1. Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is currently under restoration, so we cannot go inside. However, we will explore the exterior and walk around the stone walls.
1 hour
2. Nagoya Castle Hommarugoten
Beautiful Fusuma Paintings: Inside the Honmaru Palace, there are luxurious sliding door paintings (fusuma-e) made with gold leaf. These paintings represent the authority of the lords who lived in Nagoya Castle, showcasing detailed craftsmanship.
Historical Architecture: The Honmaru Palace showcases traditional Japanese architectural styles, where you can admire the beauty of wooden structures and the intricate details in the decorations.
Exhibits Recreating Life in the Past: Each room features displays that recreate the life of the feudal lords during the Sengoku and Edo periods, offering a glimpse into the atmosphere of rooms used by lords and shoguns.
The Grand Hall and Shoin-zukuri Style: One of the highlights is the Grand Hall, where important meetings and ceremonies were held. The palace also features the shoin-zukuri style, a classic example of traditional Japanese architecture.
1 hour
3. Shikemichi
Traditional Streets:
Shikemichi features rows of traditional warehouses and wooden houses dating back to the Edo period. These buildings were once used by merchants as stores and warehouses, allowing visitors to enjoy the historic townscape.
White-Walled Storehouses:
Many of the buildings here are white-walled storehouses. These were constructed with thick earthen walls to protect goods from fires, showcasing Edo-period fire prevention methods.
Traditional Shops and Cafés:
Some of the old storehouses and houses have been renovated into modern cafés, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can enjoy local food and buy souvenirs while experiencing the atmosphere of old Nagoya.
Quiet Walking Paths:
Despite being a tourist destination, Shikemichi maintains a quiet and peaceful ambiance. Walking through its historic streets allows you to enjoy a slow-paced journey through the scenery of old Japan.
1 hour 30 minutes
4. Tokugawa Art Museum
At the Tokugawa Art Museum, visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of the Edo period and the history of the Tokugawa family. The museum's collection includes personal belongings of Tokugawa Ieyasu, as well as samurai armor, swords, and weaponry. Inside the museum, you will also find a wide array of calligraphy, paintings, tea ceremony utensils, and Noh theater artifacts, allowing you to experience the artistic culture of the Edo period.
One of the highlights is the display of luxurious items that symbolize the prosperity of the Tokugawa family, many of which are designated as important cultural properties. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the opulence and power of the Tokugawa shogunate.
The museum's beautiful garden is another attraction, where visitors can enjoy both history and nature in harmony. It serves as a peaceful retreat and complements the cultural experience of exploring the treasures within the museum.
1 hour 30 minutes
5. Osu Shopping Street
Temple Visit: Osu Kannon is an ancient Buddhist temple in Nagoya where you can visit its beautiful main hall and historical buildings. The statue of Kannon housed in the main hall is one of the main attractions.
Exploring the Surroundings: The area around Osu Kannon features an old shopping street where you can experience traditional Japanese ambiance. It's a great place to stroll around, shop for souvenirs, and sample local foods.
Participating in Annual Events: Osu Kannon hosts various annual events and festivals, and depending on the time of year, you might have the opportunity to witness these lively celebrations. The New Year's visit (Hatsumode) and major festivals are especially vibrant and worth seeing.
Dining and Shopping: There are numerous restaurants and shops around Osu Kannon, where you can enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine and snacks while shopping.
45 minutes