Mojiko Retro is perfect for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you can see many Western-style houses and historic buildings that retain the architectural styles of the Meiji and Taisho periods, including Mojiko Station, the Former Moji Mitsui Club, and the Former Osaka Shosen Building. As you stroll through the area, the retro Western-style buildings and harbor views create the feeling of stepping back in time. If you want to explore all the main attractions, it's best to set aside at least half a day. You can also enjoy curry rice and shop for souvenirs.
Mojiko Retro | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Chunichi Building
Chunichi Building, which opened in April 2024, is a mixed-use complex in the Sakae area of Nagoya. From B1F to 5F, it offers a wide variety of shops, including restaurants, cafes, general goods stores, and local product shops, and its greatest appeal is that visitors can enjoy food, shopping, and sightseeing all in one place. Directly connected to the underground mall and easy to access, it is also conveniently located as a base for sightseeing.
While shopping and sightseeing in downtown Nagoya, I wanted to find somewhere to take a break, so I stopped by the Chunichi Building on a whim to look for a drink shop. I unexpectedly came across YATAGARASU on B1F. The shop has a simple design with a slightly artsy feel and mainly sells Japanese tea drinks and sweets.
I ordered an iced matcha au lait that day. The fresh aroma of the matcha blended perfectly with the smoothness of the milk. It went down smoothly with a subtle tea fragrance and was refreshing and thirst-quenching.
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Omiyage Kaido Kaikyo Plaza
This souvenir specialty store is located in the "Kaikyo Plaza" commercial complex in the nostalgic Mojiko Retro area. A wide variety of souvenirs from the Mojiko area are on display, including banana snacks unique to Mojiko, which is said to be the birthplace of Banana Auction, and products related to Mojiko's famous gourmet, yaki curry.
When visiting Mojiko, Kaikyo Plaza is a convenient place to stop by and shop for souvenirs. There are many specialty stores inside, where you can find everything from Mojiko specialties to regional foods from across Kyushu, such as the classic baked curry, banana sweets, mentaiko, seafood, and famous Fukuoka confections. In addition to food, they also sell unique goods and souvenirs exclusive to Mojiko and the Kanmon Straits, with a wide variety of options.
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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.
Stepping into Nagoya Castle feels like being transported back to the Edo period of Tokugawa Ieyasu in an instant! The most impressive sight is the pair of golden shachihoko on the roof, gleaming brilliantly in the sunlight and showcasing the authority and splendor of the Edo shogunate. Walking along the moat, the massive stone walls rise in layers, and the weight of history surrounds you, making it impossible not to admire the extraordinary craftsmanship of the ancient builders.
The most stunning part is the recently restored Honmaru Palace. The moment you step inside, the dazzling gold wall paintings and intricately detailed carvings recreate the luxurious life of the shogun's family. It's breathtakingly beautiful. You may also run into the Nagoya Omotenashi Busho-tai, dressed in armor, whose lively interactions bring history to life. Whether surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring or colorful maple leaves in fall, this is definitely an essential attraction when visiting Nagoya!
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