Aichi

Nagoya is Japan's fourth-largest city and the capital of Aichi Prefecture, located in the Chubu region between Tokyo and Osaka. Best known as a manufacturing and automotive powerhouse, it combines a modern commercial core with castles, shrines and one of Japan's most distinctive local food cultures.

The city's history is reflected in landmarks such as Nagoya Castle, rebuilt with its famous golden shachihoko ornaments, and Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines and the traditional home of the sacred sword Kusanagi. Museums like the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and the Nagoya City Science Museum highlight the region's industrial heritage and scientific culture.

Sakae is the main shopping and entertainment district, centred on the Mirai Tower, Hisaya Odori Park and the Oasis 21 complex, while the Osu district is known for Osu Kannon temple and a lively covered shopping arcade full of street food and independent shops. Around Nagoya Station, high-rise offices, department stores and hotels form the city's transport and business hub.

Nagoya's economy is closely tied to Toyota and the wider automotive and manufacturing industry, and the city hosts major trade fairs and conferences. The food scene is built around Nagoya meshi, including miso katsu, hitsumabushi grilled eel, tebasaki chicken wings and the local morning service tradition of toast and coffee.

For travellers, Nagoya offers a convenient gateway to the Chubu region, served by Chubu Centrair International Airport and positioned on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. Its mix of history, industry, family attractions and regional cuisine makes it appealing for both leisure visitors and business travellers.