Nagoya Castle Walking Tour (Self Guided), Nagoya
Nagoya Castle, constructed in 1612, is the former center of one of Japan's most important junctions linking two of the country's five major highways. The castle became a core part of modern Nagoya in 1930. Partially destroyed during World War II – in 1945, it has been under reconstruction since 1957.
The castle complex is characterized by multiple defensive layers divided by the outer and inner moats and fortified with walls and turrets, with strategically placed gates and bridges controlling access. Today, this prime example of flatland fortification represents not only a homage to the past but also a nexus of meticulously preserved sites and modern attractions, making it a focal point for visitors.
You can start your visit at the Nishinomaru Enokida Gate, a robust structure at the entrance to the castle's western courtyard. This gate leads to the Nishinomaru Treasure Museum, where you can see an extensive collection of samurai armor, weapons, and other relics that illustrate the lavish lifestyle and military prowess of the era.
Nearby, the Old Kaya Tree, a venerable, centuries-old natural monument, stands as a living witness to the castle’s past.
The Nagoya Castle Keeps, the main towers of the castle, dominate the skyline. With their mythical, gold tiger-headed carp statues, they symbolize the power and wealth of the Tokugawa lords. Meanwhile, the recently restored Hommaru Palace within the castle grounds showcases opulent Edo-period craftsmanship and artistry.
A stroll through the Ninomaru Garden offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens and teahouses, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town. Divided into two zones – Muneharu and Yoshinao – buzzing with vibrant eateries serving local specialties, this area allows visitors to indulge in the culinary delights of Nagoya.
Whenever you're in the city, don’t miss out on exploring these captivating sites around Nagoya Castle. Each location offers a unique perspective on Japan's heritage and a chance to experience the charm of Nagoya firsthand. Embark on this self-guided walk and step into a world where the past spectacularly meets the present!
The castle complex is characterized by multiple defensive layers divided by the outer and inner moats and fortified with walls and turrets, with strategically placed gates and bridges controlling access. Today, this prime example of flatland fortification represents not only a homage to the past but also a nexus of meticulously preserved sites and modern attractions, making it a focal point for visitors.
You can start your visit at the Nishinomaru Enokida Gate, a robust structure at the entrance to the castle's western courtyard. This gate leads to the Nishinomaru Treasure Museum, where you can see an extensive collection of samurai armor, weapons, and other relics that illustrate the lavish lifestyle and military prowess of the era.
Nearby, the Old Kaya Tree, a venerable, centuries-old natural monument, stands as a living witness to the castle’s past.
The Nagoya Castle Keeps, the main towers of the castle, dominate the skyline. With their mythical, gold tiger-headed carp statues, they symbolize the power and wealth of the Tokugawa lords. Meanwhile, the recently restored Hommaru Palace within the castle grounds showcases opulent Edo-period craftsmanship and artistry.
A stroll through the Ninomaru Garden offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens and teahouses, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town. Divided into two zones – Muneharu and Yoshinao – buzzing with vibrant eateries serving local specialties, this area allows visitors to indulge in the culinary delights of Nagoya.
Whenever you're in the city, don’t miss out on exploring these captivating sites around Nagoya Castle. Each location offers a unique perspective on Japan's heritage and a chance to experience the charm of Nagoya firsthand. Embark on this self-guided walk and step into a world where the past spectacularly meets the present!
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Nagoya Castle Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Nagoya Castle Walking Tour
Guide Location: Japan » Nagoya (See other walking tours in Nagoya)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: felicity
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Japan » Nagoya (See other walking tours in Nagoya)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: felicity
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Nishinomaru Enokida Gate
- Old Kaya Tree
- Nishinomaru Okura Johokan (Nishiomaru Treasure Museum)
- Nagoya Castle Keeps
- Hommaru Palace
- Ninomaru Garden
- Muneharu Zone of Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town
- Yoshinao Zone of Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town
1) Nishinomaru Enokida Gate
The Nishinomaru Enokida Gate - the Main Gate of Nagoya Castle, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Originally built as a tower gate (yagura mon), this gate was part of the castle's defensive system, particularly protecting the western Nishinomaru enceinte. It featured a smaller front gate called Kabuki Gate and a rectangular-shaped barbican tower on the surrounding stone walls, creating a fortified area known as Masugata Koguchi. This design allowed defenders to encircle and trap enemies entering the castle.
The original structure suffered considerable damage during the 1891 Mino–Owari earthquake. In 1911, the Hasuike Gate, originally from Edo Castle in Tokyo, was relocated to Nagoya Castle as a replacement. However, both gates were destroyed during an air raid in 1945. The Nishinomaru Enokida Gate was carefully rebuilt in 1959 using reinforced concrete, preserving its traditional architectural style.
Today, it serves as the main entrance to Nagoya Castle, standing as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of the region.
The original structure suffered considerable damage during the 1891 Mino–Owari earthquake. In 1911, the Hasuike Gate, originally from Edo Castle in Tokyo, was relocated to Nagoya Castle as a replacement. However, both gates were destroyed during an air raid in 1945. The Nishinomaru Enokida Gate was carefully rebuilt in 1959 using reinforced concrete, preserving its traditional architectural style.
Today, it serves as the main entrance to Nagoya Castle, standing as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of the region.
2) Old Kaya Tree
The Old Kaya Tree (Torreya nucifera) near the Main Gate of Nagoya Castle is a significant natural monument, standing 16 meters tall with a base circumference of eight meters. This venerable tree, estimated to be over 600 years old, predates the construction of Nagoya Castle and holds the distinction of being the only government-designated natural monument in the city.
Despite suffering damage during the air raids of 1945, the Kaya tree has remarkably regained its vitality. It is historically linked to Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first feudal lord of Owari, who reportedly used the tree's nuts for special occasions. Before heading into battle in Osaka and during New Year's celebrations, he decorated his dinner tray with these nuts, highlighting the tree's cultural and historical importance. This ancient tree continues to be a living symbol of resilience and tradition in Nagoya.
Despite suffering damage during the air raids of 1945, the Kaya tree has remarkably regained its vitality. It is historically linked to Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first feudal lord of Owari, who reportedly used the tree's nuts for special occasions. Before heading into battle in Osaka and during New Year's celebrations, he decorated his dinner tray with these nuts, highlighting the tree's cultural and historical importance. This ancient tree continues to be a living symbol of resilience and tradition in Nagoya.
3) Nishinomaru Okura Johokan (Nishiomaru Treasure Museum)
Nishiomaru Treasure Museum is an exhibition and storage facility designed to resemble the historic rice storehouses (kura) that once stood in this area. The name "Jōhōkan," meaning "castle treasure hall," highlights its role in showcasing the treasures of Nagoya Castle and sharing information about its rich history. The facility offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the castle's past through a variety of exhibits and educational materials.
One of the key attractions of the Nishiomaru Treasure Museum is the History Information Room, which provides a detailed overview of Nagoya Castle's history from its construction to the present day. Here, visitors can engage with interactive displays, video presentations, and even games designed to educate both children and adults about the castle's significance. The Exhibition Room features a rotating selection of exhibits that include the wall and screen paintings from the original Hommaru Palace, which are designated as National Important Cultural Assets. These exhibits change throughout the year, ensuring that each visit offers new insights and discoveries.
The Storage Room at the Nishinomaru Okura Johokan is specially designed to preserve the valuable collections of Nagoya Castle, including the centuries-old wall and screen paintings that survived the wartime destruction of the original castle structures. This room provides an optimal environment for the conservation of these priceless artifacts, ensuring their protection for future generations.
For visitors looking to take home a piece of their experience, the Museum Shop offers a range of unique items, including exclusive products related to rice, in homage to the area's historical function as a rice storage site.
One of the key attractions of the Nishiomaru Treasure Museum is the History Information Room, which provides a detailed overview of Nagoya Castle's history from its construction to the present day. Here, visitors can engage with interactive displays, video presentations, and even games designed to educate both children and adults about the castle's significance. The Exhibition Room features a rotating selection of exhibits that include the wall and screen paintings from the original Hommaru Palace, which are designated as National Important Cultural Assets. These exhibits change throughout the year, ensuring that each visit offers new insights and discoveries.
The Storage Room at the Nishinomaru Okura Johokan is specially designed to preserve the valuable collections of Nagoya Castle, including the centuries-old wall and screen paintings that survived the wartime destruction of the original castle structures. This room provides an optimal environment for the conservation of these priceless artifacts, ensuring their protection for future generations.
For visitors looking to take home a piece of their experience, the Museum Shop offers a range of unique items, including exclusive products related to rice, in homage to the area's historical function as a rice storage site.
4) Nagoya Castle Keeps
Nagoya Castle, renowned for its distinctive "connected-keep" architecture, features a main keep with five stories on different levels and a smaller keep of two levels connected by an abutment bridge. This unique design adds to the castle's historical and architectural significance. Evidence suggests that another small keep was initially planned for the west side of the main keep, as indicated by traces of an entryway in the upper stone wall foundation. However, during construction, the entryway's location was changed to its current position, leaving remnants of the original plan embedded in the stonework.
The keeps served practical defensive functions, with the first level of the main keep used for storing various weapons, while flammable materials like gunpowder were kept outside the castle to reduce fire risk. Tragically, both the main and small keeps were destroyed during World War II but were reconstructed in 1959 using modern materials such as steel beams and concrete. In 2017, a donation drive was launched to rebuild the keeps using wood, based on the original plans, with the aim of completing the main tower by 2022.
The construction of the castle's impressive stone walls was a collaborative effort among twenty feudal lords, including Katō Kiyomasa, who oversaw the building of the keep's walls. The foundation stones bear inscriptions from the family members involved, a testament to the craftsmanship and labor invested. The stone wall supporting the keep employs a technique known as "ogi kobai" or "fan sloping," where the upper part curves outward like a fan. This design, also referred to as the Kiyomasa-style Crescent Stone Wall, helps prevent wall swelling by balancing the stone weight against the internal pressure of sand and earth.
A notable feature between the main and small keeps is a roofless corridor with earthen and stone walls. The outer part of the west side of this corridor is lined with 30-centimeter-long spearheads, designed to deter enemy troops from climbing over the eaves. Similar defensive structures, including a sword-fence, are present at the Fumei Gate on the east side of the main keep, highlighting the castle's strategic design elements aimed at thwarting potential attackers.
The keeps served practical defensive functions, with the first level of the main keep used for storing various weapons, while flammable materials like gunpowder were kept outside the castle to reduce fire risk. Tragically, both the main and small keeps were destroyed during World War II but were reconstructed in 1959 using modern materials such as steel beams and concrete. In 2017, a donation drive was launched to rebuild the keeps using wood, based on the original plans, with the aim of completing the main tower by 2022.
The construction of the castle's impressive stone walls was a collaborative effort among twenty feudal lords, including Katō Kiyomasa, who oversaw the building of the keep's walls. The foundation stones bear inscriptions from the family members involved, a testament to the craftsmanship and labor invested. The stone wall supporting the keep employs a technique known as "ogi kobai" or "fan sloping," where the upper part curves outward like a fan. This design, also referred to as the Kiyomasa-style Crescent Stone Wall, helps prevent wall swelling by balancing the stone weight against the internal pressure of sand and earth.
A notable feature between the main and small keeps is a roofless corridor with earthen and stone walls. The outer part of the west side of this corridor is lined with 30-centimeter-long spearheads, designed to deter enemy troops from climbing over the eaves. Similar defensive structures, including a sword-fence, are present at the Fumei Gate on the east side of the main keep, highlighting the castle's strategic design elements aimed at thwarting potential attackers.
5) Hommaru Palace
Hommaru Palace, located at the heart of Nagoya Castle, was an architectural masterpiece designed as the living quarters for the castle's lord and later for the shogun. Surrounded by formidable keeps and watchtowers, the palace stood as a testament to both the military strength and cultural sophistication of the Tokugawa shogunate. Constructed from high-quality hinoki wood, a prized fragrant cypress, the palace was lavishly adorned with colorful paintings on pure gold leaf. These paintings depicted tigers, leopards, auspicious birds, animals, plants, and flowers, making the interior of Hommaru Palace a visual feast.
The palace's grandeur was so impressive that Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, commissioned a similar structure in Kyoto, though it was considered inferior to the Nagoya palace. A year after the palace's completion, Tokugawa Yoshinao, Ieyasu's son and the first lord of Nagoya, moved to another luxurious residence in the second citadel, declaring that the Hommaru Palace would be reserved exclusively for shogunal visits. This decree led to the palace being used only about five times over the next 250 years, which helped preserve its pristine condition. Following the end of Japan’s feudal period, the palace served as a summer residence for three Emperors between 1893 and 1930.
Tragically, Hommaru Palace was destroyed during the air raids of 1945, a loss felt deeply due to its historical and cultural significance. Fortunately, many important artworks were saved by being moved to storage before the bombing. The palace is being reconstructed using traditional methods and materials to restore its former glory. The reconstruction has been carried out in phases, with the first part opening to the public in 2013, the second in June 2016, and the entire palace completed in 2018. The restored Hommaru Palace now serves as a vivid reminder of the rich history and artistry of Japan's Edo period, attracting visitors from around the world.
The palace's grandeur was so impressive that Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, commissioned a similar structure in Kyoto, though it was considered inferior to the Nagoya palace. A year after the palace's completion, Tokugawa Yoshinao, Ieyasu's son and the first lord of Nagoya, moved to another luxurious residence in the second citadel, declaring that the Hommaru Palace would be reserved exclusively for shogunal visits. This decree led to the palace being used only about five times over the next 250 years, which helped preserve its pristine condition. Following the end of Japan’s feudal period, the palace served as a summer residence for three Emperors between 1893 and 1930.
Tragically, Hommaru Palace was destroyed during the air raids of 1945, a loss felt deeply due to its historical and cultural significance. Fortunately, many important artworks were saved by being moved to storage before the bombing. The palace is being reconstructed using traditional methods and materials to restore its former glory. The reconstruction has been carried out in phases, with the first part opening to the public in 2013, the second in June 2016, and the entire palace completed in 2018. The restored Hommaru Palace now serves as a vivid reminder of the rich history and artistry of Japan's Edo period, attracting visitors from around the world.
6) Ninomaru Garden
Ninomaru Garden is a historical gem dating back to the 17th century. This traditional Japanese landscape garden was originally laid out between 1615 and 1623 alongside the Ninomaru Palace. It is renowned for its serene beauty, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely walk. The garden's design evolved over the centuries, particularly in the early 18th century when it was transformed into a strolling garden featuring grass lawns and dry stone gardens, elements typical of Japanese garden aesthetics.
One of the garden's highlights is the Ninomaru Tea House, where visitors can experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. This modern addition to the garden complements its historical ambiance, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy green tea and Japanese confectionery.
The garden is divided into three main areas: Kita Miwa, Minami Garden, and East Garden. The East Ninomaru Garden, notable for its expansive lawns, was reconstructed after World War II based on old illustrations. This area includes two ponds, a tea arbor, and a stone drain, all restored to reflect their original designs. The South Garden is a newer addition, created after the Ninomaru Palace was dismantled during the Meiji era.
Despite various modifications over time, the Kita-Miwa Garden remains a significant part of Ninomaru Garden, preserving elements that reflect the original construction of Nagoya Castle. The garden's thoughtful layout and historical features make it a serene and culturally rich destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's landscaping traditions and historical architecture.
One of the garden's highlights is the Ninomaru Tea House, where visitors can experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. This modern addition to the garden complements its historical ambiance, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy green tea and Japanese confectionery.
The garden is divided into three main areas: Kita Miwa, Minami Garden, and East Garden. The East Ninomaru Garden, notable for its expansive lawns, was reconstructed after World War II based on old illustrations. This area includes two ponds, a tea arbor, and a stone drain, all restored to reflect their original designs. The South Garden is a newer addition, created after the Ninomaru Palace was dismantled during the Meiji era.
Despite various modifications over time, the Kita-Miwa Garden remains a significant part of Ninomaru Garden, preserving elements that reflect the original construction of Nagoya Castle. The garden's thoughtful layout and historical features make it a serene and culturally rich destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's landscaping traditions and historical architecture.
7) Muneharu Zone of Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town
The Muneharu Zone of Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town, located near the East Gate of Nagoya Castle, offers a contemporary twist on traditional Japanese dining. Named after the seventh provincial ruler, Lord Muneharu Tokugawa, this area embodies the themes of modernity and change. Opened on March 29, 2018, the Muneharu Zone features a collection of restaurants that blend innovative culinary techniques with classic flavors, providing a unique dining experience that appeals to both local and international palates.
Architecturally, the Muneharu Zone stands out with its modern Japanese design, characterized by large glass panes that create a bright and open atmosphere. This design not only reflects the zone's forward-thinking ethos but also complements the historical setting of Nagoya Castle, blending the old with the new in a harmonious way. The restaurants in this zone are known for their creative menus, offering dishes that are both visually stunning and gastronomically satisfying. The chefs and owners, many of whom have made names for themselves in Japan and abroad, bring a fresh perspective to traditional Japanese cuisine.
Adding to the cultural experience, the Muneharu Zone hosts the Mino Washi Paper Light art exhibit, showcasing beautifully crafted lamps made from Mino washi paper. These lamps are illuminated in the evenings, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance that enhances the dining experience. This exhibit, running until the end of September, highlights the artistry and craftsmanship associated with traditional Japanese paper-making, while also aligning with the zone's theme of modernity and change.
Architecturally, the Muneharu Zone stands out with its modern Japanese design, characterized by large glass panes that create a bright and open atmosphere. This design not only reflects the zone's forward-thinking ethos but also complements the historical setting of Nagoya Castle, blending the old with the new in a harmonious way. The restaurants in this zone are known for their creative menus, offering dishes that are both visually stunning and gastronomically satisfying. The chefs and owners, many of whom have made names for themselves in Japan and abroad, bring a fresh perspective to traditional Japanese cuisine.
Adding to the cultural experience, the Muneharu Zone hosts the Mino Washi Paper Light art exhibit, showcasing beautifully crafted lamps made from Mino washi paper. These lamps are illuminated in the evenings, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance that enhances the dining experience. This exhibit, running until the end of September, highlights the artistry and craftsmanship associated with traditional Japanese paper-making, while also aligning with the zone's theme of modernity and change.
8) Yoshinao Zone of Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town
Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town, located at the base of Nagoya Castle, is a celebrated dining and shopping destination that showcases the best of Nagoya's traditional cuisine, known as "Nagoya Meshi" or "Samurai Cuisine." This facility is divided into two distinct areas, each with its unique atmosphere and offerings, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience local culinary delights and cultural heritage.
The Yoshinao Zone, situated near the castle's Main Gate (Seimon), is named after Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first ruler of Nagoya Castle who led the region into the Edo Period. This area emphasizes tradition and historical authenticity, with establishments housed in buildings designed to reflect the architectural style of the early Edo Period.
Here, visitors can indulge in classic Nagoya Meshi dishes prepared by long-established local brands, preserving the authentic flavors that have been cherished for generations. The Yoshinao Zone also features a well-known souvenir shop franchise, offering visitors the chance to take home a piece of Nagoya's cultural heritage.
Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town not only provides a culinary journey through Nagoya's history but also serves as a cultural hub where visitors can immerse themselves in the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines the city.
The Yoshinao Zone, situated near the castle's Main Gate (Seimon), is named after Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first ruler of Nagoya Castle who led the region into the Edo Period. This area emphasizes tradition and historical authenticity, with establishments housed in buildings designed to reflect the architectural style of the early Edo Period.
Here, visitors can indulge in classic Nagoya Meshi dishes prepared by long-established local brands, preserving the authentic flavors that have been cherished for generations. The Yoshinao Zone also features a well-known souvenir shop franchise, offering visitors the chance to take home a piece of Nagoya's cultural heritage.
Kinshachi Yokocho Gourmet Town not only provides a culinary journey through Nagoya's history but also serves as a cultural hub where visitors can immerse themselves in the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines the city.
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