Nagoya Castle
One of Japan's most iconic feudal castles, built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1612 as a symbol of shogunal power. Its golden pair of shachihoko (tiger-headed carp) ornaments atop the keep are synonymous with Nagoya. The recently reconstructed Honmaru Palace inside the grounds features lavish painted interiors.
1.5–2 hours
¥500
9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00); closed Dec 29–31
March–April (cherry blossoms fill the moat), October–November
5 min walk from Nagoya-jo Station (Meijo Line), 7th exit
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The golden shachihoko fish-tiger on the roof are 2.4 m tall — replicas are city icons sold everywhere
- 2
Honmaru Palace has immaculate cedar-and-gold fusuma paintings restored over 10 years of work
- 3
The castle tower is slated for full wood reconstruction — visit the current concrete version before it closes
Local Tips
The golden shachi (tiger-fish) on the castle's roof corners are Nagoya's most iconic symbol. The Honmaru Palace reconstruction (completed 2018) uses traditional techniques and materials — the painted interior rooms are extraordinary. The original main tower is under reconstruction; the Honmaru Palace is the main current attraction. Combine with Atsuta Jingu for a full Nagoya historical day.
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