Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? 10 Things to Do and See in Nagoya 名古屋; Japan Road Trip

Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? 10 Things to Do and See in Nagoya 名古屋; Japan Road Trip

Hi everyone,
Welcome to another exciting episode of Gibbon Travelogue.

In this episode, we explore Nagoya, the largest city in central Japan and the capital of Aichi Prefecture.

Known as the industrial heart of Japan and home to global giants like Toyota, Nagoya offers much more than its modern skyline. It is a city where history, innovation, shopping, and culture come together.

Now, it’s time to dive into Nagoya itself.

🗓️ Day 1: Trains, Shopping & Illuminations 00:00

SCMaglev and Railway Park 01:41
We begin our journey at the SCMaglev and Railway Park, where we trace the evolution of Japan’s railways from its first line in 1872 to the futuristic maglev trains that will exceed 500 km/h. Highlights include historic locomotives and the iconic Series 0 Shinkansen.

Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima 04:22
Next, we head to Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima, one of Japan’s largest outlet malls with over 300 stores. After lunch at Jazz Dining, we spend the afternoon exploring the open-air shopping complex (and yes, we didn’t leave empty-handed).

Nabana no Sato 05:47
In the evening, we visit Nabana no Sato, where stunning winter illumination displays transform the botanical garden into a magical wonderland. We end the night with a relaxing foot spa and a delicious tonkatsu dinner.

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🏯 Day 2: History, Innovation & City Life

Nagoya Castle 07:56
Our day starts at Nagoya Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic feudal castles built by Tokugawa Ieyasu. While the main keep is under reconstruction, the beautifully restored Honmaru Palace offers a glimpse into the elegance of samurai-era architecture.

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology 11:07
We then visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, where we learn how Toyota evolved from textile machinery to becoming a global automotive leader.

Tsutaya Bookstore 13:26
Next stop is the stunning Tsutaya Bookstore at Aeon Mall Noritake Garden, a modern and Instagram-worthy space for book lovers.

Hisaya Odori Park 14:16
In the evening, we unwind at Hisaya Odori Park, enjoy the festive atmosphere of a Christmas market, and admire the nearby Nagoya TV Tower.

Oasis 21 15:06
We also explore Oasis 21, a futuristic complex known for its “Spaceship Aqua” glass roof.

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🌿 Day 3: Ghibli Magic

Ghibli Park 16:11
On our final day, we visit the highly anticipated Ghibli Park, a dream destination for fans of Studio Ghibli.

Located about 30–40 minutes from central Nagoya, the park features immersive environments inspired by films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle. Unlike traditional theme parks, Ghibli Park focuses on storytelling and atmosphere rather than rides.

We explore the Grand Warehouse, Mononoke Village, and the Valley of Witches with our O-Sanpo Day Pass. Despite limited access, the experience is magical, detailed, and unforgettable.

We wrap up our Nagoya adventure with a delicious wagyu dinner before heading back.

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🚅 Day 4: Nagoya Station – Shopping and Dining

Nagoya Station 21:36

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Love
Lilian & Gilbert
@gibbontravelogue