Nagoya Castle, built in the 1610s on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, is the landmark castle of Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture, famed for the golden shachihoko (gilded fish ornaments) crowning its roof and its imposing main keep. The 1959 ferro-concrete keep, rebuilt after wartime air raids destroyed the original, is currently closed for earthquake-safety reasons, but the Honmaru Palace (Hommaru Goten) reconstructed with traditional methods is fully open and stands as the site's finest attraction, complete with lavish painted sliding-door art.
The Honmaru Palace (Hommaru Goten), authentically reconstructed 2009–2018 using traditional materials and craftsmanship, with dazzling gold-leaf wall paintings and fine woodwork
The iconic golden shachihoko atop the keep, plus a full-size replica at ground level where visitors pose for photos
A premier spring hanami spot with around 1,000 cherry trees, and the four-season scenery of Ninomaru Garden
Well-kept castle gardens, teahouses, and impressive moats and stone walls
Kinshachi Yokocho, a castle-town-style food and souvenir alley beside the castle serving Nagoya specialties
Good to know
RulesThe 1959 concrete main keep has been closed to entry since 2018 due to earthquake-safety concerns; a wooden reconstruction is targeted for around 2032 but delayed. Come knowing the Honmaru Palace is the main draw. Confirm current status on the official site.
MannersYou must remove your shoes to enter the Honmaru Palace (lockers and slippers provided), and flash photography and tripods are prohibited indoors to protect the painted screens.
RulesThe castle is closed on Mondays (the next weekday if Monday is a national holiday) and over the year-end (Dec 29–Jan 1). Double-check the day of the week and current opening days before you go.
SeasonNagoya summers (July–August) are among Japan's hottest and most humid, and the grounds offer little shade. Bring water, a hat, or a parasol. Expect heavy crowds during cherry-blossom season (late March–early April) and autumn foliage.
RulesLast admission is earlier than closing. Hours are 9:00–16:30, but last entry to the Honmaru Palace and museum is 16:00, so allow enough time on late-afternoon visits (verify latest hours).
Practical info
Take the Meijo subway line to Nagoyajo Station (formerly Shiyakusho, renamed 2023), about a 3–5 minute walk. Admission roughly ¥500 for adults, free for junior-high students and younger (Honmaru Palace included); confirm current pricing. Allow 1.5–2 hours.
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