Nagoya Castle (名古屋城) is the perfect place to visit if you fancy immersing yourself in Japan’s rich history and ancient culture. Located in Central Japan, it was the heart of one of the most important castle towns during the Edo period.
Nagoya Castle is Perfect for History Fans!
Nagoya Castle was one of the biggest castles in the country, and the town surrounding it flourished into Japan’s fourth largest city. It was built as the seat for the Owari Branch for the ruling Tokugawa family in the beginning of the Edo period.
The palace, Honmaru Goten, was recently restored and opened to the public in mid-2018. You can discover the captivating stories and details behind the artworks, and the history and culture of the samurai here.
Do take note that the main castle keep is currently closed as it will be torn down and rebuilt by 2022. It contained a modern museum displaying the castle’s history. You can still take a stroll around the surrounding area and marvel at the beauty of the antique structures.
What’s more, there’s a park within the vicinity that contains two circles of moats and impressive walls with towers. This spot is popular for flower viewing during the cherry blossom season.
- Opening hours: 9am - 4.30pm (closed from 29th December to 1st January)
- Admission fee: ¥500 for Adults, ¥100 for Senior Citizens and Free Entrance for Children; discounts are available for big groups
Be Captivated by The Rich History of Nagoya Castle
To fend off attacks from the direction of Osaka, Tokugawa Ieyasu urged for the construction of Nagoya Castle. Completed in 1612, the castle thrived, as the foremost of the Tokugawa family’s three lineages resided here.
In 1945, most of the buildings sadly perished during the air raids in the Second World War. This included the main and small keeps as well as the Honmaru Goten. Fortunately, however, most of the paintings on the sliding doors and walls in the said palace survived the fire and have been passed down as Important Cultural Assets.
It was recently reconstructed using traditional construction materials and techniques to stay true to the fine Shoin architecture. So, do check it out when you’re in Nagoya!
Spot information
- Spot name: Nagoya Castle
- Street address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi 460-0031, Aichi
- Access: About 8 minutes’ walk from Shiyakusho Station
The Westin Nagoya Castle
Look into staying at The Westin if you’d like to be somewhere close to Nagoya Castle. Just across from the historical attraction, this traditional hotel is conveniently located. With 195 rooms to choose from, you’ll have a nice view of the city.
Relax after a long day of sightseeing with their steam baths, beauty as well as massage services. Then savour some yummy Japanese, French or Cantonese food at their on-site restaurants. You can also make use of their indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.
Spot information
- Spot name: The Westin Nagoya Castle
- Street address: 3-19 Hinokuchi-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya-shi 451-0034, Aichi
- Access: About 6 minutes’ walk from Nagoyajo Bus Stop
Nagoya Castle Plaza Hotel
If you’re keen to stay somewhere that’s within walking distance of Nagoya Station, then consider Castle Plaza. This stylish hotel has a variety of rooms to choose from, whether you’re looking for something modern or traditionally styled with tatami, they have it.
You’ll also have a wide selection of cuisines to savour from Japanese to Chinese to even Indian at their on-site restaurants.
Spot information
- Spot name: Castle Plaza
- Street address: 4-3-25 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi 450-0002, Aichi
- Access: About 8 minutes’ walk from Nagoya Station
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