Nagoya Castle
One of the largest castles in Japan, built in the early Edo period on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, the five-story castle tower is topped with shining two Kinshachi, one male and one female that has become a symbol of Nagoya.
I recommend buying the pass that includes the main keep, gardens, and other exhibitions. It's the best way to fully explore the entire castle area.
SUNSHINE SAKAE
The building is located along Nishiki-dori, one of Nagoya's main streets, and features a Ferris wheel on its wall. The Ferris wheel, called "Sky-Boat," is 40 meters in diameter and reaches a maximum height of 52 meters above the ground.
This place has a great mix of shopping and entertainment options. It's an ideal spot for shopping.
Kyushu Railway History Museum
Located in the Mojiko Retro District, this railroad museum is housed in a Meiji-era red brick building that was the former headquarters of Kyushu Railway Company. The museum exhibits old rolling stock, uniforms of past station staff, and railroad equipment, and is fun not only for railroad fans but also for the whole family.
If you're a train enthusiast, you should definitely check this place out.
Oharai Machi, Okage Yokocho
In front of the Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu Shrine, there's a street called Oharai Machi that bustles with numerous worshippers every year. From the Edo Period to early Meiji Period, many people called Onshi lived here and performed Shinto dance and music for their worshippers (Oharai), thus, the name Oharai Machi is believed to have come about.
It's super lively and really popular. Feels just like stepping back into the Edo period.
Wajima Morning Market
A thriving morning market with a more than 1,000-year history. More than 200 stalls line the 360-meter "Asaichi-dori" street, selling fresh seafood, vegetables, processed foods, and handmade folk crafts. There is also a charcoal-grilled section where customers can grill the dried fish they purchased, and the market is always packed with people.
I visited as part of my stay at Kagaya. Breakfast was really filling, so I didn't have room to try other foods. The market has a warm, friendly vibe.
IBARAKI FLOWER PARK
Ibaraki Flower Park, located in the nature-rich Yasato area of Ishioka City, was reopened in April 2021 as Ibaraki Flower Park.
The entrance fee of JPY 900 feels a bit expensive!