Reviews, Local food , Transportation Information, and Map Information of Nagoya Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Chubu Centrair International Airport

Historic landmark

1.Basic Information

Nagoya City in Aichi Prefecture is a place associated with Oda Nobunaga, who achieved the unification of Japan. Historical castles such as Nagoya Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Okazaki Castle are preserved, and it’s also possible to easily explore the remote islands by ferry from the port, making it a city where you can enjoy not only history but also nature.

Nagoya Castle (Nagoyajyo)

Constructed in 1612, Nagoya Castle was rebuilt in 1959 after being destroyed during World War II. The faithfully restored wall paintings from 400 years ago can be found inside this symbolic structure of Nagoya. Especially notable are the golden “Shachihoko” statues adorning the castle’s roof, which are considered legendary creatures and protective deities of the building.

Nagoya Castle
Golden killer whale


Inuyama Castle (Inuyamajyo)

Built in 1537 by Oda Nobunaga’s uncle, Inuyama Castle is a historically significant fortress contested over by Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu. It stands as one of the few wooden castles that survived the wartime, designated as a national treasure. Overlooking the Kiso River, it offers a breathtaking view. The surrounding area boasts old townscapes and tourist facilities. The local “Inuyama Festival” is also registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Inuyama Castle


Okazaki Castle (Okazakijyo)

Known as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Okazaki Castle is surrounded by a park filled with beautiful cherry blossoms and historical sites related to Ieyasu.

Okazaki Castle


Himakajima Island (Himakajima)

A short distance from Nagoya and accessible from the Chita Peninsula, Himakajima Island is renowned for its blowfish and octopus delicacies, even sporting an octopus monument. Activities include swimming, interacting with dolphins, and fishing. “Heidi’s Swing” is also a popular attraction.

Himakajima


Shinojima Island (Shinosima)

About a 30-minute ferry ride from the Chita Peninsula, Shinojima is often referred to as the “Matsushima of the Tokai region” due to its stunning views. The island is famous for its sunset scenes, delicacies like baby sardines “Shirasu” and premium blowfish.

Shinojima


Sakushima Island (Sakushima)

A tranquil island without any traffic lights or convenience stores, Sakushima offers an escape from urban hustle. Since 1996, the island has been notable for its art projects, and it’s also known as “Cat Island.” It has been chosen as a filming location for movies.

Sakushima


Chubu Centrair International Airport

Located on an artificial island in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, this 24-hour operational international airport, known as “Centrair,” is about 35 km from Nagoya City. It opened in 2005 and plays a crucial role alongside major Japanese international airports like Tokyo’s Haneda and Narita, and Osaka’s Kansai International Airport.

Chubu Centrair International Airport


2.Reviews

Kinshachi Yokocho

Opened in 2018 near Nagoya Castle, “Kinshachi Yokocho” is a large dining complex that offers both traditional Nagoya local dishes and modern culinary delights. It comprises two areas and also provides entry to Nagoya Castle.

KinshachiYokocho


3.Local Food

Introduction to Warm Meat Dishes
Japanese meat dishes have various backgrounds. There are "tonkatsu" influenced by Western cuisine, "braised pork belly" influenced by Chinese cuisine, and the traditional home cooking "meat and potatoes" among the many diverse meat dishes.
Introduction to Donburi Dishes with Meat
The meal style of topping cooked meat on rice is called "Donburi," and various menus are offered at major beef bowl chain restaurants. The simplicity, low cost, and satisfaction of fullness make meat-topped donburi popular among many people.
Introduction to Unique Ramen
There are four major categories of ramen: soy sauce ramen, pork bone ramen, miso ramen, and salt ramen. However, there are also other unique styles of ramen.


4.Transportation Information

■ How to get to Nagoya
Nagoya Tourism Convention Bureau Official Site (Multilingual support)
https://www.nagoya-info.jp/

■ How to get to Chubu Centrair International Airport
Chubu Centrair International Airport Official Site (Multilingual support)
https://www.centrair.jp/index.html

5.Map Information

Map of Aichi Prefecture