Exploring Nagoya
History, Culture, and Local Attractions

Welcome to Nagoya!

Nagoya is one of Japan's most important historical cities and offers visitors a unique combination of cultural heritage and contemporary urban life. We encourage APLC participants to take some time to explore the city during their stay.

Near the Conference Venue

• Shirotori Garden

Located within walking distance of the conference venue, Shirotori Garden is one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in the region. Designed around the landscape of central Japan, it provides a peaceful introduction to traditional Japanese garden aesthetics.

• Atsuta Shrine

Close to Shirotori Garden is Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines. With a history extending back many centuries, it remains a major religious and cultural landmark.

Historic Nagoya

• Nagoya Castle

No visit to Nagoya would be complete without seeing Nagoya Castle. Constructed by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early seventeenth century, it played a significant role in the political history of early modern Japan. Although the main keep is currently closed, the beautifully reconstructed Honmaru Palace is open to visitors and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese architectural craftsmanship.

• Tokugawa Art Museum

Those interested in Japanese history and culture may also wish to visit the Tokugawa Art Museum. Its collections provide a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of the Tokugawa family and the world of the Edo period.

Excursions from Nagoya

• Inuyama Castle

About 30 minutes from central Nagoya, Inuyama Castle is one of Japan's oldest surviving castles and one of the few whose main keep is an original structure dating from before the modern era. Overlooking the Kiso River, it offers both historical significance and beautiful scenery.

• Seto

The city of Seto is one of Japan's most renowned pottery centers and has given its name to the word setomono, a common Japanese term for ceramics. Visitors can explore workshops, museums, and traditional streetscapes while learning about a craft tradition that has flourished for centuries.

Contemporary Nagoya

• Sakae District

The Sakae district is the vibrant center of modern Nagoya. Hisaya-odori Park and the Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER are popular destinations for walking, dining, shopping, and experiencing the city's contemporary atmosphere.

• Sky Promenade

For panoramic views of the city, visitors may enjoy the Sky Promenade near Nagoya Station. The observation deck offers a spectacular perspective on Nagoya's skyline, particularly in the evening.

Nagoya Cuisine

Exploring Nagoya is not only about history and culture. It is also an opportunity to enjoy Nagoya meshi, the city's distinctive local cuisine.

Some of the best-known specialties include:

• Hitsumabushi: grilled eel served over rice and enjoyed in several different ways.

• Miso Katsu: breaded pork cutlet served with Nagoya's rich red miso sauce.

• Tebasaki: seasoned chicken wings, famous for their sweet and spicy flavor.

• Kishimen: flat wheat noodles that are particularly associated with the Nagoya region.

• Miso Nikomi Udon: udon noodles simmered in a hearty red miso broth.

Many excellent restaurants serving these dishes can be found around Nagoya Station and in the Sakae district.

Additional Information

For further information on attractions, transportation, events, restaurants, and other travel resources, please consult the official Nagoya City Guide.

We hope your stay in Nagoya will be both intellectually rewarding and culturally enriching.