What is Nagoya Castle?

Nagoya Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic castles, located in the heart of Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. Originally built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu—the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate—it served as a strategic stronghold to secure control over central Japan. The castle became the seat of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa family, one of the most powerful in the Edo period.

The castle is instantly recognizable for its golden shachihoko—mythical tiger-headed fish—adorning the roof of the main keep (tenshu). These ornamental creatures not only symbolize protection from fire but have also become enduring symbols of Nagoya itself.

Although the original main tower was destroyed during WWII air raids, it was rebuilt in 1959 using concrete. Today, the castle complex includes the magnificently restored Honmaru Palace, known for its gold-trimmed fusuma paintings, intricate woodwork, and traditional Japanese architecture.

History and Cultural Significance

Nagoya Castle was commissioned by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1610 to solidify his control over the central region of Japan and guard the road between Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The construction was one of the largest architectural projects of the early Edo period and involved contributions from several feudal lords (daimyo), who were required to donate labor and materials—a tactic also used to weaken potential rivals.

The main keep (tenshu) was one of the largest of its kind and featured sophisticated defenses, stone walls, and a moat system that reflected the strategic priorities of the Tokugawa regime.

During the Meiji period, many castles in Japan were destroyed or repurposed, but Nagoya Castle survived until 1945, when it was heavily bombed in World War II. Most of the structures burned down, including the iconic tenshu. Fortunately, many artifacts and historical documents had already been removed for safekeeping.

In 1959, the main tower was reconstructed using concrete and modern materials. In recent years, however, the city of Nagoya has launched a long-term project to rebuild the castle using traditional wooden construction methods, aiming to restore its Edo-period authenticity.

The adjacent Honmaru Palace, formerly the residence and administrative center for the ruling family, was meticulously reconstructed using traditional techniques and materials. It reopened fully to the public in 2018 and now stands as a highlight of any visit.

Today, Nagoya Castle is both a symbol of local pride and a window into Japan’s feudal past, offering educational exhibits, beautiful gardens, and seasonal events such as cherry blossom festivals.

What to See at Nagoya Castle

Main Keep (Tenshu)

Although the current main tower is a concrete reconstruction built in 1959, it still dominates the skyline with its grand, five-tiered design. Visitors can walk around its base and admire the famous golden shachihoko—mythical tiger-headed fish ornaments perched on the rooftop. These are symbols of protection against fire and are one of Nagoya’s most recognizable icons.

⚠️ Note: As of 2025, entry to the main keep is closed due to ongoing reconstruction plans to rebuild it in traditional wooden form. However, you can still explore the surrounding grounds and view it from multiple angles.

Honmaru Palace

This stunning wooden reconstruction of the original palace opened fully in 2018 and is a must-see highlight. Inside, you’ll find:
• Lavishly decorated sliding doors (fusuma) with gold-leaf paintings of tigers, pine trees, and birds
• Tatami-mat rooms once used for official audiences, strategy meetings, and everyday life
• Authentic Edo-period architecture with historically accurate carpentry techniques
The experience gives you a vivid sense of life during the Tokugawa era.

Ninomaru Garden

A tranquil Japanese garden located on the eastern side of the castle grounds. This landscape garden features:
• Meandering paths
• Carefully pruned pines
• Seasonal flowers and koi ponds
In spring, it becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, with over 1,000 sakura trees creating a picturesque backdrop.

Stone Walls and Moats

The massive stone walls, constructed using the no-mortar (dry-stone) technique, are considered engineering marvels of their time. They curve gently outward to resist collapse—part of the castle’s defense strategy. The double moats further enhanced protection and add to the scenic beauty.

How to Get to Nagoya Castle

Location

Nagoya Castle is centrally located in Naka Ward, Nagoya City, making it easy to access by public transport or on foot from nearby areas.

Address

1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0031, Japan

By Subway

• From Nagoya Station:
Take the Sakuradori Line to Hisaya-odori Station, transfer to the Meijo Line, and get off at Shiyakusho Station (City Hall).
Use Exit 7 — the castle is just a 5-minute walk from there.

• From Sakae (downtown Nagoya):
Take the Meijo Line directly to Shiyakusho Station.

By Bus

• From Nagoya Station, city buses and sightseeing loop buses (like Me~guru) go directly to the castle.
Get off at the Nagoya Castle stop.

On Foot or by Bike

Nagoya Castle is within walking distance (about 30 minutes) or a short bike ride from major city hubs like Nagoya Station and Sakae.
Bike rentals are available nearby.
Tip: Download a local transit app (like NAVITIME or Google Maps) for real-time directions.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“The golden shachihoko on the roof was more impressive than I expected! I joined a guided tour and learned how Nagoya Castle was one of the most important castles during the Edo period. The reconstructed Honmaru Palace was stunning—especially the gold-leaf screens inside.”

“I visited during the cherry blossom season, and the entire park was glowing with pink. It was one of the most peaceful yet impressive places I visited in Japan. The contrast between the sturdy stone walls and delicate blossoms was unforgettable.”

Recommended Tours

・10-Day Great Japan Private Tour Package | Cherry Blossoms, Anime & Theme Park Tour
・10-Day Best of Japan Small Group Tour Package | Anime & Theme Park Wonderland

Q&A – Nagoya Castle Travel Tips

Visitor Info – Nagoya Castle

Official Website

https://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/en/

What is Ghibli Park?

Ghibli Park is a theme park dedicated to the magical world of Studio Ghibli, located within Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park near Nagoya. Unlike traditional amusement parks, there are no roller coasters or loud attractions—instead, the park invites you to step into the everyday beauty, wonder, and imagination that define Ghibli films.

Created in close collaboration with Studio Ghibli, the park brings scenes from beloved movies to life through carefully designed buildings, interactive exhibits, and immersive landscapes. Visitors can explore recreated sets, ride a Cat Bus, walk through Satsuki and Mei’s house, or peek into the worlds of Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, and more.

Ghibli Park isn’t about thrill rides—it’s about atmosphere. It’s a place for fans of all ages to feel the quiet magic and emotional depth that Ghibli stories are known for.

Main Park Areas & Attractions

Ghibli Park is divided into several themed areas, each based on a specific Studio Ghibli film or world. As of 2026, here are the five main sections:

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse (ジブリの大倉庫)

The heart of the park, this massive indoor facility is filled with exhibits, interactive displays, photo spots, and mini-theaters.

You can see real-life recreations from Spirited Away, Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, and more.

Highlights: The Cat Bus Room (for kids), No-Face’s train car, and food courts themed after Ghibli films.

Dondoko Forest (どんどこ森)

Based on My Neighbor Totoro, this area features a full-scale replica of Satsuki and Mei’s house from the movie, nestled in a quiet forest.

Tip: This area involves a bit of walking and feels like you’re exploring the countryside.

Hill of Youth (青春の丘)

This zone includes elements from Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns, including the antique shop and the Earth Shop.

It’s a nostalgic walk through 1990s Tokyo with touches of fantasy.

Mononoke Village (もののけの里)

Step into the wild and spiritual world of Princess Mononoke. You’ll find life-size Tatarigami (demon spirits), huts from Irontown, and hands-on crafts.

This section emphasizes environmental themes and ancient Japanese culture.

Valley of Witches (魔女の谷)

The newest and most elaborate zone, opened in 2024, it combines Howl’s Moving Castle and Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Studio Ghibli Films You’ll Recognize

Each area in Ghibli Park draws inspiration from iconic Studio Ghibli movies. Here’s a quick overview of the films you’ll encounter throughout the park:

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse

• Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し) Walk through Yubaba’s bathhouse, peek into Chihiro’s world, and spot No-Face waiting on a red bench.
• My Neighbor Totoro (となりのトトロ) See life-sized Totoro photo spots and explore Satsuki and Mei’s house.
• Castle in the Sky (天空の城ラピュタ) Wander through Laputa’s ruins and spot robots hidden among greenery.
• Arrietty (借りぐらしのアリエッティ) Step into a miniature world where everyday items become giant structures.

Hill of Youth

• Whisper of the Heart (耳をすませば) Visit the antique shop from the film and see the Baron figurine in real life.
• The Cat Returns (猫の恩返し) Some references and character designs appear in shared exhibition spaces.

Dondoko Forest

• My Neighbor Totoro The main highlight here is a forest walk that recreates the lush environment of Totoro’s world, complete with the “Dondoko-do” wooden playground.

Mononoke Village

• Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫) Step into Ashitaka’s world, complete with giant boar and wolf statues, and learn about ancient Japanese forest culture.

Valley of Witches

• Kiki’s Delivery Service (魔女の宅急便) Explore Kiki’s home and bakery, and even spot Jiji hiding among the props.
• Howl’s Moving Castle (ハウルの動く城) Discover a full-size replica of Howl’s castle and themed interiors.
• Earwig and the Witch (アーヤと魔女) Featured through minor references and newer interactive elements.

How to Get There

Ghibli Park is located in Aichi Expo Memorial Park (愛・地球博記念公園) in Nagakute, about 40 minutes from central Nagoya. Here’s how to get there:

From Nagoya Station

1. Take the Higashiyama Subway Line to Fujigaoka Station (approx. 30 min).
2. Transfer to the Linimo (maglev train) and get off at Aichi Expo Memorial Park Station (approx. 15 min).
3. Ghibli Park is a short walk from the station.
Total travel time: ~45 minutes
Tip: Use an IC card (e.g., Suica or Manaca) for smooth transfers.

By Car

Ghibli Park is about a 45-minute drive from Nagoya Station via the Nagoya-Seto Expressway. Paid parking is available inside Aichi Expo Park.
Parking tip: The closest lot is North Parking (北駐車場), but it can fill up early on weekends.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“I visited Ghibli Park with my daughter, and we both had tears in our eyes when we walked into the life-sized Catbus. It was like stepping into my childhood—and hers. Everything felt so real, from the recreated streets of Spirited Away to the cozy corners from Whisper of the Heart.”
— Family traveler from Singapore

“I traveled solo and spent the entire afternoon inside Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. The Howl’s Moving Castle room was my favorite—it had moving parts, lighting effects, and even real props. You don’t need to speak Japanese to enjoy it. It’s a dream for any Ghibli fan.”
— Solo visitor from France

Recommended Tours

・10-Day Great Japan Private Tour Package | Cherry Blossoms, Anime & Theme Park Tour
・10-Day Best of Japan Small Group Tour Package | Anime & Theme Park Wonderland

Q&A – Ghibli Park Travel Tips

Visitor Info – Ghibli Park

Location

Ghibli Park is located inside Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (also known as Moricoro Park) in Nagakute City, just east of Nagoya.

Opening Hours

• 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Weekdays)
• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Weekends & Holidays)
• Closed: Tuesdays (or the next weekday if Tuesday is a holiday)

Admission

• Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse: ¥2,000–¥3,500 (adult) / ¥1,000–¥1,750 (child)
• Other areas: ¥1,000–¥2,500 (per area)
• Full-access ticket (all 5 areas): ¥3,500–¥7,300

Prices vary by date and availability. Children under 3 enter free.

Official Website

https://ghibli-park.jp/en

Facilities

• Restrooms, lockers, cafes, and gift shops available
• Nursing rooms and stroller rental also provided

Accessibility

• Wheelchair-accessible paths throughout
• Some indoor exhibits may have limited space