Things to Do in Nagoya | Dolphin Shows, Castles & Toyota Museum Tours

A major thoroughfare and port city in central Japan, Nagoya has long been a hub for some of the country’s most important and interesting history. As such, things to do in Nagoya are as diverse as the city itself. Two can’t-miss attractions are the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and Nagoya TV Tower, made famous by one of Japan’s most famous celebrities – Godzilla!

Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

Loved for its dolphin shows in the world’s largest outdoor water tank, Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is an incredible place to visit. Dolphin shows aren’t all the aquarium does well, either. The aquatic museum houses marine life from several regions around Japan and the Antarctic Ocean. Waddling penguins, sea turtles, whales and more are on display at Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium.

Committed to marine education and conservation, the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium boasts large-scale tanks and immersive exhibits, providing a window into the underwater world. The Aquarium actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species and conducts research in-house on local marine ecosystems, setting itself apart as a leader in marine science, both within Japan and internationally. Visitors can join educational sessions to learn more about the importance of preserving ocean habitats and the challenges facing marine ecosystems today.

Nagoya TV Tower

Nagoya TV Tower was built in 1954 as a communications tower, but the tower quickly gained fame when it starred in the 1964 “Mothra vs. Godzilla” movie. It appeared again in the 1992 remake “Godzilla vs. Mothra,” and now the tower serves as one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Nagoya TV Tower contains two main observation decks, the indoor Sky Deck at 295 feet (90 meters) and the outdoor Sky Balcony at 328 feet (100 meters). About 30 meters up the tower, a restaurant and gallery welcomes guests to enjoy a meal and learn more about the unique history of Nagoya TV Tower, today a Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property in Japan.

As Japan’s oldest TV tower, it stands as a symbol of Nagoya’s post-war reconstruction and modernization. Its distinctive design has also set it as an architectural icon, visually reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower. What makes Nagoya TV Tower particularly special, though, is its role as a cultural and social hub. Events and exhibitions are often hosted here, providing a stunning location for visitors to experience in a variety of ways. Be sure to also stop by at night when the tower is illuminated, beautifully enhancing the Nagoya skyline.

Nagoya Castle

Built in the heart of Japan at the crossroads between Osaka and Tokyo, Nagoya Castle once served guard over the territory where two of the country’s most important trade routes connected. The restored 1612 castle now serves as a museum, and visitors can see the remains of the castle’s moat along with pieces of the outer wall and corner turrets. One of the most impressive buildings is a re-creation of the original castle palace. The palace museum opened to the public in 2018 and is a grand display of traditional Shoin architecture. Visitors lucky enough to tour Nagoya Castle in late March and early April will be delighted with the cherry blossom trees that bloom throughout the complex and in connecting Meijo Park.

As one of the country’s most significant historical landmarks, the Nagoya Castle is a must visit for your trip to the city. Its iconic architecture is characterized by the golden shachihoko (tiger-fish) decorating the roof, symbolizing the grand power of the era. The expansive castle grounds include landscaped gardens and Honmaru Palace, which was meticulously reconstructed to showcase traditional Japanese design and craftsmanship. Nagoya Castle stands as a living museum, dedicated to preserving and sharing Japan’s cultural heritage. Be sure to check out the exhibits and displays that provide exciting information about the lives of samurai and the castle’s strategic importance.

Atsuta Shrine

As one of the most significant Shinto shrines in Japan, Atsuta Shrine is revered for its deep cultural and historical importance. Established over 1,900 years ago, the shrine was built to honor Atsuta-no-Okami, a deity associated with the sacred sword of Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. This vital spiritual site draws millions of visitors each year, who come to pay their respects and seek blessings. Situated within a peaceful forested area, Atsuta Shrine offers a serene escape from the busy city surrounding it. The grounds are also host to several other important cultural artifacts, such as ancient manuscripts, which are displayed in the onsite museum.

Atsuta Shrine is not only an important spiritual site but has also become a hub of local cultural activity. Various festivals and ceremonies are held here throughout the year, offering an exciting opportunity for visitors to experience Japanese culture and Shinto rituals. Visits to the shrine are free, however, there may be additional fees for special exhibitions or exclusive events.

Osu Shopping Street

A shopping trip in city center is a must while visiting Nagoya. The city’s most prominent and popular shopping street, Osu Shopping District, is a jackpot of retail stores, souvenir shops, specialty stores and restaurants. The street itself contains more than 400 shops, and with the combined stores along connecting Wakamiya Boulevard, Fushimi Street and Minami Otsu Street, shoppers are looking at more than 1,200 electronics stores, secondhand shops and boutiques featuring anime, manga and cosplay! If that’s not enough, Osu Kannan, a re-creation of an ornate 14th century Buddhist temple, is at the end of Osu Shopping District.

Dig through the local vintage shops and explore unique boutiques to find your perfect Nagoya souvenir, to be treasured as a memory of your Japan adventure for years to come. The energetic atmosphere throughout the area is sure to get you in the mood for discovery, even offering a variety of dining options. Snack on some street food or take a break in a cozy café before carrying on with your shopping adventure. Stick around until evening to see what’s on – the area frequently hosts events and activities, from traditional performances to pop culture.

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Arimatsu Narumi Shibori

The historic town of Arimatsu is known for the traditional tie-dyeing technique called shibori, a local handcraft has been practiced for over 400 years! Your visit includes the opportunity to participate in workshops and galleries dedicated to the artform, even creating your own shibori-dyed fabric to take home as a souvenir. The town itself is also traditionally charming, with preserved Edo-period architecture that offers a peek into the town’s artisanal past.

The living tradition of shibori-dyeing has been preserved and passed down throughout the generations. With intricate patterns and vibrant colors, the process is quite labor-intensive, including specific methods of tying, folding, and dying the fabric. The versatility of shibori-dyeing has solidified is enduring appeal.

In addition to the local museum and the town itself, Arimatsu also hosts an annual Shibori Festival, celebrating the town’s rich cultural heritage. A lively event with parades, music, and performances, the festival is a truly vibrant display of the local culture. From shopping to demonstrations and workshops, this event is worth planning your trip around!

Nagoya’s Top Museums

Nagoya contains an impressive number of interesting museums dedicating to preserving history and promoting science and the advancement of technology at the same time. The best things about going on a museum tour in Nagoya is that the city is easy to navigate, and the best museums are spaced just minutes apart from one another.

Can’t-miss museums in Nagoya

• Nagoya City Science Museum – the giant silver globe in Shirakawa Park makes this museum a sight to behold anyway, but on the inside, visitors can experience one of the world’s largest planetariums, astronomy programs and displays and seven floors of educational, fun and mind-blowing exhibits. Nagoya City Science Museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Monday, the fourth Friday of each month and from December 29 to January 3). Tickets are 800 JPY (8 USD) for the museum and planetarium or 400 JPY for the museum only.
• Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology – just a 15-minute drive from Shirakawa Park, this epic museum documents the founding and flourishing of one of the world’s most recognized auto makers. Visitors can trace the timeline of Toyota from its inception to its modern-day marvels. The museum is housed in the original red brick building of the “Toyoda” textile factory and research center. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with last admission at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are 500 JPY.
  If you’re wanting to learn more about the evolution of automobiles worldwide, check out the Toyota Automobile Museum, located in Nagakute, just outside of Nagoya. Showcasing an extensive collection of classic and vintage cars from around the world, the museum focuses on the technological advancements and design changes throughout the decades. A fun and fascinating destination for car lovers!
• Nagoya City Art Museum – another standout in Shirakawa Park, Nagoya City Art Museum is a fascinating space dedicated to art. The museum rotates three permanent collection galleries each year and showcases several smaller exhibition halls. The museum stays busy with regular events, lectures and conferences, and visitors are welcome – and encouraged – to enjoy the museum’s library and relax in the sculptured gardens that surround the art space. Nagoya City Art Museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entrance at 4:30 p.m.) daily (closed Monday). Friday hours are 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (last entrance at 7:30 p.m.). Tickets to view the permanent exhibits are 300 JPY.
• Tokugawa Art Museum – providing a fascinating glimpse into the life and culture of the Edo period, including a showcase of the treasures of the Tokugawa family, the Tokugawa Art Museum invites visitors to explore an impressive collection of samurai swords, tea ceremony equipment, and fine art masterpieces. Set within a serene Japanese garden, a visit to this museum is a standout cultural experience. Tokugawa Art Museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (closed Mondays). Tickets are 1,400 JPY for adults.
• SCMAGLEV and Railway Park – a unique experience for train lovers! Operated by JR Central, the museum offers an extensive collection of historic trains, from steam locomotives and Skinkansen bullet trains to the latest magnetic levitation (maglev) models. Check out the interactive exhibits and simulators to experience the evolution of railway technology for yourself. SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily (closed Tuesdays). Tickets are 1,000 JPY for adults.
• Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts – a collaborative museum experience between the city of Nagoya and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, this museum hosts rotating exhibitions in an effort to bring wide ranging, world-class art to the city. Exhibitions span various periods and cultures, with a diverse range of art from classical masterpieces to more contemporary works. A must-visit for art lovers! The Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (closed Mondays). Ticket prices depend on the exhibition, but typically range from 1,200 JPY to 1,500 JPY for adults.

Find hotels & waterfront resorts in Nagoya

Sanco Inn Nagoya Fushimi

The Strings Hotel Nagoya

300 HOSTEL Osu Kannon