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.

The landmarks of this metropolis that prospered as a key trade route junction are the high-rise station building and castle.

Nagoya has prospered as a key junction for traffic between Edo (Tokyo) and Osaka for the past 400 years. The city's symbol, Nagoya Castle, was destroyed in a World War II air raid, and the present castle is a modern reproduction; however, it was constructed in a manner that makes it easy to understand the life of the samurai warriors. The Golden Shachihoko (fish-shaped ornaments) set at the roof ridges of the castle are also a symbol of Nagoya. A Shachi is an imaginary fish-like creature believed to ward off fire.

In contrast, the Nagoya station building, the JR Central Tower, was created as a new landmark. Standing 245 meters high, it is the tallest station building in Japan. Various facilities are incorporated, including a department store, restaurants, and hotels. During the Christmas season, many people come to view the beautiful lights. Around the station, there has been a great deal of redevelopment, such as Midland Square, the Nagoya Lucent Tower, and other department stores, hotels, and office buildings stand side-by-side, all connected by a huge underground shopping arcade.

A 5-minute subway ride from the station brings you to Sakae, the city's major downtown area. In the center of town filled with department stores is OASIS21, an environmentally friendly three-dimensional park, where many exciting events are held.

Popular souvenirs from Nagoya include flat noodles called 'Kishimen,' a Japanese confectionery called 'Uiro' (cake made from rice powder), and ceramics. Noritake-no-Mori (Noritake Garden), a 15-minute walk from Nagoya Station, is a comprehensive ceramics museum opened by Noritake (a tableware manufacturer) on the premises of its headquarters. You can enjoy shopping for tableware, experience ceramic painting, and appreciate "Old Noritake" masterpieces in the expansive verdant grounds.