Exploring Nagoya, Japan: A 3-Day Adventure

Nagoya, the fourth-largest city in Japan, is a vibrant destination with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions to explore. With three full days at your disposal, you can immerse yourself in the city's unique charm and discover some hidden gems beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

Local Sites

While the Nagoya Castle and TV Tower area are certainly worth a visit, here are some other local sites that you should consider exploring:

• Atsuta Jingu Shrine: This ancient Shinto shrine is one of the most revered in Japan and houses the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three imperial regalia of Japan.
• Tokugawa Art Museum: Housed in the former residence of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa family, this museum boasts an impressive collection of traditional Japanese art, including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy.
• Noritake Garden: This beautiful garden, located on the grounds of the Noritake ceramics company, features a traditional Japanese landscape with ponds, bridges, and a variety of seasonal flora.

Dining Experiences

Nagoya is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and you'll want to make sure to try some local specialties during your stay.

• Hitsumabushi: This iconic Nagoya dish consists of grilled eel served over rice in a lacquered box. One of the best places to try it is Hitsuichi, a popular restaurant renowned for their authentic hitsumabushi.
• Misokatsu: A unique twist on the classic tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), misokatsu is coated in a savory miso sauce. Head to Yabaton, a long-standing local favorite, to try this delicacy.
• Tebasaki: Nagoya-style chicken wings, known as "tebasaki," are a must-try snack. Meikun is a popular izakaya (Japanese pub) that serves some of the best tebasaki in town.

Daytrip Ideas

If you have time for a daytrip, consider visiting the following destinations near Nagoya:

• Takayama: This charming town in the Japanese Alps is known for its preserved Edo-period architecture, traditional crafts, and stunning natural surroundings. Take the Hida Wide View express train from Nagoya Station (approximately 2.5 hours).
• Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with thatched roofs. Combine a visit to Shi