes, don’t miss the opportunity to see Nagoya from the sky!

13. Sky Promenade

Experience stunning views from open-air, 360-degree observation decks on the tallest building in the Chubu region (Central Japan).

Located on floors 42-46 of Midland Square, you’ll the the best view of Nagoya there is.

It’s also open in the evenings, making it the perfect spot to catch a city sunset or end a romantic date on Valentine’s Day in Japan.

14. JR Central Towers

For a free bird’s eye view of the city, head up the JR Central Towers.

The 12th and 13th floors house a selection of cafes and restaurants, while the 15th floor features a stunning skybridge that connects the towers.

These mid-level floors not only offer incredible views but are also often less crowded, making them a perfect spot to unwind.

At the very top, you’ll find one of my favorite hidden gems to share with friends—Cafe Du Ciel.

This boutique cafe boasts breathtaking views of Nagoya’s skyline.

I’ve sampled nearly everything on their menu, from refreshing drinks and savory small bites to indulgent cakes and parfaits.

While it’s slightly more expensive than street-level cafes, the unparalleled view makes it well worth the splurge.

Nagoya Parks & Gardens

Nagoya is home to an abundance of parks, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling city.

Many are conveniently accessible by train or subway, making them easy to visit.

Parks in Japan are vibrant gathering spots throughout the year, hosting winter and summer festivals, cherry blossom viewings in spring, and showcasing the stunning colors of autumn leaves in the fall.

15. Tsuruma Park

Tsuruma Park (Tsuruma-koen) is one of my favorite spots in Nagoya, as it reminds me of Golden Gate Park back home in San Francisco.

This expansive park is thoughtfully divided into sections, each showcasing unique features, statues, and designs, making it a relaxing place to explore and unwind.

16. Hisaya Odori Park

Hisaya Odori Park (Hisaya Odori-koen) is Nagoya’s version of New York City’s Central Park.

This vibrant green space stretches over a mile from north to south, running through the heart of Nagoya in Sakae, the city’s lively downtown district.

Lining both sides of the park are an array of shops and cafes, creating the perfect blend of nature and urban life.

Beneath the park lies a shopping mall, somewhat confusingly named Central Park, offering yet another layer of convenience and vibrancy.

Hisaya Odori Park is also home to two of Nagoya’s most iconic landmarks: the TV Tower, officially named the Chubu Electric Power Mirai Tower, and the futuristic Oasis 21 complex.

17. Meijo Park

Meijo Park (Meijo-koen), located near Nagoya Castle, is a peaceful spot in the city.

With seasonal flowers and open spaces, it’s a great place for a picnic or a jog.

It’s also a popular gathering spot for hanami if you visit Japan during cherry blossom season.

18. Noritake Garden

Noritake Garden is a unique spot in Nagoya that combines history, art, and nature.

Located on the grounds of the historic Noritake company, visitors can explore galleries, shops, and a beautiful garden while learning about the area’s rich ceramic heritage.

You can even try decorating your own plate or mug in a workshop.

Nagoya Museums

If you’re a history buff or just love learning, Nagoya’s museums are top-notch.

19. Toyota Commemorative Museum

The Toyota Commemorative Museum is a must-visit for any car enthusiast.

This museum traces the history of Japan’s most famous car company and showcases their impressive collection of vintage cars and technology.

With interactive exhibits and informative displays, visitors can learn about the evolution of the automobile industry in Japan.

Note: If you go with a car buff, plan on being here for at least a few hours.

My father, who grew up in Japan and now owns a Japanese car business in the US, was like a kid at Disneyland when I took him here!

20. Tokugawa Art Museum

The Tokugawa Art Museum houses over 12,000 artifacts from the Edo period, including samurai swords, armor, Noh masks, and paintings.

It’s a unique look into Japan’s feudal past and perfect for those interested in history or art.

Visitors can also see the original castle gates and partake in a traditional tea ceremony in the autumn.

21. Nagoya City Science Museum

The Nagoya City Science Museum is an exciting destination for all ages.

From its iconic globe-shaped planetarium to hands-on activities and exhibits, this museum focuses on making science fun and accessible for everyone.

It also features one of the world’s largest domed screens, providing an immersive experience.

22. SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

All aboard, train enthusiasts!

The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is railway museum of Central Japan Railways (JR Central), showcasing the evolution of high-speed rail transportation in Japan.

Across seven exhibits, visitors can see an array of trains from steam locomotives to the newest magnetic levitation (maglev) trains.

There’s also a fun simulator where you can experience what it’s like to drive a shinkansen (bullet train).

23. Meiji-Mura (Meiji Village Museum)

If Ted Mosby visited Nagoya, he’d come here.

Nestled in the outskirts of Nagoya, Meiji-Mura (Meiji Village) is an open-air theme park-esque museum that showcases over 60 historic buildings from the Meiji era (1868-1912) .

There’s even a replica of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel.

Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about Japan’s modernization during this period while feeling like they’ve been transported back in time.

24. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium & Surrounding Area

The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium has the largest tank capacity and total area in Japan.

If you’re not a fan of aquariums, the Nagoya Port area is home to several notable museums and sights to check out, including:

• Nagoya Port Building Observatory
• The Maritime Museum
• Fuji Antarctic Museum and Icebreaker (see below)
• Sea Train Land Amusement Park (ft. Ferris Wheel)

The port area, while industrial, is still quite beautiful in my opinion and somewhere I enjoyed taking late afternoon walks when I wanted to get away from the city.

25. Fuji Antarctic Museum and Icebreaker

As someone who worked in Antarctica and was the first woman of Japanese descent to winterover at the South Pole Station, I can’t not include this Antarctic Museum!

The Fuji was Japan’s first icebreaker that led explorations to Antarctica for 18 years.

The floating museum is docked at Nagoya Port and is on display for visitors to come aboard and tour the interior.

If you’ve wondered about life on the Ice (aka Antarctica, for those of us who work there) what it’s like to cruise to Antarctica or get a job in Antarctica, experiencing the Fuji is a good place to start!

26. Nagoya City Art Museum

The Nagoya City Art Museum is a destination worth exploring, whether you choose to step inside or simply admire it from the outside.

Designed by renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa, the building itself is a masterpiece of modern design.

Inside, visitors can discover an eclectic collection of art that spans both Japanese and international works, featuring pieces by surrealist Kansuke Yamamoto, a Nagoya native, and celebrated painter and printmaker Marc Chagall.

27. Aichi Museum of Flight

The Aichi Museum of Flight is located by Nagoya Airport in Aichi Prefecture, the heart of Japan’s advanced aerospace manufacturing industry.

If you’re traveling to Nagoya with any aviation geeks, you’ll want to add this stop to your itinerary.

The museum showcases an impressive collection of retired civil and military aircraft, including propeller planes, jets, and helicopters.

Nagoya Food

Nagoya is home to some of the country’s tastiest Japanese food (and I’ve tried them all!)

Here are the local specialties to feast on while you’re here.

28. Miso Katsu

One of the foods that Nagoya is famous for is red miso (aka miso)– a paste made from fermented soybeans.

Miso comes in three main varieties, with red miso being the darkest and most flavorful.

One of the best ways to experience Nagoya’s iconic red miso sauce is through miso katsu.

This local twist on the classic Japanese dish, tonkatsu—crispy, deep-fried pork cutlets—elevates the flavor by coating the cutlets in a rich, savory red miso sauce.

Head to any one of the several Yabaton restaurants around Nagoya to try this out.

29. Hitsumabushi

Hitsumabushi is grilled eel served over rice with three ways to enjoy it.

Locals will tell you to divide your eel and rice bowl into quarters, and then try them in the following order:

• Plain: Just eel and rice
• With condiments: Green onions, wasabi, and seaweed
• With broth: Pour the dashi (broth) over the rice
• Dealer’s choice: Your preferred way

Hitsumabushi is my absolute favorite Nagoyan specialty, and I never miss the chance to take visiting friends and family to Horaiken to experience it.

30. Tebasaki

Tebasaki are Nagoyan deep-fried chicken wingtips.

The crispy, golden skin is perfectly coated in a flavorful garlic and soy glaze, balancing sweet and savory notes.

Often served in Japanese izakayas, these are a beloved side dish or snack, perfect for pairing with a drink.

Head to Tebasaki Mutsumi for a taste.

31. Ogura Toast

Ogura toast is a Nagoya breakfast specialty.

It consists of a thick slice of toasted bread topped with ogura, a sweet red bean paste.

The rise of ogura toast also brought with it the beloved Nagoya morning service, often simply called “morning service.”

This tradition began with coffee shops in Nagoya offering a complimentary slice of bread and a boiled egg with every coffee or tea ordered in the morning.

Over time, it has become a cherished part of the local culture, celebrated in countless cafes across the region.

For an authentic experience, visit one of the many Komeda Coffee locations, a renowned national coffee chain originating from Nagoya.

Things to Do in Nagoya at Night

Sakae is the main hub for nightlife in Nagoya.

You could easily stay out all night wandering from bars and clubs to 24-hour cafes of all kinds.

Remember, trains and subways stop running around 12-1 am.

If you plan on enjoying Sakae at night and are worried about missing the last train, book a place in Sakae so that you can easily walk to your accommodation.

There are also plenty of late-night options if you end up stranded, like capsule hotels and internet cafes.

32. ORCA Nagoya

Orca Nagoya is a dance and nightclub in Sakae known for its energetic and lively atmosphere, with a variety of music genres played by top DJs.

The club also offers themed nights, special events, and VIP services for those looking to elevate their night-out experience.

33. C.STAND Nagoya Sakae

If nightclubs aren’t your thing, then C.STAND might be more your vibe.

C.STAND Nagoya Sakae is a popular hookah bar with cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring.

The bar offers a wide selection of shisha flavors and affordable drinks, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

34. Shooters Bar & Grill

Shooters is a popular bar among foreigners, especially those wanting to catch major sporting events from back home.

It’s where my American friends and I gathered every year to watch the Super Bowl.

The bar is perfect for anyone feeling homesick or looking to connect with expats and immigrants while enjoying a game.

However, if you’re just visiting or aren’t particularly interested in sports, I’d recommend exploring other local bars in Sakae.

The area is full of lively spots that offer a more authentic Japanese experience.

Things to Do in Nagoya in Winter

While it does snow in Nagoya occasionally, it’s nothing drastic that will stop you from enjoying the city.

Here are my top things to do in Nagoya in the winter:

35. Winter Illuminations

Winter illuminations are my favorite part of winters in Japan.

Every city goes all out stringing lights along streets, trees, parks– you name it.

Department stores also get festive with many putting up holiday decorations and Christmas trees.

Popular places in Nagoya to check out winter illuminations include:

• Nagoya Station/Meieki
• Midland Square
• Hisaya Odori Park

For a true winter wonderland experience, head to an illumination event, which is where fields and parks are turned into nighttime winter attractions with a multitude of lit up pathways, structures, tunnels, and displays.

The most popular one close to Nagoya is Nabana no Sato, one of the biggest winter illumination displays in Japan.

I always take my visitors here as it’s such a cool and unique experience that only happens in the winter.

36. Christmas and Winter Festivals

Winter illuminations in Japan go hand in hand with festive Christmas and winter celebrations.

One thing to note: Japan loves Christmas– maybe even more so than Western countries– though not for religious reasons.

Instead, it’s a love for Western culture and the joy of celebration itself.

One unique tradition has even emerged: on Christmas, the quintessential Japanese experience involves indulging in KFC chicken and a “Christmas cake” (spoiler: it’s just regular cake but jazzed up).

But I digress.

In Japan’s major cities, you’ll find Christmas markets and festivals reminiscent of those in Europe, albeit on a smaller scale.

If you’re spending the holiday season in Nagoya, be sure to visit Hisaya Odori Park, where the winter market offers mulled wine and a warm dose of holiday cheer.

37. Onsen

When it’s cold out, there’s nothing like warming up in an onsen, or hot spring.

Japan has so many types of onsen to enjoy and there’s no shortage in Nagoya.

If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and soak your tired muscles, check out these local favorites:

• Tenku Spa Hills Ryusenjinoyu Nagoya Moriyama
• Urban Quar Spa & Living
• Gero Onsen

Things to Do in Nagoya with Kids

Nagoya is a family-friendly destination with lots of things to do with kids.

Beyond the museums and parks mentioned earlier, Nagoya is also home to several renowned amusement parks that attract visitors from far and wide, with many traveling to the city specifically to experience these attractions.

38. Ghibli Park

Ghibli Park is an enchanting destination inspired by the beloved Studio Ghibli films.

Fans of Hayao Miyazaki and his iconic storytelling can fully immerse themselves in the magic across five beautifully themed areas.

The park brings to life unforgettable moments and settings from Studio Ghibli classics like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, offering a unique blend of attractions and experiences that celebrate the studio’s timeless creations.

39. Legoland Japan

Legoland Japan is for all ages, whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart.

This theme park features interactive rides, hands-on building activities, and impressive displays made out of LEGO bricks.

With over 40 different attractions, Legoland Japan is a great place to let your kids’ imaginations run wild while also experiencing the fun and excitement of LEGOs.

40. Nagashima Spa Land

An amusement park and a spa rolled into one?

Yes, you read that right!

Nagashima Spa Land is a popular amusement park known for its thrilling roller coasters and water rides.

But it’s not just about the adrenaline rush, the park also has a spa that offers relaxing hot spring baths and foot baths.

It’s the perfect place to unwind after a fun-filled day of riding roller coasters.

Things to Do Around Nagoya

Nagoya also makes a fantastic base for day trips.

It’s a great hub if you’re here as a digital nomad or working another travel job that doesn’t require experience.

With so many notable places near Nagoya, there’s no reason to stay for just one day!

41. Inuyama Castle

Inuyama Castle is one of Japan’s oldest castles and a designated National Treasure.

Located just outside of Nagoya, this castle offers stunning views of the Kiso River and surrounding countryside.

42. Mt. Kinka

If your group includes outdoorsy people, head to Mt. Kinka (Kinka-zan), a popular hiking spot located just outside of Nagoya in Gifu.

Visitors can take a ropeway to the top, where they can enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

For more adventurous hikers, there is also a trail that leads up to the summit.

This scenic hike takes approximately 1-2 hours and offers beautiful views along the way.

Whether you choose to take the ropeway or hike up Mt. Kinka, it’s a nice break from the city worth adding to your Nagoya itinerary if you’ve got the time.

43. Takeshima (Gamagori)

Takeshima is my favorite hidden gem that I discovered when I was looking for a quiet beach escape from Nagoya.

If you’re like me and need somewhere non-touristy to de-stress from city life (and teaching English in Japan), Takeshima provides just that.

Just an hour by train from the city, Takeshima is a small island accessible via a pedestrian bridge off the coast of Gamagori, a charming coastal town.

Visitors can stroll along a scenic path that circles Takeshima, offering lush greenery, serene mini beach coves, a tranquil shrine, and intriguing stone statues along the way.

💡 TIP: Gamagori is the perfect place to watch the sunset or catch fireworks during summer festivals!

44. Mt. Gozaisho

Mt. Gozaisho, located just an hour from Nagoya, is a beloved winter destination known for its breathtaking scenery and unique natural features.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Biwa, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

The resort offers a variety of activities, including a ropeway ride, a sledding hill, and a ski area, catering to both adventure seekers and families alike.

45. Sakushima “Island of Art”

Sakushima is a picturesque island with retro laid-back vibes off the coast of Nagoya known for its blend of natural beauty and artistic allure.

The island is dotted with both natural and manmade art, offering opportunities for unique Instagram photo opportunities to pair with those Japan captions.

Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the island, explore the small fishing village, or relax on one of the secluded beaches.

46. Takayama

Travel back in time at Takayama, a charming historic town in Japan’s mountainous Hida region.

Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved old town, lined with traditional wooden houses and shops, and try local delicacies like Hida beef.

The surrounding mountains offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.

47. Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional farmhouses, which have unique thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during winter when there’s snow, Shirakawa-go turns into a winter wonderland straight out of Studio Ghibli.

Visitors can experience the rural lifestyle of Japan’s past and witness stunning views of the village nestled among the surrounding mountains.

The annual winter light-up event adds an extra touch of magic to this already enchanting destination.

FAQ: Nagoya Tourist Attractions

What is Nagoya best known for?

Nagoya is most known for some of its unique buildings as well as specialty food.

Buildings:

• Twin JR Central Towers
• Spiral Tower
• Nagoya Castle
• Oasis 21
• TV Tower

Food & Drink:

• Red Miso
• Hitsumabushi
• Tebasaki
• Ogura Toast/ Nagoya Morning Service
• Komeda Coffee

Is it worth visiting Nagoya, Japan?

As someone who lived in Nagoya, I do think it’s worth a visit.

It’s an underrated city often looked over for more historic cities like Kyoto or modern cities like Tokyo, but Nagoya itself has a good mix of both without the overcrowdedness.

There’s something for everyone: local food, nightlife, shopping, nature, history, art, culture, and so much more.

Is one day in Nagoya enough?

If you plan on exploring Nagoya’s biggest spots in the city, one day is enough to see the main attractions.

If you’re planning to use Nagoya as a base for visiting nearby attractions like amusement parks or historic towns such as Takayama and Shirakawa-go, consider adding an extra day to your itinerary.

This will give you enough time to fully experience the charm and sights of Nagoya itself.

How long is the train from Tokyo to Nagoya?

The shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagoya takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

What to do in Nagoya for a day

If you only have one day in Nagoya, here’s my recommended itinerary:

🏙 Morning: Nagoya Station (JR Central Towers and Midland Square)

🌇 Afternoon: Nagoya Castle and Meijo Park

🌃 Evening: Sakae (Oasis 21 and Hisaya Odori Park)

Final Thoughts: Things to See in Nagoya

I loved living in Nagoya.

This city offers the convenience of a large city without feeling overcrowded.

It’s also an ideal base for exploring nature getaways and boasts a diverse range of activities to suit everyone—from solo travelers on the move to families with young children seeking memorable experiences.

I hope these recommendations give you a full sense of what the city has to offer, especially as you’ll now get to explore it with local tips in hand!

Read More of My Best Japan Travel Tips

• Does It Snow in Nagoya? When & What to Expect in Winter
• Top 50 Most Popular Japanese Food to Try in Japan
• 250+ Best Japan Captions for Instagram
• Essential Japan Winter Clothes: Your Ultimate Packing Guide
• How I Got Paid to Live in Japan: My Experience Teaching ESL in Japan
• Is It Worth Going to Japan in Cherry Blossom Season? Tips from a Local

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