Nagoya Castle名古屋城

A world famous Edo-period castle is the pride of Nagoya. Shachihoko, golden orcas adorning the castle roof signify prosperity.

Nagoya Castle is almost in the center of Nagoya City, and is famous for 'shachihoko,' the golden orcas that adorn the roof of its castle tower. The castle was built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun of the Edo government, and florished as the residence of the Owari Tokugawas, the largest of the three Tokugawa houses. Much of the castle burnt in 1945 during the World War II air raids, but the tower was rebuilt in 1959 as a reinforced concrete building with seven stories above ground and a basement. Since then, the castle has continued to be a beautiful symbol of Nagoya.

The inside of the castle has been opened up as exhibition rooms, and you can see close-up items that tell the history of Nagoya, including objects related to the Owari Tokugawas. Meijo-koen Park, which was constructed around the castle, contains flowers that bloom in different seasons, and many people like to walk here. There are also many events that should not be missed, such as the Sakura-matsuri (cherry blossom festival) in spring, the summer festival at Nagoya Castle, and the chrysanthemum doll show.

The neighborhood to the east of Nagoya Castle has original 17th-century residences and warehouses. The scene around Nagoya Castle is one where the old and new blend harmoniously.