Are you thinking about visiting Nagoya, Japan? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Nagoya worth visiting?
Yes, it's worth visiting this city for two to three days because of the many great activities. Nagoya is a port city that has long been a manufacturing center for the country. There are many interesting museums as well as gambling parlors in town. There are also entertainment districts and several historical sights. Many tourists don't add Nagoya to their itinerary, but those who do will appreciate the food and entertainment scene that the city offers. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Time Magazine's World's Greatest Places in 2023.
Nagoya, Japan
Reasons to Visit Nagoya
Food
The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.
Museums
There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.
Nightlife
There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.
Shopping
You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.
Authenticity
Nagoya has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Nagoya worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Nagoya, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.
The weather in Nagoya is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 27°C (80°F). But it can get as warm as 31°C (87°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.
The activities of the city are numerous, and this is a great time of year to explore all of them. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways, as well as budget-friendly things to do, there's something for everyone. Famous landmarks, museums, tours, and more are all available. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse through museums, discover the big city activities, and enjoy an evening out.
Summer Weather in Nagoya
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 27°C (80°F) | 213 mm (8.4 in) |
| August | 28°C (83°F) | 145 mm (5.7 in) |
| September | 24°C (75°F) | 204 mm (8 in) |
Is Nagoya worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Nagoya. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F).
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums and the big city activities.
Autumn Weather in Nagoya
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 18°C (64°F) | 114 mm (4.5 in) |
| November | 12°C (54°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
| December | 7°C (45°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) |
Is Nagoya worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Nagoya can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 4°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Nagoya is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.
You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. This is a great time of year to browse the museums, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and dance the night away. Also, you can experience the big city activities.
Winter Weather in Nagoya
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 4°C (40°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
| February | 5°C (41°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
| March | 8°C (47°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) |
Is Nagoya worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Nagoya. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 14°C (58°F).
You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and enjoy the evening activities.
Spring Weather in Nagoya
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 14°C (58°F) | 152 mm (6 in) |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 157 mm (6.2 in) |
| June | 23°C (73°F) | 213 mm (8.4 in) |
Related
What is Nagoya most famous for?
Nagoya is most famous for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. People visit this impressive city for its great food. Also, it's known for museums, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as under-the-radar, under-rated, and often overlooked.
What is the most famous sight in Nagoya?
The most popular sight in Nagoya is the Nagoya Castle. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Nagoya on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Nagoya Castle and other attractions here.
How touristy is Nagoya? Is it a popular city to visit?
Nagoya is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Nagoya Highlight Tour guided by a friendly local: $106
- Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide: $139
- Experience Japanese calligraphy & tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya: $112
- Private All You Can Drink Sake Nagoya Nightlife Tour: $207
- Toyota Tour for Car lovers: $106
- Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Noritake Garden & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $112
- Nagoya Custom Half Day Tour: $119
- Shibori Tie-Dye Workshop and Arimatsu City Tour: $159
How long should I spend in Nagoya?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Nagoya is two to three days. Since Nagoya has a variety of activities such as dining, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Nagoya? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Nagoya?.
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