Nagoya is often overlooked by international visitors traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto, but Japan’s fourth-largest city has plenty to offer beyond its famous castle. A recent article in The Japan Times explored why the city and its surrounding region deserve more attention, highlighting their historical significance, distinctive cuisine, and long-standing craft traditions. Here are five reasons to add Nagoya to your Japan itinerary.
Discover Japan’s samurai history
Nagoya has strong connections to some of Japan’s most influential historical figures, including Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Nagoya Castle is an obvious starting point, while the Tokugawa Art Museum offers a closer look at the artefacts, armor, and cultural traditions associated with the Tokugawa family.
Eat your way through the area
Nagoya’s food culture has a character all of its own. Local specialties include miso katsu, a breaded pork cutlet served with rich red miso sauce, hitsumabushi, a dish of grilled eel and rice enjoyed in several ways, and tebasaki, peppery chicken wings. The city’s distinctive café culture is another highlight, with morning sets that often include breakfast alongside a drink.
Explore traditional Japanese crafts
The wider Aichi region is home to centuries-old craft traditions. Nearby Seto is renowned for its ceramics, while Arimatsu is known for its intricate shibori tie-dyed textiles. These traditions offer a chance to discover the skills behind everyday Japanese objects and find souvenirs with a genuine connection to the region.
Visit nearby places shaped by pivotal events
For history enthusiasts, the wider region offers sites beyond the usual castle circuit. For instance, in neighboring Gifu Prefecture, the Sekigahara battlefield marks the location of the decisive 1600 conflict that helped pave the way for the Tokugawa shogunate. Its museum and surrounding landscape provide a different perspective on Japan’s samurai past.
Experience a different side of Japan
Nagoya combines big-city attractions with access to smaller towns, regional food traditions, and historic sites. Visitors can explore its museums and shopping districts before discovering the crafts and landscapes of neighboring communities.
Nagoya may not have the international profile of Tokyo or Kyoto, but its history, food, and cultural heritage make it a destination worth exploring in its own right!
