Gaze Up at the Golden Shachihoko and Tour the Splendid Honmaru Palace with Its Fusuma Paintings
About this spot
Built on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, this was the residence of the Owari Tokugawa family. The golden shachihoko adorning the main tower is known throughout the country as Nagoya's symbol. The main attraction is the Honmaru Palace, faithfully restored based on historical records. In the all-cypress structure, Kano school fusuma paintings and ornamental metal fittings gleam, allowing visitors to experience the dignity of the feudal lord directly. Walking among the massive stone said to have been transported by Kato Kiyomasa (Kiyomasa-ishi) and seeking out the clan marks carved into the stonework throughout reveals the castle-building history in three dimensions. The spacious castle grounds feature beautiful seasonal flowers, and for history enthusiasts, two hours pass in a flash.
Tips
Admission is 500 yen for adults and includes entry to Honmaru Palace. The opening status of the interior of the main tower may change, so if interested, check official information beforehand. The Honmaru Palace is least crowded first thing in the morning, and you can enter without waiting in line at the entrance. The castle grounds have many gravel paths, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It's immediately accessible from Nagoyajo Station on the Meijo Subway Line.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 2 hours. The Honmaru Palace is least crowded in the early morning around 9 AM.
Access & map
1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture 〒460-0031
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