Nagoya castle is a Japanese castle nesting in Nagoya, central Japan. At the time of Edo period, Nagoya was one of the most important castles in Japan. This castle has 5 levels and 7 stories. It is also called as Kinshachi-jo.
1.History
Nagoya Castle was founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1612. In 1610 Tokugawa Ieyasu ordered for the construction of Nagoya-jo to show the pride of the authority in Owari (Nagoya and vicinity).
Another reason for the popularity of Nagoya Castle is the 2 golden shachihoko that is placed on the top of its main keep. That is the reason behind its another name “Kinshachi-jo”. Kin stands for Gold whilst Shachi refers to the killer whale, which is a mythical creature that sits atop of the castles.
Information
- How to get here: http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/13_english/13_01_goriyou/index.html
2.General Information
Nagoya is a famous destination, especially for history geeks; it features the rich culture and history of Japan which fascinate the local and foreign tourist. There is a free English tour guide available upon registration. Private tour guides are accessible as well. The castle is open every day apart from December 29 – January 1.
Information
- Address: 1-1 Hommaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya 460-0031,Aichi Prefecture
- Price: ¥ 500 (Adult). Children are free of charge
- Opening hour: 9.00 – 16.30
- Group Ticket and Tour Guide Booking: http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/13_english/13_01_goriyou/index.html
- Website: http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/
3.Exhibition Guide
Each floor features different exhibits. On the basement floor, it features the replica of the Ogonsui Well. On the first floor, the important decorations, swords, and other accessories are presented. Whilst the second floor is open for special exhibits. The third floor, a complete sound and lighting effects of the typical day of the castle lord and its town people will be presented.
The fourth floor showcases the armour, helmets, swords, and other collection of Nagoya Castle. On the fifth floor, the full-set of the Golden Dolphin is displayed. The top floor will show off the view of the Nagoya Castle grounds and the downtown of Nagoya
Information
- More Information: http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/13_english/13_02_tenji/index.html
4.Seasonal Garden
The castle is surrounded by the stunning flowers and plants. These beautiful blossoms change from season to season.
In Spring, expect cherry blossoms, Wisteria, Camella and Peony. In Summer, Iris, Crape Myrtle, Plantain Lily and Hydrangea are blooming. While in Autumn, Confederate Rose, Japanese Quince and Crape Myrtle will smile at you all together. In Winter expect Japanese Witch Hazel, Winter Sweet and Japanese plum blooming.
Information
- More Information: http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/13_english/13_04_shiki/index.html
5.Current Construction
Unfortunately, since the Nagoya Castle has been affected by the bombing in the World War 2, the local government needs to do a lot of construction to rebuild the castle. The castle is almost done; visitors are starting to flood in. Despite that it’s not the original building, the reconstruction project is quite remarkable, because you can clearly see how impressive the job they did.
Have a good trip and travel!
