Beyond Tokyo and Osaka: Discovering Japan's Hidden Gems
While Tokyo and Osaka are renowned as Japan's premier cities, their rising accommodation and dining costs have become a concern for travelers. Fortunately, Japan offers numerous other destinations that boast rich culture, history, and unique experiences. Exploring these lesser-known locales can provide more meaningful experiences and better value for your travel budget. In this article, we spotlight Aichi Prefecture, home to the vibrant city of Nagoya.
1. Aichi Prefecture: Where History Meets Modernity
Strategically located between Tokyo and Osaka, Aichi Prefecture is easily accessible via the Shinkansen, with Nagoya Station serving as a major hub. The region seamlessly blends historical heritage with contemporary urban culture.
Legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu
As the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Edo Shogunate, Nagoya is steeped in history. Landmarks like Nagoya Castle and the Tokugawa Art Museum offer glimpses into Japan's feudal past.Home of Toyota
Aichi is the headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation. Visitors can explore the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and the Toyota Automobile Museum to learn about the evolution of Japan's automotive industry.
2. Must-Visit Attractions in Aichi
Nagoya Castle
Constructed in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nagoya Castle is a symbol of the city. The castle is famous for its golden shachihoko (mythical tiger-headed carp) ornaments adorning the rooftop. The Hommaru Palace, once the residence of the Owari Tokugawa clan, was meticulously reconstructed in 2018, showcasing exquisite interiors and traditional Japanese architecture.
Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium
Located in Nagoya's Minato Ward, this is one of Japan's largest aquariums, comprising two main buildings: the North Building, which houses marine mammals like orcas, dolphins, and belugas, and the South Building, which focuses on marine life from Japan to the Antarctic. The aquarium is renowned for its dolphin performances held in Japan's largest outdoor tank.
LEGOLAND Japan
Opened in 2017 in Nagoya's Minato Ward, LEGOLAND® Japan Resort is an outdoor theme park designed for families with children aged 2 to 12. The park features over 40 attractions across seven themed areas, including "Miniland," which showcases miniature versions of famous Japanese landmarks built with over 10 million LEGO® bricks. Adjacent to the park is the LEGOLAND® Japan Hotel, offering LEGO-themed rooms for an immersive experience.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
Established in June 1994, the museum is situated on the historic site of the original Toyota Boshoku headquarters, preserving early 20th-century red-brick factory buildings as industrial heritage. The museum's mission is to systematically introduce the history of Japanese manufacturing technology to those who will be responsible for its future development.
3. Premier Shopping Destinations
Sakae District
Sakae is Nagoya's central shopping and entertainment district, featuring a mix of department stores, boutiques, and dining establishments. Notable spots include Oasis 21, a modern complex with a distinctive glass roof known as the "Water Spaceship," and Sunshine Sakae, which houses a variety of shops and a rooftop Ferris wheel.
Osu Shopping Street
This bustling shopping area boasts over 1,200 shops and restaurants, ranging from electronics and fashion to vintage clothing and gourmet eateries. The district is also home to Osu Kannon Temple and hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Osu Summer Festival and the Osu Daido-chonin Festival.
Yanagibashi Central Market
Situated just a five-minute walk from Nagoya Station, Yanagibashi Central Market is known as the "kitchen of Nagoya." With a history spanning nearly a century, the market offers a wide array of fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies. It's a popular spot for both professional chefs and food enthusiasts seeking high-quality ingredients.
4. Aichi's Culinary Delights
Nagoya is famed for its unique "Nagoya Meshi" cuisine, characterized by rich flavors and inventive dishes that often feature miso.
Miso Katsu
A regional twist on the traditional tonkatsu, miso katsu features a deep-fried pork cutlet topped with a robust red miso sauce. "Yabaton" is a famous restaurant chain specializing in this dish, offering generous portions and a rich, savory experience.
Hitsumabushi
This grilled eel dish is served over rice and enjoyed in three stages: first, savoring the eel as is; second, adding condiments like green onions and wasabi; and third, pouring a light broth over the dish to create a comforting rice soup. "Unagi Munagi" in the Sakae district is a recommended spot to try this delicacy.
Miso Nikomi Udon
A hearty dish featuring thick udon noodles simmered in a rich red miso broth, typically served in a traditional earthenware pot. "Yamamotoya Sohonke," established in 1925, is renowned for its authentic miso nikomi udon, offering a warm and satisfying meal.
Tebasaki (Nagoya-style Fried Chicken Wings)
These crispy, peppery chicken wings are a beloved Nagoya specialty, often enjoyed with a cold beer. "Hurai-bo" is a popular chain known for its flavorful tebasaki, seasoned with a secret blend of spices.
5. Unique Venues in Nagoya
Nagoya boasts several distinctive venues perfect for special events and gatherings:
Ryotei Kawabun
Kawabun is renowned as Nagoya's oldest traditional Japanese restaurant, with a history spanning over 400 years. Established during the construction of Nagoya Castle by Kawachi-ya Bunzaemon, it initially served as a fishmonger and later became the official caterer for the Owari Tokugawa family. Throughout the Meiji era and beyond, Kawabun has hosted numerous dignitaries, including Prime Ministers Hirobumi Ito, Shigeru Yoshida, Kakuei Tanaka, and former French President François Mitterrand. In 2019, it was the venue for the G20 Aichi-Nagoya Foreign Ministers' Meeting dinner. Today, Kawabun seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern amenities, making it an ideal setting for special gatherings and events.
THE CONDER HOUSE
THE CONDER HOUSE is a meticulously renovated establishment housed in the former Nagoya Bank Head Office, originally constructed in 1926. Designed by architect Teiji Suzuki, the building is recognized as a significant architectural landmark in Nagoya. After its restoration in 2018, THE CONDER HOUSE now features a grand chapel adorned with one of Nagoya's largest stained-glass installations, multiple banquet halls with distinct atmospheres, and a restaurant offering a fusion of Chinese and other Asian cuisines. The venue's harmonious blend of historical charm and contemporary design makes it a sought-after location for weddings and various events.
Hasshoukan
Established in 1925, Hasshoukan is a prestigious traditional Japanese inn (ryotei) situated in the serene hills of Yagoto, Nagoya. Originally built as a timber merchant's villa, it showcases the refined sukiya-style architecture characteristic of the Meiji period. The renowned "Miyuki-no-ma" room, designed by architect Sutemi Horiguchi, was constructed in 1950 to accommodate Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun during the Aichi National Athletic Meet. This room has since been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Set within a sprawling 4,000-tsubo (approximately 13,200 square meters) garden that reflects the beauty of each season, Hasshoukan offers guests an immersive experience of traditional Japanese culture and hospitality.
6. What you can do in Nagoya?
Amazing race at Osu Kannon Shopping Street
The "Amazing Race" event at Osu Kannon in Nagoya is an exhilarating team-based scavenger hunt that combines cultural exploration with interactive challenges. Inspired by the popular television series, this event transforms the historic Osu Kannon Temple and its vibrant surrounding shopping district into a dynamic racecourse.
Experience the spirit of the samurai at Kiyosu Castle
A historic fortress in Aichi Prefecture closely associated with the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga. This immersive activity offers visitors the chance to don authentic samurai armor and explore the castle's rich heritage.
About Kiyosu Castle
Originally constructed between 1394 and 1427, Kiyosu Castle played a pivotal role during Japan's Sengoku period. It served as a strategic base for Oda Nobunaga in his quest to unify the nation. Although the original structure was dismantled in the early 17th century, a faithful reconstruction was completed in 1989, now housing a museum with exhibits on samurai culture and artifacts.
Aichi Prefecture, with Nagoya at its heart, offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. For travelers seeking to explore beyond Japan's typical tourist spots, Aichi provides an enriching and budget-friendly alternative.
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