nagoya travel requirements

The First-Timer’s Nagoya Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Nagoya travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

I was on a press trip to Japan’s Chubu region a couple of years ago and one of our guides said that “there’s nothing in Nagoya”. I understood what she meant, though I didn’t agree with her.

Before my first trip to Nagoya, I wasn’t overly enthusiastic about visiting this metropolis in Japan’s central Chubu region. It seemed more urbanized than other Japanese cities and lacked the traditional charm I had come to love from cities like Kyoto and Kanazawa.

When people visit Japan, especially first-timers, they tend to look for temples, kimonos, and torii gates. Being a highly urbanized city, Nagoya doesn’t have as much of that which is probably why our guide said what she did. But that hardly means there’s nothing in Nagoya.

Nagoya is the birthplace of Toyota. The Toyota Techno Museum is one of the best museums I’ve ever visited in my life and I’m not even a car enthusiast. Nagoya is also the administrative headquarters of JR Central and home to the interesting SCMAGLEV Railway Park and Museum, which conveniently, is just a short walk from Legoland.

Best of all, Nagoya is home to one of the best regional cuisines in Japan. My Japanese friend told me that it’s one of three cities that many local Japanese visit when they travel for food, the other two being Fukuoka and Hiroshima . The regional food in Nagoya is so good that they even have a term for it – Nagoya meshi .

If you like trains, automobiles, and amazing Japanese food, then you’ll find that there’s much to love about Nagoya. This detailed Nagoya travel guide will tell you all you need to know to plan your trip.

VISIT NAGOYA QUICK LINKS

This travel guide to Nagoya is long. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels around Nagoya Station, the most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to the city.

• Luxury: The Tower Hotel Nagoya
• Midrange: Hotel Vista Nagoya Nishiki
• Budget: Choukou Hotel
• Sightseeing Tour: Private Full-Day City Tour
• Food Tour: Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour
• Theme Park: LEGOLAND® Japan Resort 1 Day Passport

OTHER SERVICES

• Visa Services
• Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
• Airport Transfers
• Japan Rail Pass
• Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Nagoya travel restrictions.

Due to the current global situation, Nagoya travel guidelines have been changing frequently. Our partners at Booking.com created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions and advisories around the globe.

Before planning a trip to Nagoya, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Japan. If you do decide to visit Nagoya, then it’s highly recommended that you get travel insurance with COVID coverage.

Depending on what type of passport you carry, you may need to secure a visa and other travel documents to enter Japan. Check out iVisa.com for a list of requirements and to apply for a visa (if necessary).

NAGOYA AT A GLANCE

Nagoya is the capital of Aichi prefecture and the largest city in Japan’s central Chubu region. Like Tokyo and  Osaka , it’s one of the country’s major ports and transportation hubs. It’s home to one of Japan’s biggest international airports and remains an important center for the automotive, aviation, and ceramic industries.

In spite of Nagoya’s highly industrialized present, it’s interesting to note that the region is regarded as the center for samurai and ninja culture in Japan. It’s the birthplace of Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu – the three samurai feudal lords and national heroes credited for unifying the country in the 16th century. During the early Edo period, it’s estimated that 70% of the nation’s daimyo warlords were from Nagoya and its surrounding areas.

In spite of its history and key role in driving the country’s economy, Nagoya has a reputation for being one of Japan’s most boring cities. I don’t know how it got that reputation but if you travel for food like we do, then Nagoya meshi will give you plenty to be excited about. It’s known for many regional dishes and ingredients, none more important (and delicious) perhaps than mame or red miso.

BEST TIME TO VISIT NAGOYA

Nagoya’s climate is similar to nearby destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. It’s pretty much a year-round destination though spring and fall are typically the best times to visit Nagoya. The weather is mild and you’ll get a chance to experience the cherry blossoms in spring and the fall colors of autumn.

MAR-MAY: Weather-wise, March-April is one of the best times to visit Nagoya. Days are mostly dry and sunny with temperatures hovering around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Cherry blossoms in Nagoya are typically in full bloom around the end of March to early April. Nagoya isn’t as popular as Kyoto or Tokyo and may be the more pleasant option for viewing the cherry blossoms in spring. If you don’t like crowds, then be sure to avoid Golden Week (end of April – early May) which is peak season for domestic travel in Japan.

JUN-AUG: Summers in Nagoya are hot and humid. It’s the rainiest time of the year and may not be the most pleasant time to visit Nagoya.

SEPT-NOV: October-November is another great time to visit Nagoya. The weather is mild with temperatures hovering around 13-18°C (55-64°F). If you’d like to experience the colors of autumn, then it’s best to go in late November. September is still hot and rainy in Nagoya and perhaps not the best time to go.

DEC-FEB: Winters are cold in Nagoya but not cold enough to see snow. If you enjoy winter sports and don’t mind colder weather, then Nagoya makes for a good base to do skiing and snowboarding trips. You’ll find multiple ski resorts within two hours of the city.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Nagoya

Check out climatestotravel.com for more on Nagoya’s weather. For your convenience, I’ve created the average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are indicated in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall

TRAVELING TO NAGOYA

There are many ways to get to Nagoya from where you are. You can check Bookaway or use the widget below to find route options available to you.

From Chubu Centrair International Airport

People flying into Nagoya will arrive at the Chubu Centrair International Airport. There are several ways to get to downtown Nagoya from the airport.

BY TRAIN: This is the fastest and most convenient way of getting to the city from the airport. The Meitetsu Railway Company offers direct services from Chubu Airport to Meitetsu Nagoya Station. The fastest is the μ Sky Limited Express. It’ll get you into the city in about 28 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook .

BY BUS: You can also travel by bus from the airport to the Meitetsu Bus Center which is located right next to Nagoya Station. The hourly Centrair Limousine Bus service will get you into the city in around 88 minutes. There are 14 roundtrips everyday and you can purchase your tickets on the spot.

BY TAXI: Traveling by taxi is convenient but expensive. The fare for a medium-sized taxi between the airport and Nagoya Station will cost you around JPY 15,000.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: Like taxis, going by private transfer is convenient but expensive. Prices vary depending on where you’re going and the size of your group. You can check for rates and book a private transfer on Klook or Get Your Guide .

From Other Parts of Japan

Although you can fly into Chubu Airport, many people will already be in Japan and will probably take a train to Nagoya. If that’s the case, then you can check hyperdia.com for train routes and schedules.

If you’ll be doing a multi-city tour across Japan, then you may be interested in purchasing a JR Pass. It’ll give you unlimited use of all JR trains for the duration of your pass. You can purchase 7-, 14-, or 21-day JR passes through Klook or Japan Rail Pass .

If you’re planning on exploring just the central Chubu region, then you may be interested in getting the Takayama-Hokuriku Pass instead. It’ll give you unlimited travel between cities within the Chubu region (Nagoya, Hida Takayama, Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, etc.) for five consecutive days.

Check out my article on the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass for more information. You can purchase the pass on Klook . You can also check out our 5-day Chubu itinerary to help you plan your trip.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

The unit of currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY) .

BANKS / POST OFFICES: Banks and post offices have traditionally been the most reliable places to exchange currency in Japan. However, the process is slow and requires some paperwork. I’ve exchanged currency at a few banks in Japan and the process can take up to half an hour.

KINKEN SHOPS: Kinken shops are small stores that buy and sell unused event tickets. Some also exchange currency. I exchanged currency at a kinken shop outside Shinjuku Station in Tokyo and got excellent rates. In Nagoya, you should be able to find kinken shops outside major metro stations like Nagoya Station.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE MACHINES: I haven’t seen them very often but I did exchange currency through a machine in Nagasaki once. It was super easy. Just insert your foreign currency and out comes the JPY equivalent. You may be able to find them at popular tourist and shopping areas in Nagoya.

ATM MACHINES: This is our preferred method of exchanging currency in Japan. Rates are often comparable and it saves us from the trouble of having to bring too much foreign currency into Japan. I suggest letting your bank know that you plan on using your ATM card abroad so you don’t run into any problems. In my experience, my card works best at convenience store and post office ATMs in Japan.

TIP: When withdrawing local currency from an ATM, some machines may ask you if you’d like to proceed “with or without conversion”. NEVER choose “with conversion” because doing so will authorize the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion for you, usually at highly unfavorable exchange rates. You can refer to this article on Medium for more information.

BEST AREAS TO STAY IN NAGOYA

There are a few good areas for travelers to stay in Nagoya. I’ve created the color-coded map below to help you understand where these suggested neighborhoods are. Click on the link for a live version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

RED – Around Nagoya Station BLUE – Sakae GREEN – Osu PURPLE – Kanayama

AROUND NAGOYA STATION

If it’s your first time in Nagoya, then it’s best to stay around Nagoya Station. It’s a busy commercial area in the heart of the city with plenty of restaurants, izakayas, cafes, and shopping. It’ll make it easy for you to get around as well.

I stayed at Nagoyaeki Access Hotel which is a clean and modern 2-star hotel located just a short walk from Nagoya Station.  My room had a desk and a television and was bigger than the average business hotel room in Japan, which I appreciated. There are plenty of convenience stores and restaurants around the hotel as well.

You can book a room at Nagoyaeki Access Hotel through booking.com or Agoda . If you’d like to stay in the neighborhood but don’t think this is the right hotel for you, then you can click on these links for alternate listings : booking.com or Agoda . Check out some of the top-rated hotels around Nagoya Station:

Sakae refers to the area just east of Nagoya Station. It’s the city’s main entertainment district and home to many local restaurants and izakayas. If you want access to local food and don’t want to be too close to the train station, then Sakae is a good place to consider. You can find a hotel in Sakae through booking.com or Agoda . Here are some of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• Luxury: Nagoya Tokyu Hotel
• Midrange: Vessel Inn Sakae Ekimae
• Budget: Hotel Mystays Nagoya Nishiki

Just south of Sakae is Osu, another area that offers plenty of entertainment, food, and shopping options in Nagoya. It features a main shopping street and is close to Osu Shopping Arcade and Osu Kannon temple , one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. You can search for a hotel room in Osu on booking.com . Check out some of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• Luxury: GRAND BASE Osu
• Midrange: Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hane no Yu
• Budget: Trip & Sleep Hostel

Kanayama refers to the area just north of Kanayama Station. I didn’t have time to explore this area but I read that it’s known for its plethora of small local restaurants, many of which are tucked away in back alleys. If you’d prefer to stay in an area with interesting local food, then Kanayama may be a good place to consider. It’ll put you closer to popular tourist attractions like Atsuta Shrine and Shirotori Garden as well.

You can book a room in Kanayama through booking.com or Agoda . Check out some of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• Luxury: Nagoya Kanayama Hotel
• Midrange: ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Grand Court Nagoya, an IHG Hotel
• Budget: Toyoko Inn Nagoya Kanayama

You can also book hotels and homestays in Nagoya using the handy map below.

PLACES TO VISIT IN NAGOYA

Contrary to what some people may say, there’s actually quite a lot to do in Nagoya. It may not have as many cultural attractions but there’s plenty to see and do for first-time visitors. Listed below are the city’s top attractions but click on the link for more suggestions on what to do in Nagoya .

1. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Aside from the food, visiting this museum was my favorite thing to do in Nagoya. Like many Asians, I grew up with Toyotas so visiting the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, or Toyota Techno Museum for short, was special for me.

It’s a huge museum that traces the history of the Toyota company all the way back to its roots as an automatic loom manufacturer. There’s much to see with many interactive exhibits so visiting this museum will keep you busy for at least 2-3 hours.

The Toyota Techno Museum is one of three Toyota-related museums you can visit in Nagoya. The other two are the  Toyota Kaikan Museum  and the  Toyota Automobile Museum , both of which are about an hour away from central Nagoya. The Tyoota Techno Museum is the most accessible being just one stop away on the metro from Nagoya Station.

Suggested Length of Visit: 2-3 hrs Admission: JPY 500 Operating Hours: 9:30AM-5PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays) Nearest MRT Station: Sako station

2. Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine is one of Japan’s most important shrines. It was built sometime between 71 and 130 AD to house the Kusanagi no Tsurugi, an ancient sword that’s considered one of the  Three Sacred Treasures of Japan .

Atsuta Shrine is located in a large forested area of about 200,000 square meters (2,153,000 sq ft). It features many walking trails and smaller shrines so it makes for a quiet green getaway from the steel and concrete of urban Nagoya.

Suggested Length of Visit: 1 hr Admission: FREE Operating Hours: 24 hrs Nearest MRT Station: Jingu-Mae Station

3. Shirotori Garden

Located less than a kilometer from Atsuta Shrine, Shirotori Garden is another oasis in Nagoya. It’s a Japanese landscaped garden occupying an area of about four hectares.

I’ve been to  Shukkei-en in Hiroshima ,  Koishikawa Korakuen in Tokyo , and Kenroku-en in Kanazawa and I always enjoy sitting on a bench and taking in the atmosphere of these landscaped gardens. They’re so beautiful. Like all Japanese gardens, Shirotori Garden’s features are meant to represent Japan’s landscape in miniature.

Photo by rolling rock via Shutterstock

Suggested Length of Visit: 1 hr Admission: JPY 300 Operating Hours: 9AM-5PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays) Nearest MRT Station: Atsuta Station

4. SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

If you like trains, then you need to visit SCMAGLEV and Railway Park. It’s the museum of Central Japan Railways (more commonly known as JR Central) and features over three dozen trains – from historic steam locomotives to the shinkansen to the most modern magnetic levitating trains. SCMaglev is short for superconducting maglev train – the fastest rail vehicle ever built.

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is located near the same metro station as Legoland, so people traveling with kids may have time to visit both on the same day.

Suggested Length of Visit: 2 hrs Admission: JPY 1,000 Operating Hours: 10AM-5:30PM, daily Nearest MRT Station: Kinjofuto station

5. Osu Kannon

Osu Kannon is a popular Buddhist temple known for a large wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It was carved by Kobo Daishi who was an important figure in Japanese Buddhism. The temple is also home to Shinpukuji Library which houses several of Japan’s national treasures and important cultural properties.

People visiting Osu Kannon may want to check out the Osu Shopping Arcade as well. Located right next to the temple, it’s a series of covered shopping streets with over 400 restaurants and shops, many of which specialize in electronics, anime, and cosplay. It’s been likened to the Akihabara district in Tokyo.

Photo by David Quixley via Shutterstock

Suggested Length of Visit: 30 mins Admission: FREE Operating Hours: 24 hrs Nearest MRT Station: Osukan-non station

THINGS TO DO IN NAGOYA

1. go on a food tour.

What better way to experience Nagoya meshi than by going on a food tour? I enjoy discovering and visiting restaurants on my own, but if you really want to learn about the local food, then you may be interested in going on a guided tour. Check out byFood for a list of food tours in Nagoya.

Photo by Gumpanat via Shutterstock

2. Visit a Maid Cafe

Have you heard of Japan’s maid cafes? They’re a popular type of cosplay restaurant where the servers are dressed up as maids and treat their customers like masters and mistresses. They’re just another odd but fun attraction that makes Japan the uniquely quirky destination that it is.

There appears to be a few maid cafes to choose from in the Osu area but the Maidreamin chain is one of the most popular. You can get meal set vouchers to Maidreamin Nagoya in advance through Klook .

Photo by WPixz via Shutterstock

3. Go Shopping at Don Quijote

If you like bargain shopping, then you’re going to love Don Quijote (Donki for short). It’s a popular chain of discount shops with dozens of outlets throughout the country. Like Daiso, you can find anything and everything at a Don Quijote. They sell things like snacks, electronics, cosmetics, socks, cellphone cases, household items, and souvenirs.

The biggest Don Quijote branches are comprised of multiple floors and feel almost like mini department stores. You can check the Don Quijote website for a list of branches in Nagoya.

DAY TRIPS FROM NAGOYA

Nagoya is centrally located so there are a few day trips you can make from the city. Listed below are some of the most popular and realistic.

1. Nabana no Sato

If you visit Nagoya sometime between mid-October to early May, then you may want to spend the day at Nabana no Sato. Located less than a hour away in Kuwana City, it’s a botanical garden that’s home to one of the biggest illumination displays in Japan. It features seven installations with over 8 million LED lights, including two tunnels of light each measuring over 100 meters (328 ft) long.

Nabana no Sato is part of Nagashima Resort which is also home to Nagashima Spa Land amusement park , a water park, a hot spring complex, and an outlet shopping mall. There’s a lot to do there so you might want to make a whole day of it.

Nagashima Resort and Nabana no Sato are easy enough to get to on your own, but if you’d like to go on an organized tour, then you can book one through Klook .

Photo by Phubet Juntarungsee via Shutterstock

Travel Time: Around 50 mins

2. Kiso Valley

Kiso Valley refers to an area that runs alongside the Central Alps mountains in Nagano. It’s home to an ancient and historically important trade route known as the Kisoji. During the Edo period, the Kisoji was combined with other routes to form the Nakasendo – a 500 km path that served as one of two means of transport between Kyoto and Edo.

To provide rest, food, and accommodations to merchants traveling along the Nakasendo, post towns like Magome, Tsumago, and Narai were developed every few kilometers in the Kiso Valley. Today, a few of these post towns have been preserved to look exactly like they did during the days of the Nakasendo.

The towns in the Kiso Valley are about 1.5-2 hrs northeast of Nagoya. You can go there on your own using public transportation.

“ Magome, Kiso Valley ” by DavideGorla , used under CC BY 2.0 / Processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

Travel Time: Around 1.5-2 hrs

3. Hida Takayama

Takayama is a small city in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu prefecture. It gained prominence during the feudal ages for its high-quality timber and surplus of skilled carpenters. Today, it’s known for its beautifully preserved old town and for being home to one of Japan’s best festivals – the Takayama Festival.

Hida Takayama is about 2.5 hours north of Nagoya. It’s doable though a bit far for a day trip, so if you’d feel more comfortable going on an organized tour, then you can book one through Klook ( option 1 | option 2 ). Shirakawa-go is about an hour away from Takayama so people wanting to visit both destinations from Nagoya can book a combined tour ( option 1 | option 2 ).

Travel Time: Around 2.5 hrs

4. Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a village located in the remote Shogawa River Valley in Gifu prefecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and their distinct slanted thatched gable roofs. The village can be covered in up to two meters of snow so the roofs are built at a steep angle to allow heavy snow to easily fall off in winter.

Shirakawa-go is beautiful at any time of the year though it’s best visited in winter when it’s covered in a thick blanket of snow. The direct Gifu Bus can get you to Shirakawa-go from Nagoya in about three hours but you can also visit on a guided tour. Klook offers tours that take you to both Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama ( option 1 | option 2 ).

Travel Time: Around 3 hrs

JAPANESE FOOD GUIDE

I love Japanese food. It’s my favorite cuisine in the world and a big reason why we love visiting Japan. If you enjoy Japanese food as much as we do, then check out our Japanese food guide and Japanese dessert guide for a list of the best and most interesting dishes to try in Japan.

WHERE TO EAT IN NAGOYA

As described, Nagoya is known for its food. There are many delicious things to try in the city but some of the most well-known Nagoya meshi dishes include miso katsu, hitsumabushi, kishimen, tenmusu, and doteni. Check out these restaurants to try some of the best examples of these dishes.

Nagoya is known for its red miso. If you could try just one dish in Nagoya, one dish to represent Nagoya meshi, then it should probably be miso katsu. It’s a regional version of tonkatsu or deep-fried breaded pork cutlet drenched in a thick rich miso sauce. I’ve always been lukewarm about tonkatsu but I’m a big fan of miso katsu. It’s so good.

You can have miso katsu anywhere in Nagoya but one of the best places to try it is Yabaton. They use Hatcho miso, the best type of red miso, and make their pork cutlets with Kurobuta pork, a breed of black pig from Kagoshima that’s often referred to as the “Kobe beef of pork”.

I went to the main branch but Yabaton has many outlets throughout Nagoya. You can check their website to find an outlet near you.

If you like unagi, then you’re going to love hitsumabushi. It’s a type of barbecued eel dish that’s a specialty of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture.

Hitsumabushi is similar to unadon or unajyu but what makes it different is how it’s eaten. Served with a few condiments like wasabi, nori, grated radish, and Japanese pepper, it’s meant to be consumed in three stages – the first stage on its own with rice, the second with the condiments, and the third with some dashi poured into your bowl.

It’s a unique and interesting way of eating eel that may not be as familiar to people as unagi donburi.

Hitsumabushi is delicious but it’s also pricey. The smallest portion at the best restaurants will set you back at least JPY 3,500. If you want the best, then Atsuta Horaiken is a popular choice.

For a more affordable but still excellent option, then head over to Maruya . At the time of my visit, their smallest portion started at just JPY 2,500. Their main branch is conveniently located inside Nagoya Station.

3. Nadai Kishimen Sumiyoshi

Kishimen is a type of broad and flat udon noodle that’s a specialty of Nagoya. It can be served hot or cold and seasoned with salt, soy sauce, miso, or curry. The most traditional version of kishimen appears to be served in hot broth and topped with steamed fish cakes, deep-fried tofu, green onion, spinach, and bonito flakes.

Kishimen is a common Nagoya comfort food that can be enjoyed anywhere in the city. I tried it at Nadai Kishimen Sumiyoshi while waiting for my train. It’s located on the platform between tracks 10 and 11 at JR Nagoya Station.

4. Tenmusu Senju

Tenmusu is a type of bite-sized snack made with a rice ball and a chunk of ebi tempura wrapped in nori. It was invented in Mie prefecture but is now considered a Nagoya dish.

You can enjoy tenmusu on its own or as part of a bento box. I got this takeaway pack of six from  Ganso Tenmusu Senju , the restaurant credited for inventing the dish.

The original branch of Ganso Tenmusu Senju is located in Tsu City in Mie, but they’ve since opened a few branches in Nagoya as well. Pictured below is their main Nagoya branch in Osu.

5. ちょいのみ酒場 せんて 名駅西口本店

I read there were many good izakayas around Nagoya Station so I randomly walked into this one. It was a good choice because aside from the usual kushiyaki/yakitori skewers, they also had the two dishes I was looking for – doteni and tebasaki karaage.

Doteni refers to a dish made with beef tendon, innards, and daikon radish simmered in Hatcho miso sauce, while tebasaki karaage refers to Japanese deep-fried chicken wings. Both are staple izakaya dishes and something you need to try in Nagoya.

I don’t know its English name but ちょいのみ酒場 せんて 名駅西口本店 is located across the street from Nagoya Station. If you can’t find it, then there are plenty of other izakayas to choose from just outside the station.

POINTS OF INTEREST IN NAGOYA

To help you understand where everything is, I’ve pinned most of the places recommended in this Nagoya travel guide on a map. Click on the link for a live version of the map .

HOW TO GET AROUND IN NAGOYA

Like any big city in Japan, getting around Nagoya by public transportation is easy. It’s serviced by multiple railway companies and six subway lines, along with a network of bus lines. If you navigate with Google Maps ( iOS / Android ), then you should have little problem getting around.

Depending on how long you’ll be staying in Nagoya and Japan, then it may be a good idea to get a transport pass, especially if you plan on using public transportation a lot. The many different options for tourist passes in Japan can often be confusing so I’ve listed down the most useful Nagoya transport passes below.

1-Day Subway Pass

The 1-day subway pass will give you unlimited rides on Nagoya’s metro system for JPY 760. If you plan on using the subway a lot on one calendar day and don’t intend to use the bus, then this is the right pass to get. You can purchase these from metro station vending machines and ticket windows.

1-Day Subway & Bus Pass

The 1-day subway and bus pass costs JPY 870 and will give you unlimited access to Nagoya’s metro and bus lines, including the Meguru Loop Bus. If you plan on doing most of your sightseeing in one day, then this is a good pass to consider. You can purchase these at any metro station or on the bus.

Meguru Loop Bus 1-Day Pass

I didn’t use the Meguru Loop Bus but it’s another convenient way for tourists to see many of Nagoya’s major attractions. The bus starts at Nagoya Station and will take you to the following stops:

• Toyota Techno Museum
• Noritake Garden
• Nagoya Castle
• Tokugawaen, Tokugawa Art Museum, Hosa Library
• Cultural Path, Futaba Museum
• Nagoya City Archives South
• Nagoya TV Tower
• Hirokoji-Sakae
• Hirokoji-Fushimi

The Meguru Loop Bus costs JPY 210 per ride, but the 1-day pass will give you unlimited rides for just JPY 500 along with discounts to many of Nagoya’s tourist attractions. You can purchase the 1-day pass on any Meguru bus or at purchase locations throughout the city.

It’s important to note that the Meguru Loop Bus only operates from Tuesday to Sunday. It runs every 20-30 minutes on weekends and every 30-60 minutes on weekdays.

Manaca / Toica IC Cards

Manaca and Toica IC Cards are stored value cards similar to Osaka’s ICOCA and Tokyo’s Suica and Pasmo IC Cards. They can be used on trains, buses, ferries, and trams not just in Nagoya, but in many cities throughout Japan. On a previous trip, I purchased a Suica IC Card in Tokyo and used it in other cities like Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka . The Manaca and Toica IC Cards will allow you to do the same.

IC Cards won’t give you a discount on fares but they’ll save you from the trouble of having to buy single journey tickets every time. Personally, I do a lot of walking and can rarely justify getting a 1-day pass so IC Cards are my preferred transport cards in Japan.

When your balance runs low, you can top them up at machines found in every metro station. You can even use them to pay for items at convenience stores. They’re super convenient and a good card to have if you plan on visiting mulitple cities in Japan. Click on the link for more information on Japan’s IC Cards .

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / NAGOYA ITINERARY

If you’re visiting Nagoya just to see its top tourist attractions, then two full days is enough. But if you have a keen interest in food and/or cars and want to visit all three Toyota museums, then aim for at least three days. Here’s a sample 2D/2N Nagoya itinerary to help you plan your trip.

NAGOYA TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

If you’re obsessive like me and enjoy planning out every minute of your itinerary, then you’re going to enjoy Sygic Travel . It’s a free trip planning app that allows me to pin all points of interest on a map so I can create as efficient an itinerary as possible. You can download it for free on iOS and Android .

2. Stay Connected

Having uninterrupted access to the internet is so important these days, especially when you’re in a foreign country with a language barrier like Japan. You’ll need it to do research, translate signs, and navigate its efficient but often very confusing rail system.

You can stay connected in Japan by renting a pocket wifi device or buying a sim card. We prefer pocket wifi devices because we find them easier to use, but either is fine. You can arrange for them through Klook ( pocket wifi | sim card ) or Get Your Guide .

3. Bookmark Hyperdia or Get the App on your Mobile Device

Hyperdia (and Google Maps) will be your new best friend in Japan. You’ll need it to make sense of Japan’s highly efficient but often confounding railway system. Not only will it give you precise train arrival and departure times, but it will tell you exactly how to get from one platform to the next. It makes commuting so much easier so be sure to download the app or bookmark the website on your mobile device.

WEBSITE: hyperdia.com

4. Check for Nagoya Travel Deals

There are many online marketplaces that sell travel deals to different destinations around the world. For Japan, one of my favorites is Get Your Guide. Before becoming a partner, I was a customer for many years and can vouch for them 100%.

Even if I don’t buy anything before a trip, it’s always fun going through their sites just to see what’s available. I often learn about attractions and activities that I wouldn’t have known about otherwise. Click on the link for a list of Nagoya travel deals on Get Your Guide .

5. Get Travel Insurance

The decision to get travel insurance is something we deliberate on before every trip. If all we’ll be doing is spending a couple of days eating and shopping in a city like Singapore , then we may not feel the need for it. But if we plan on doing anything physical that could get us injured, then we’ll definitely pick up a policy.

When we do feel the need for insurance, we always get it from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re both popular travel insurance companies used by many long-term travelers. Follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Get 5% off on Heymondo when using our link.

7. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Japan has Type A or Type B electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 100V and the standard frequency is 50/60Hz.

8. Learn Basic Japanese Etiquette

Japan is unique. It’s a country with many unwritten rules so it’s easy to commit a cultural faux pas without even realizing it. You wouldn’t want to offend anyone so I suggest checking out this overview on Japanese etiquette for tourists before your trip.

I’m not an expert on Nagoya but I do hope you find this guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I’ve learned from my trips. If you have any questions or suggestions, then please let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have an amazing time in Nagoya!

These are just some of the things we brought with us to Nagoya. See what’s in our backpack for a complete list of our travel gear. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon and other affiliate links.)

This Nagoya travel guide contains affiliate links, through which we’ll earn a small commission if you make a booking or purchase at no additional cost to you. As always, we only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and can personally vouch for. We really appreciate your support as it helps us make more of these free travel guides. Arigato gozaimasu!

Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Moka Sakurai

Wednesday 22nd of February 2023

Hello! I am Moka the local tour guide in Nagoya and I read your article "the first timer's Nagoya travel guide 2023" and it is quite nice and I like it very much.

Now I am providing Custom Nagoya private tours such as Nagoya Highlight Tour for Nagoya first timers and it is very popular on TripAdvisor etc. If you could introduce my website Nagoya Tours on your articals, I would very appreciate it.

Wednesday 18th of October 2023

@Angelica, Thank you! It’s Nagoya Tours (https://nagoya-tours.com/) It’s a private Nagoya tour guided by professional local guides.

Sunday 24th of September 2023

@Moka Sakurai, name of your website. Visiting Nagoya soon

We offter fun field tours and activities in Chubu region

Nagoya travel guide.

• Entering Japan

1. A travel agency with a long history

When you visit Japan from overseas for travel purposes you will need a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay. In the case of short stays, you do not need a visa if you meet certain prescribed conditions. Please keep up to date with the latest information as procedure requirements for nationals of certain countries are subject to change without warning.

A passport serves as proof of your nationality and identity therefore you will need to carry a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay and present it when requested upon entering Japan, during your stay, and upon departing Japan. Once you decide to travel to Japan, be sure to make the necessary passport arrangements. Also, in addition to ensuring your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, please be aware that, in some cases, people are unable to depart Japan if it is discovered that the period of validity remaining on their passport is insufficient. Different countries have different requirements regarding the remaining period of validity on a passport depending on factors such as the duration of stay and purpose of visit, so if your passport will expire within the next year, be sure to check the requirements that apply to you.

A visa serves as an entry permit to a country. Depending on predetermined agreements between countries, a visa may not be required to enter a certain country and a passport alone may suffice. For visa exemption by individual country and other related information, please check Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Other Points to Note

If you suffer from an injury or illness during your stay in Japan, you may incur hefty fees for medical care. In order to prepare yourself for an emergency, we recommend taking out private medical insurance with sufficient coverage.

Visa information provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Plan Your Trip

• About Nagoya
• About Chubu Region
• Wi-Fi & Connectivity
• Electricity
• Transportation
• Timezone & Weather

NAGOYA ITINERARY: Best Things to Do & Places to Visit

As the capital of Aichi Prefecture and the largest city in the Chubu Region, Nagoya is considered one of the key cities in Japan. It is also the region’s transportation hub and the jump-off point to other parts of Central Japan.

Nagoya Station serves many railway lines including Tokaido Shinkansen Line, Tokaido Main Line, and Chuo Main Line among others. The private railway company, Meitetsu, which serves both Aichi and Gifu Prefectures, established its headquarter in Nagoya. Modern and historical attractions are accessible by trains and buses. The city also has the Me-guru Sightseeing Bus which has stops to most of the popular destinations in Nagoya. Here are some of the things to do while in Nagoya.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Legoland Japan

Legoland Japan started its operation in April 2017. It is the first ever Legoland amusement park in Japan, the second in Asia after Malaysia. The outdoor amusement park is divided into seven (7) themed areas: Miniland, Factory, Bricktopia, Adventure, Lego City, Knight’s Kingdom, and Pirate Shores. It also features a rotating Observation Tower, offering you a view of the whole park. Most attractions and rides are for kids, but there are some that adults would enjoy too.

Entrance Fee:  ¥4,700; Free (children below 2 years old)
 Opening Hours:  10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closing time varies. Please check the official website for the schedule.)
 Location:  2 Chome−2−1, Kinjofuto, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 455-8605 Getting There:  From Nagoya Station, take the Aonami Line train to Kinjofuto Station. Travel on foot to Legoland from Kinjofuto Station. It will take around five minutes on foot to reach Legoland from Kinjofuto Station.

Nagoya Castle

Once the core of one of Japan’s prominent castle towns, Nagoya-juku, the Nagoya castle is also one of the largest in the country. It was built during the early Edo Period under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate. It was destroyed in an air raid during the Second World War in 1945 and was reconstructed in 1957 until 1959. Another reconstruction, which began in 2009, is still ongoing and is targeted to finish in 2022. You can still visit other parts of the castle ground as reconstruction is done per section/area.

Entrance Fee:  ¥500 (adults); ¥100 (senior citizen); Free (students from junior high school and below) 
 Opening Hours:  9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (daily)
 Location:  1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 460-0031 Getting There:  Get off at Higashi-ote Station via Meitetsu Seto Line or board a Me-guru Sightseeing Bus at Nagoya Station Bus Terminal’s Platform 11 and alight at Nagoya Castle stop.

TOYOTA Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

In June 1994, an old textile factory was relaunched as the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, also called Toyota Tecno Museum. The museum displays memorabilia and mementos that tell the history of one of the world’s biggest automobile producer, from its early automatic loom manufacturing days to producing and manufacturing cars.

Entrance Fee:  ¥500 (adults); ¥200 – 300 (students); Free (senior citizens) 
Opening Hours:  9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (daily, except Mondays and holidays)
 Location:  45th Nagafushincho Nishinomiyincho Nishi-ku, 451-0051 Getting There:  Take a three-minute walk from Sako Station via Meitetsu Nagoya Line or ride a Me-guru Sightseeing Bus at Nagoya Station Bus Terminal’s Platform 11 and alight at Toyota Commemorative Museum stop.

Toyota Automobile Museum

The museum was officially launched in 1989, in time for the 50th anniversary of Toyota Motor Corporation. It houses a collection of about 140 cars from around the globe; most of them are as old as post-war Japan. It aims to present the evolution of the automobile and show how carmakers from around the world contribute to the fast development of the industry. The museum is located in Nakagute, a city close to Nagoya.

Entrance Fee:  ¥1,000 (adult); ¥500 (senior citizen); ¥400 – 600 (students); Free (pre-school) 
 Opening Hours:  9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (daily, except Mondays and holidays) 
Location:  41-100 Yokomichi, Nagakute, Aichi Prefecture 480-1118 Getting There:  Board a Higashiyama subway line and get off at Fujigaoka Station. Transfer to Linimo line and get on a train to Geidaidori Station. Take a short walk from the station to the museum.
  
Tip:  If you want to visit both the Toyota Commemorative Museum and Toyota Automobile Museum, you can save money when you get the Joint Ticket. Rates are ¥1,200 for adults and ¥460 – 640 for junior high and high school students.

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

This railway museum is owned and managed by the Central Japan Railways (JR Central). In March 2011, it officially opened its doors to the public. It aims to educate visitors about the railway system of Japan by showcasing various kinds of trains — from steam locomotives to bullet trains to magnetic trains — and explaining the different parts and how each part functions. It features a collection of 39 actual train cars, train cab simulators, railway dioramas, and many others. The museum is located outside Nagoya city.

Entrance Fee:  ¥1,000
 Opening Hours:  10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (daily, except Tuesdays and holidays) 
Location:  3-2-2 Kinjofuto, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 455-0848 Getting There:  It is close to Legoland. From Nagoya Station, take the Aonami Line train to Kinjofuto Station. Take a short walk to the museum from Kinjofuto Sation.

Nagoya TV Tower

The oldest TV tower in Japan, which first opened in 1954. It towers at 180 meters, offering two viewing spots: the Sky Deck (indoor) at 90 meters and the Sky Balcony (outdoor) at 100 meters. When nighttime hits, you will see the lights illuminating it, presenting the tower in a different “light”, literally. The tower also has a restaurant, a gallery, and a bowling alley.

Entrance Fee:  ¥700 (adults); ¥600 (senior citizen); ¥300 (students)
 Opening Hours:  10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (until 10 PM from April to December) 
Location:  3-6-15 Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 460-0003 Getting There:   Option 1: From Nagoya Station, take the subway train on Higashiyama Line to Sakae Station. It will take you about three minutes to reach it on foot from Exit 3. Option 2: Another route is to take the Sakuradori Line subway train to Hisayaodori Station. It will take you about one minute to reach Nagoya TV Tower on foot from Exit 4. Option 3: You can also board a Me-guru Sightseeing Bus at Nagoya Station Bus Terminal’s Platform 11 and alight at Nagoya TV Tower stop.

Shopping at Sakae District

Oasis 21 Complex. This complex, which opened in 2002, boasts a futuristic design with greenery. Oasis 21 employs a design which forged two seemingly contradicting themes that surprisingly turned out fine. It’s a very convenient place for shopping and dining, especially for those who are waiting for their scheduled bus departure as the complex also houses the bus terminal for both city buses and highway buses.

Entrance Fee:  FREE
 Opening Hours:  10 AM – 9 PM (Spaceship Aqua and shops); 10 AM – 10 PM (restaurants)
 Location:  1-11-1 Higashisakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 461-0005 Getting There: Option 1: From Nagoya Station, take a subway train on Higashiyama Line to Sakae Station. It will take you about one minute to reach Oasis 21 on foot from Exit 4. Option 2: Another way is to get on the Me-guru Sightseeing Bus at Nagoya Station Bus Terminal’s Platform 11 and alight at Nagoya TV Tower stop. Oasis 21 is adjacent to Nagoya TV Tower.

Sunshine Sakae. Just a few blocks from Oasis 21 and Nagoya TV Tower is Sunshine Sakae. The shopping and entertainment building opened in 2005. All six floors are loaded with different bars, cafés, restaurants, retail shops, and even concert halls! But the main draw is the 52-meter tall Ferris wheel, the Sky Boat, which holds 28 glass gondolas. At nighttime, it dazzles with dancing LED lights.

Entrance Fee:  FREE; ¥500 (Ferris wheel ride) 
Opening Hours:  11:00 AM – 11:00 PM 
Location:  3−24−4 Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, 460-0003 Getting There:  From Nagoya Station, take a subway train on Higashiyama Line to Sakae Station. You can reach Sunshine Sakae by taking a short walk from Exit 8.

Other Nagoya Attractions

Shrines and Temples:  Osu Kannon Temple, Arako Kannon Temple, Toganji Temple, Koshoji Temple, Nittaiji Temple, Shiroyama Hakusan Shrine, Atsuta Shrine
 


Parks and Entertainment:  Meijo Park, Higashiyama Park, Hisaya-Odori Park, Shirakawa Park, Port of Nagoya Aquarium

Museums:  Toyota Kaiken Plant Tour Museum, Nagoya City Art Museum, Tokugawa Art Museum, Nagoya City Science Museum, Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art, Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Shike-michi District


How to Get a Japan Visa

If you’re holding a Philippine passport, you will need a visa to enter Japan. Application is fast and easy if you complete the requirements. All applications must be coursed through an embassy-accredited travel agency like Attic Tours , which has branches in Manila (Roxas Boulevard), Quezon City (SM North EDSA), Cebu, and Davao.

For more information on how to apply for a visa, read: JAPAN VISA REQUIREMENTS .

Our trip was made possible by the tourism boards of Gifu and Aichi Prefectures! Opinions are my own.

Featured image purchased from Shutterstock. 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE: A Japanese City Well Worth Visiting

Your ultimate travel guide to nagoya city, japan.

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Nagoya Travel Guide: Top Attractions and Insider Tips

Table of Contents

Nagoya is a bustling city located in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan. It is Japan’s fourth most populated city, after Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka, and is considered the capital of Aichi Prefecture. Nagoya is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition and is home to many tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world.

This Nagoya travel guide aims to provide helpful travel insights and tips for anyone planning to visit this beautiful city. This guide includes valuable information on the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.

With its rich history, culture, and tradition, Nagoya is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. So, if you plan a trip to Japan, include Nagoya in your itinerary and use this Nagoya travel guide to make the most of your time in this fantastic city.

Getting There

Traveling to Nagoya is easy and convenient thanks to its central location in Japan. There are several options available when it comes to getting to Nagoya.

Nagoya is served by Chubu Centrair International Airport, located on an artificial island in Ise Bay. The airport is one of the busiest in Japan and is served by many domestic and international airlines. From the airport, travelers can take the Meitetsu Airport Line to Nagoya Station, which takes around 30 minutes. There are also buses and taxis available at the airport.

Nagoya Station is one of the busiest train stations in Japan. It is served by several JR Central lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen, which connects Nagoya to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama. The journey from Tokyo to Nagoya takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes on the Nozomi Shinkansen, while the trip from Osaka takes around 50 minutes on the same train. Several limited express trains connect Nagoya to other parts of Japan.

Several bus companies operate services to and from Nagoya, including Willer Express and JR Bus. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel around Japan, and many routes are available. For example, a bus from Tokyo to Nagoya takes around 5 hours, while a bus from Osaka to Nagoya takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Navigating the City

Navigating Nagoya can be a breeze if you know the right transportation options and understand the city’s layout well. This section will guide you through the different modes of transportation and provide you with some helpful tips to easily get around the city.

Public Transportation

Nagoya has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways. The most convenient way to get around the city is by train. The JR Nagoya Station is the main hub for trains, and it connects to other major cities in Japan. The station is also connected to the Nagoya Subway, which has six lines that cover most of the city.

Buses are another option, but they can be a bit confusing for first-time visitors. The city has a complex bus system, and figuring out which bus to take and where to get off can be challenging. However, if you’re up for the challenge, buses can be a great way to explore the city’s more remote areas.

Maps and Directions

To navigate Nagoya, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the city’s layout. You can find maps of the city at most tourist information centers or download them online. Google Maps is also an excellent resource for getting directions and finding your way around the city.

If you’re traveling by train, check the train schedules and maps before you go. The trains can be crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to avoid traveling during rush hour if possible. The Nagoya Subway also has a helpful app that provides real-time information on train schedules and delays.

When traveling by bus, check the bus route and timetable before you go. The buses can be a bit confusing, but most bus stops have maps showing the bus routes and stops. If you’re not sure which bus to take, ask the bus driver or a local for help.

In summary, Nagoya has a reliable public transportation system that includes trains, buses, and subways. The JR Nagoya Station is the main train hub, and the Nagoya Subway covers most of the city. Maps and directions are essential to navigate the city, and Google Maps and the Nagoya Subway app are excellent resources.

Accommodation

When planning a trip to Nagoya, finding the right accommodation can make all the difference. Luckily, Nagoya offers a wide range of options for all budgets and preferences.

The Tower Hotel Nagoya is an excellent option for those looking for a luxurious stay. Located in the heart of Nagoya, this hotel offers stunning views of the city skyline and is just a short walk from Nagoya Station. Another great option is the Nagoya Prince Hotel Sky Tower , which boasts a prime location and modern amenities.

Read: Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Nagoya, Japan

For budget-conscious travelers, Glocal Nagoya Backpackers Hostel is a great choice. Located just a few minutes from Nagoya Station, this hostel offers dormitory and private rooms. The Grand Base Osu is another option for a budget-friendly stay. This hostel is located in the trendy Osu neighborhood and provides a variety of room types.

Budget Options

If you’re looking for affordable accommodation without sacrificing quality, Vessel Inn Sakae Ekimae is a great choice. This hotel is located in the heart of Nagoya and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. For backpackers, there are various affordable options throughout the city, including the aforementioned Glocal Nagoya Backpackers Hostel.

Attractions

Nagoya has much to offer for those interested in exploring its rich culture and history. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Nagoya, categorized by type.

Historical Sites

Nagoya Castle

Visitors to Nagoya Castle will be treated to a breathtaking experience! Built in the early 17th century, the castle was once the residence of the Owari Tokugawa clan and has since been named a National Treasure.

From the top of the castle, visitors can take in stunning views of the city and the surrounding gardens. The castle also features the largest floorspace of any tower keep and two golden shachihoko and votive tiger-fish roof devices. Make sure to add Nagoya Castle to your list of must-see historical sites!

Osu is another historical site that is worth visiting. It is a shopping district that has been around since the Edo period. It is home to Osu Kannon Temple, a popular spot for tourists and locals.

Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine is also a famous historical site in Nagoya. It is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan and is said to house the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three imperial regalia of Japan.

Nagoya has several museums that are worth visiting.

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is a famous museum that showcases the history of the Toyota Motor Corporation. It is a great place to learn about the development of the automobile industry in Japan.

Nagoya City Science Museum

The Nagoya City Science Museum is another famous museum that is worth visiting. It has several interactive exhibits that are fun for children and adults.

Tokugawa Art Museum

For those seeking an immersive experience of the art and culture of Japan, the Tokugawa Art Museum is an absolute must-see. Housed in the former residence of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa family, this museum boasts a collection of national treasures and other important cultural artifacts from the Edo Period (1603-1868).

Visitors can explore a wide array of samurai armor and swords, tea utensils, noh masks and costumes, poems, scrolls, and maps, all of which are from the family’s immense wealth that was only surpassed by four of the 200 feudal domains of the Edo Period.

Parks and Gardens

Shirotori Garden

Shirotori Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in Nagoya’s heart. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Japan.

Shopping Districts

Sakae district.

Explore the vibrant Sakae district in Nagoya, home to many department stores, shopping centers, parks, and the iconic Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER. Stroll through the parks near the tower and enjoy the bustling shopping scene during the day.

Then, when the sun sets, experience the vibrant nightlife with its eclectic mix of dining options, hole-in-the-wall bars, and multistory nightclubs. Climb up the 100-meter sky deck of the MIRAI TOWER for breathtaking views of the area and sample Nagoya’s specialties and international fare.

With its unique blend of shopping, dining, bar-hopping, and entertainment, Sakae is the perfect place to have fun and explore.

Osu Shopping District

Experience the hustle and bustle of Nagoya’s Osu Shopping Street, a vibrant shopping district with over 1,200 shops and restaurants! From electrical appliance shops to secondhand clothing stores, restaurants, and cafes, there’s something for everyone.

Plus, there are many exciting events held throughout the year, such as the Osu Summer Festival in August, the Osu Daido-chonin Festival in October, and the Osu Setsubun Takarabune Gyoretsu (treasure ship parade) in February.

Don’t miss the antique market held on the 18th and 28th of each month at the Osu Kannon Temple, which was moved from Osu Village, Mino Province, to its current location by the Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa in 1612.

Food and Drink

Nagoya is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine. The city’s local specialties are hearty and comforting, perfect for travelers seeking delicious comfort food.

Restaurants

Plenty of restaurants in Nagoya serve local specialties like hitsumabushi, miso katsu, and tebasaki. Misokatsu Yabaton Nagoya is a popular restaurant chain specializing in miso katsu, a deep-fried pork cutlet with thick miso sauce. Another must-visit restaurant is Atsuta Horaiken Honten , famous for its hitsumabushi, a grilled eel dish served on a bed of rice.

Nagoya has a thriving cafe culture, with plenty of cozy cafes dotted around the city. If you’re looking for a breakfast spot, head to Komeda’s Coffee for their famous ogura toast, toast topped with sweet red bean paste and butter. For a more modern cafe experience, check out Cafe Stay Happy, which serves delicious coffee and cakes in a stylish setting.

Nagoya has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and pubs to choose from. If you’re looking for a unique drinking experience, check out Bar Ichi, which serves delicious cocktails made with local ingredients. Another popular bar is The SG Club, which has a wide selection of craft beers and a cozy atmosphere.

Nagoya is a great destination for shoppers, offering a wide range of options from department stores to street markets. Here are some recommendations for shopping in Nagoya.

When it comes to souvenirs, Nagoya has plenty of options to choose from. Visitors can find traditional Japanese items such as pottery, tea sets, and kimonos. Additionally, Nagoya is known for its local specialty foods, including miso and hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice).

One popular shopping destination for souvenirs is the Osu Shopping District. This area is known for its wide range of shops selling everything from anime merchandise to traditional Japanese crafts. Visitors can also find a variety of street food vendors and restaurants in the area.

Another option for souvenir shopping is the Nagoya Castle souvenir shop. This shop offers a range of items related to the castle and its history, including postcards, books, and traditional Japanese toys.

Department Stores

Nagoya is home to several large department stores, offering a wide range of shopping options. One of the most popular is the Matsuzakaya Department Store, located in the heart of Nagoya’s shopping district. This store offers a range of luxury brands and more affordable options.

Takashimaya Department Store

Another popular department store is the Takashimaya Department Store near Nagoya Station. This store offers a range of fashion and beauty brands and a food hall featuring a variety of Japanese and international cuisine.

Parco Department Store

For those looking for a more affordable shopping experience, the Parco Department Store in Sakae offers a range of trendy fashion and beauty brands at more affordable prices.

Nagoya is centrally located in Japan, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some of the most popular day trips from Nagoya.

Toyota City

Located just a short train ride from Nagoya, Toyota City is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. The city is home to the Toyota Motor Corporation, one of the world’s largest car manufacturers. Visitors can tour the Toyota Kaikan Museum to learn about the company’s history and see some of their latest models on display. The museum also offers factory tours where visitors can see how cars are made.

Legoland Japan

Book Your Tickets Here

Take your family to the exciting world of Legoland Japan Resort! Located in Nagoya’s neighboring city, Nagoya Kinjo-futo Station, this theme park features over 40 thrilling rides and attractions, from roller coasters and water rides to a unique Lego-themed aquarium.

Kids will also have a blast building and playing with Lego bricks. Since its opening on April 1, 2017, Legoland Japan Resort has been a hit with visitors, with over two million visitors annually. Plan a fun-filled day trip today and experience the magic of Legoland Japan Resort!

Nagashima Resort

Nagashima Resort is a large amusement park located about an hour’s drive from Nagoya. It features over 60 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and a Ferris wheel. In addition to the amusement park, the resort also has a hot spring spa, outlet shopping mall, and flower park. Visitors can easily spend a whole day exploring what Nagashima Resort offers.

Events and Festivals

Nagoya is a city that loves celebrating, and visitors will find various events and festivals throughout the year. There is something for everyone, from traditional Japanese festivals to modern music events.

Nagoya Festival

The vibrant Nagoya Festival draws in thousands of visitors yearly to its spectacular procession of the Three Heroes of Nagoya: Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. The parade is a sight to behold, with its 700+ participants adorned in traditional armor and carrying banners and weapons, followed by a captivating band.

But that’s not all – the festival also features over 100 intricately decorated floats, each representing a different city district, traditional Japanese food, and games. Held in the central Hisaya Odori Park in Sakae, the Nagoya Festival is an event not to be missed!

World Cosplay Summit

Another popular event is the World Cosplay Summit, held in August. Cosplayers worldwide come to Nagoya to compete in a series of events, including a parade through the city. Visitors can also attend workshops and meet-and-greets with their favorite cosplayers.

Music Festivals

Throughout the year, visitors can also enjoy a variety of music festivals in Nagoya. The Summer Sonic festival, held in August, features some of the biggest names in Japanese and international music. The Nagoya Jazz Festival, held in September, showcases some of the best jazz musicians worldwide.

Practical Information

Nagoya has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences heavy rainfall during the summer months. The best time to visit Nagoya is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant.

The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, most people in Nagoya can speak English to some extent, especially those in the tourism industry. It is recommended to learn a few basic Japanese phrases before visiting Nagoya.

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen (¥). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks, post offices, and exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted in Nagoya, but carrying some cash for small purchases is always recommended.

The plug type used in Japan is Type A and Type B. The standard voltage is 100V, and the standard frequency is 50/60 Hz. Visitors from countries with different plug types will need to bring a plug adapter.

Exploring the city’s rich history and culture is recommended when visiting Nagoya. The city was an important center during the Edo period and is home to many historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Visitors can enjoy the city’s modern attractions, such as the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should i spend in nagoya.

The ideal duration of a trip to Nagoya depends on your interests and the places you want to visit. However, a 3-4 day trip is sufficient to explore the city’s major attractions.

What are some must-see tourist spots in Nagoya?

Nagoya has many popular tourist attractions, including Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, Tokugawa Art Museum, and Osu Kannon Temple. The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is a must-visit for car enthusiasts.

What is Nagoya famous for?

Nagoya is famous for its unique cuisine, including miso-katsu, hitsumabushi, and tebasaki. The city is also known for its manufacturing industry, with Toyota being one of the most prominent companies based in Nagoya.

What are some things to do in Nagoya at night?

Nagoya has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and karaoke establishments to choose from. The Sakae district is particularly popular for its nightlife, with many establishments staying open until the early hours of the morning.

What is the best way to travel from Nagoya to Tokyo?

The fastest way to travel from Nagoya to Tokyo is by taking the Shinkansen bullet train, which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Is Nagoya worth visiting?

Nagoya has a lot to offer visitors, with its rich history, unique cuisine, and modern attractions. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s cultural heritage or experiencing its vibrant nightlife, Nagoya is worth visiting.

Nagoya, Japan Travel and Tour Packages

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist attractions in Nagoya City, Japan, that you can add to your itinerary?

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• Top 15 Best Things to do in Nagoya, Japan
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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Nagoya Itinerary: Things to Do + Travel Tips

Conveniently located between Tokyo and the Kyoto/Osaka area, Nagoya makes for a perfect stopover destination. Not only is it the capital of the Aichi prefecture, but its also the 4th largest city in Japan. If you’re looking for things to do or how to get there, check out this Nagoya Itinerary!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. Find more information about affiliate links on  our policy page .

Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? For How Long?

Top things to do in nagoya, other things to do in nagoya, getting to nagoya from kyoto, getting to nagoya from tokyo.

• Getting Around Nagoya

To be 100% honest, there are only a few scenarios where I believe Nagoya would be worth visiting:

• Your first visit to Japan is more than 2 weeks long
• This isn’t your first trip to Japan and you’ve already been to the big cities like Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka , and Hiroshima
• You’re looking for off the beaten path (less touristy) destinations

For those visiting Japan for the first time, there are just so many other places I would recommend that I feel would be better for truly getting immersed in Japan and its culture. This is especially true if time in Japan is limited.

However, due to Nagoya’s convenient location between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, it makes for a great stopover city. If you have the extra time in your itinerary, then it’s definitely worth spending a half a day to a day in Nagoya.

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle is one of the castles in Japan that have been rebuilt. This means that, while the outside still looks like the traditional Japanese castle, the inside looks more like a modern museum. Inside they have all sorts of samurai equipment, statues, old documents, and more on display.

Also inside the Nagoya castle gates is Honmaru palace. It’s doesn’t cost anything extra and it’s definitely worth exploring. The building is made of really fine wood, and the sliding doors are decorated with exquisite paintings.

Tokugawa Garden

If you’ve visited some of the parks and gardens in Tokyo, Tokugawa Garden will likely pale in comparison as it is much smaller and unassuming. However, it’s still a nice place to visit. It has one big pond, and on the opposite side of the pond is a traditional style building which you can rent out for events. There is also a small path that allows you to stroll around the pond.

Osu Kannon Dori

On the way to Osu Kannon Temple is Osu Kannon Dori, a popular shopping street. Here, you’ll find all sorts of food, clothes, accessories, and Japanese souvenirs. Even better is that many of the shops along Osu Kannon Dori and the surrounding streets are mom and pop shops. By shopping here, you’re supporting the local community. However, also be prepared for the fact that many of them speak very limited English.

Osu Kannon Temple

After making your way down, Osu Kannon Dori, you’ll eventually arrive at Osu Kannon Temple. The temple is typically lively with many people. Plus the many flag poles that surround the temple give the place a festive feel.

When I was at Osu Kannon temple, there was a guy with some bird seed in front of the temple, and he must have been surrounded by more than 50 pigeons. They all wanted the food so badly that they were actually flying onto his arm. It was pretty amusing to watch.

If you’ve got more than half a day in Nagoya, you can also check out these activities:

• Legoland Japan
• Furoshiki Traditional Japanese Wrapping Class
• Kirin Brewery Tour
• Maidreamin Maid Cafe
• Laguna Ten Bosch Resort

Transportation

That fastest way to get to Nagoya from Kyoto is by taking the shinkansen (bullet train). It only takes about half an hour to get there, but if you don’t have the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), it will cost about ¥5,800.

The cheaper (but slower) option for getting to Nagoya from Kyoto is by highway bus. With the Willer Express buses, it takes approximately 2 and a half hours to get to Nagoya (including stops), costs about ¥3,000.

That fastest way to get to Nagoya from Tokyo is by taking the shinkansen (bullet train). It only takes about 2 hours to get there, but if you don’t have the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), it will cost about ¥10,890.

The cheaper (but slower) option for getting to Nagoya from Tokyo is by highway bus. When I went to Nagoya, I didn’t have the JR pass, so I chose this option and booked a ticket with Willer Express . It takes approximately 5 and a half hours to get to Nagoya (including stops), but was only about ¥4,000. Personally, I thought it was a great way to see the more country side of Japan.

Getting Around Nagoya (Nagoya One Day Pass)

While the JR Pass is useful for getting to Nagoya, it unfortunately doesn’t help much when trying to get around the city. The easiest way to get between the top attractions in Nagoya is by local bus and/or subway.

However, there is something called the Nagoya One Day Pass (or 1-Day Tickets). Depending on the type of pass, it allows you to ride the bus or subway an unlimited amount of times in a day for one flat fee. One Day Passes range from ¥500 to ¥850.

If you were to visit all of the top things to do in Nagoya, your travel itinerary for the day might look something like this:

• Nagoya Station -> Nagoya Castle (¥210)
• Nagoya Castle -> Tokugawa Garden (¥210)
• Tokugawa Garden -> Osu Kannon (¥410)
• Osu Kannon -> Nagoya Station (¥200)

That’s a total of ¥1,030, meaning the one day pass could save you ¥180 to ¥530.

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All you need to know about entering, leaving and staying in Japan

Any foreign visitor entering Japan must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay, and all visitors must comply with the conditions of their visas.

See below for information about the current visa requirements for Japan.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

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Entering Japan

Below is a basic introduction to the Japanese immigration system. Contact your closest Japanese embassy or consulate outside Japan or an immigration bureau inside Japan for official advice.

All foreigners, including foreign residents, get fingerprinted and photographed upon entering Japan as a measure aimed at preventing terrorism and other illegal activities. Excluded from this procedure are persons under the age of 16 and a few special groups, such as diplomats and visiting dignitaries.

All foreigners receive a status of residence when entering Japan. There are more than twenty statuses of residence, including "temporary visitor" for tourists, and a range of statuses for students , workers and relatives of Japanese nationals and residents.

If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a "general visa exemption arrangement", you need only a valid passport to enter Japan as a "temporary visitor". Otherwise, you need to obtain a visa before entering the country. Temporary visitors from most countries are allowed to stay for up to 90 days.

If you are a citizen of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland or the United Kingdom, you have the possibility to extend your stay to a total of up to six months. You still initially enter Japan on a 90 day permit, but can then apply for an extension at an immigration bureau in Japan.

Visitors to Japan are encouraged to use Visit Japan Web to digitally submit immigration and customs-related information ahead of their arrival for a smoother entry into the country without the need to fill out paper forms. The system can be used to also create a tax exemption QR code for an enhanced tax-free shopping experience.

Temporary visitors are not allowed to engage in any paid activities. However, short term studies at Japanese language schools are permitted.

All foreign tourists in Japan are required to carry their passports with them at all times.

Longer stays for the wealthy and digital nomads

If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a "general visa exemption arrangement" and have savings of over 30 million yen, you and your spouse may qualify to stay in Japan for up to one year for the purpose of sightseeing and recreation. Likewise, professionals with an annual income of over 10 million yen may qualify to work remotely from Japan for up to six months. Respective visas (for "long-term residents for sightseeing/recreation" or "digital nomads") have to be obtained before traveling to Japan.

White-collar work

Foreigners who wish to work in Japan need to get a work visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan to enter the country on a status of residence permitting work.

There are over a dozen such statuses of residence, each allowing the holder to work only in a specific professional field, for example, journalism, arts, research, education, engineering, entertainment, business management, international services, etc. If you change jobs while you are in Japan and your new job falls into a different professional field (e.g. from education to engineering), you will need to change your status of residence.

A university degree or considerable professional experience in the applicable field is required to qualify for most work visa types. Most also require you to have a prospective employer as a sponsor. Residence permission is granted in periods of 4 months to 5 years and is extendable.

Workers may bring their spouses and children to Japan on a dependent visa. Dependents are not allowed to engage in any paid activities unless they get permission from the immigration office, but even then, they may work only a set maximum number of hours per week.

Other work and trainees

The so-called "Specified Skills" status allows for work in one of over a dozen professional fields, including construction, hospitality, nursing and manufacturing. Applicants do not need a degree but have to pass a technical skills test and know some Japanese. There are two types: Type 1 allows workers to stay in Japan for up to five years, but they may not bring their family. Type 2 is for more highly qualified workers, can be extended indefinitely and allows for the family to live in Japan. Type 1 holders may upgrade to type 2 after five years.

Furthermore, there is the "Technical Intern Training Program", which lets foreign workers acquire skills at a workplace in Japan that they could not otherwise acquire in their home countries. After a few years, participants become eligible to switch to the above-mentioned "Specified Skill" type 1 status. Most trainees come from South East Asia.

Working holidays

This is a special visa type that allows some paid activity for citizens of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Ireland, Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and a few other countries between the ages of 18 and 30. Consult the working holiday visa page for details.

Foreigners who wish to study in Japan (except for short term studies at language schools ) need to get a student visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan in order to enter the country on a status of residence that permits long term studies.

Sponsorship from an educational institution in Japan and proof of sufficient funds to cover all your expenses during your stay are required to qualify for a student visa. Residence permission is granted in periods of between 3 months and 4 years and 3 months and is extendable.

Students must not engage in paid activities unless they get permission from the immigration office. Even then, students may work only a set maximum number of hours per week.

Foreigners who are married to a Japanese national or to a permanent resident of Japan can obtain a spouse visa, which allows them to engage in any paid activity in Japan. Residence permission is granted in periods of 6 months or 1, 3 or 5 years and is extendable.

Staying in Japan

Inside Japan, most immigration-related matters, such as extending residence permission or changing the status of residence, are handled by the Immigration Services Agency, which has bureaus across the country.

Residence card

All new foreign residents are issued a residence card upon initially entering Japan at Narita , Haneda , Kansai or Chubu airports. New residents arriving through different ports can get their cards at their municipal offices.

The residence card is an important document required for opening a bank account , obtaining a cell phone , converting a drivers license and similar activities. It stores the holder's personal information, including the current address, the status of residence and period of stay. Foreign residents are required to carry their residence card with them at all times.

Extending residence permission

Most statuses of residence allow you to stay in Japan for a period between three months and five years. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension at an immigration bureau inside Japan before the expiry date of your current residence permission.

The application process is relatively simple, provided that you still fulfill the conditions for the specific status of residence. It typically takes a couple of days or weeks for the application to be processed, and you are allowed to remain in Japan during that time even if your previous residence permission expires in the meantime.

Changing status of residence

It is possible to change your status of residence (e.g. from instructor to arts or from student to engineer) at an immigration bureau inside Japan. You will have to provide similar documentation as you would when applying for a new status of residence at an embassy or consulate outside of Japan.

Re-entry permits

Foreign residents who wish to temporarily leave Japan for longer than a year, need to get a re-entry permit before departing Japan; otherwise, they lose their status of residence. Re-entry permits can be obtained at immigration offices in Japan. For absences of less than one year, re-entry permits are not required.

Permanent residence

Foreign residents, who have shown good conduct and have sufficient assets or ability to make an independent living, can be granted permanent residence if they reside in Japan for a certain number of consecutive years. For highly-skilled professionals and spouses of Japanese nationals, the minimum amount of years is typically one to five years, while for others it is typically ten years. Permanent residence status is indefinite and allows for any paid activity.

Naturalization

Foreigners, who have resided in Japan for at least five consecutive years (less if married to a Japanese national), have shown good conduct, have never plotted against the Japanese government, have sufficient assets or ability to make an independent living and are willing to renounce any other citizenship held, can be granted Japanese citizenship.

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Nagoya Itinerary: Budget Planning And Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 21st, 2024

Looking for how to plan for your Nagoya itinerary? This Nagoya travel guide blog will give you some ideas on what to do and useful transportation information when visiting Nagoya.

Being the third-largest city in Japan, Nagoya (名古屋) is the busiest and largest city in the Chubu region. Strategically located between Tokyo and Kyoto, Nagoya is the capital city of Aichi prefecture and the main entry point to most of the attractions in the Chubu region. It is a historical and culturally rich city with many attractions awaiting you to explore. Moreover, Nagoya is also known for its manufacturing and is home to the headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation.

In this Nagoya travel guide blog , we listed down some of the things to do, places to visit, food to eat, and useful transportation guide that help you travel around. Our 2-days Nagoya itinerary included.

Table of Contents

Nagoya Pre-Trip Essential

There are many ways to get to Nagoya by flights, trains, and buses. It can be easily accessed by Tokyo, Osaka, and even foreign countries. The Chubu Centrair International Airport welcomes thousands of visitors per day via international and domestic flights. However, take note that it takes about an hour to get to Nagoya city from the airport.

Getting To Nagoya

From Tokyo to Nagoya :

• By Domestic Flight: Nagoya and Tokyo are well-connected with Haneda Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport. The plane fare is about ¥7,000 for a domestic flight. But, please consider the traveling train to and from the airport. You can always check for the cheapest flight ticket from Skyscanner to fly to Nagoya.
• By Shinkansen: The most convenient way to get to Nagoya from Tokyo is by Shinkansen (bullet train). It takes about 90 minutes and costs about ¥11,290 to reserve seats.
• By Highway Bus: It is the most inexpensive option to get to Nagoya. Travelers can take a night express bus and arrive at Nagoya the next morning.

From Osaka to Nagoya :

• By Shinkansen: The bullet train from Shin Osaka Station takes about 50 minutes and costs about ¥6,760 for reserve seats. Again, take note that JR Pass is not covered for the Nozomi trains.
• By private railway: The Kintetsu railway runs between Osaka-Namba Station and Kintetsu-Nagoya Station. It takes about 120 minutes at ¥4,260. If you are visiting Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Mie prefecture (part of Nagoya), consider getting the Discounted Kintetsu Rail Pass from Klook which gives you unlimited Kintetsu train access (non-reserved seat) to most of the Kansai region and Nagoya.
• By Highway Bus: Express bus runs frequently between Nagoya and Osaka. It takes about 3 hours to reach Nagoya. Fare is about ¥2,000 to ¥3,000.

Nagoya Travel Tips : if you are planning to take the Shinkansen, consider getting the JR Rail Pass . It will cover to Shinkansen ride from Tokyo/Osaka to Nagoya. However, take note that Nozomi trains are not included in JR Pass.

From Chubu Airport To Nagoya City

There are two ways to get to Nagoya City from Chubu Centrair International Airport by using public transport, either by airport bus or Meitetsu train:

• The Cheapest and fastest way to/from the airport is by Meitetsu limited express (¥890, 33 minutes) and u-sky (Reserved seat, ¥1,250, 28 minutes). Get discounted Ticket from Klook . Fuss-free redemption and convenience.
• Take the Meitetsu Airport Limousine Bus to Nagoya downtown (¥1,200, 50 minutes). The buses leave from platform#6 and stop at a few areas including Sakae, Fushimi district before entering the Meitetsu Nagoya Station.

Alternatively, get the private Nagoya Airport Transfer from Klook .

Nagoya Travel Tips : if you are arriving in Nagoya by flight, it is best to pick up all the travel essentials at the airport. You can pre-order and pick up the unlimited Wifi router  or  4G Sim Card from the airport. It is important and convenient to stay connected when visiting Nagoya.

Getting Around in Nagoya

Nagoya is well-connected with public transport. It is easy and best to explore Nagoya by subway and bus. For the first-time visitors, we recommended getting the one-day transport pass to enjoy the unlimited transport ride in Nagoya city.

There are a few transport options available for foreign visitors:

• Nagoya 1-Day buses and subways pass at ¥850 for an adult and ¥430 for children under 12.
• Nagoya 1-Day subways pass ¥740 for an adult and ¥370 for children under 12.
• Meguru 1-Day Pass for Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus in Nagoya ( Detail Routebus )

Nagoya Travel Tips : Get the Donichi Eco Kippu (Weekend Eco Ticket) for unlimited buses and subway rides on weekends at ¥600.

Where To Stay

Finding the best stay in Nagoya can be head-ache due to limited choices. Most of the popular choices of hotels in Nagoya with strategic locations are always fully booked especially during the weekend. So we recommended booking your accommodation once you’re done with your Nagoya itinerary.

We stayed in Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya and highly recommended it. Strategic location and next to the subway station. Alternatively, here are some additional ideas if you are looking for the best stay in Nagoya:

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel is directly connected to Nagoya JR Station, making it one of the great choices for travelers looking for a convenient stay. You can find a lot of great restaurants and eateries in the same building or nearby. The unbeatable location makes it an ideal location for travelers to plan to travel and sightseeing by train.

Richmond Hotel Nagoya Shinkansen-guchi is one of the popular choices in Nagoya. It is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Nagoya station. Newly opened in 2016, this Richmond hotel offers clean rooms, comfortable beds, and well-equipped amenities. The price is also reasonable.

Daiwa Royal Hotel D-CITY Nagoya Nayabashi is another good value hotel for travelers. This 3-star hotel is centrally located in Nagoya city. The room is relatively spacious based on the price tag. Breakfast is included for your stay.

Alternatively, check out our complete accommodation guide on where to stay in Nagoya.

Nagoya Itinerary Planning

The lively Nagoya offers a great combination of cultural attractions and urban development. You can easily spend several days in Nagoya city to fully explore the lively city. Even with one day in Nagoya, you are never run out of things to do and food to eat in Nagoya. During our visit to Nagoya, we enjoyed our time wandering in town, visiting the interesting sites, and taste on various Nagoya local dishes.

Nagoya Travel Blog: How To Plan Your Nagoya itinerary

• Arrived Nagoya. Spend time in Nabano no Sato. (3-4 hours)
• Start your day with Nagoya Style Breakfast.
• Nagoya Castle (2-3 hours)
• Atsuka Shrine and lunch with Nagoya Must Eat Hitsumabushi. (2-3 hours)
• Evening Oso Kannon and Oso Shopping Street. (1-2 hours)
• Night Oasis 21. (1 hour)
• Tebasaki for dinner/supper.

Nabano no Sato

Don’t miss the Nabano no Sato (なばなの里) in your Nagoya itinerary for its spectacular winter illumination. The Nabano no Sato is part of the Nagashima Resort. It is an amusement complex in Mie Prefecture is located about 30 minutes from Nagoya. The resort consists of an amusement park called Nagashima Spa Land, an outlet shopping mall called Mitsu Outlet Shopping Mall, and Nabana no Sato a flower park.

Among them, the Nabana no Sato is especially famous for its illumination which lasts from October to May each year. You can spend your whole day in Nagashima Resort by planning your visit to Nagashima Spa Land in the morning, shopping at Mitsu Outlet Shopping Mall at noon, and visiting the Nabano no Sato for its winter illumination at night. One of the popular attractions in Nagoya.

We arrived in Nagoya in the afternoon and checked in to Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya before kick starts our Nagoya itinerary. The location is strategically located in the central town and next to the metro station. Good sizing room and clean bed. One of the best value hotels in Nagoya.

Due to the limited time, we only visited the Nabano no Sato for its winter illumination at night. The traveling time to Nabano no Sato is less than 1 hour but we spend the entire night inside to enjoy the winter illumination including the flower tunnel, lighting shows, and more. Highly recommended if you are planning for the Nagoya itinerary in winter.

Getting There : From Nagoya station, take the 25 minutes train ride with Kintetsu express train to Nagashima Station. Then, transfer to 10 minutes on a non-stop direct bus to Nabana no Sato.

Nagoya Travel Tips : Get the Nabana no Sato Ticket for Winter light Illumination + Complimentary coupon worth JPY1,000. Make sure to check on availability.

Start Your Day With Nagoya Style Breakfast

The next day morning, we kicked start our day with the Nagoya Style Breakfast . Nagoya has a unique breakfast culture called morning service (mouninugu saabisu, モーニングサービス). That means you can just order a cup of coffee/tea in the shop but received the food for free.

There are lots of unique breakfast shops in Nagoya. But we highly recommended visiting Komeda Coffee, Japan’s famous chain of coffee shops that origin in Nagoya. Komeda Coffee serves a simple yet delicious breakfast meal set. During our Nagoya visit, we ordered the coffee and it came with complimentary toast and hard-boiled egg at about ¥500. Such a bargain!

You can easily find Komeda Coffee near your accommodation. We visited Komeda’s Coffee close to Nagoya Station, which is a great place to start our Nagoya itinerary.

Nagoya Castle

After breakfast, it’s time to proceed with our Nagoya visit. The Nagoya Castle (名古屋城, Nagoyajō) is the must-visit attraction for any Nagoya itinerary. It is an important castle and landmark of Nagoya city. This historical castle was destroyed in an air raid during WWII. Thankfully, the castle area was rebuilt using traditional construction materials and techniques and re-opened in 1957.

The golden dolphin or kinshachi is one of the best well-known statues. It is Nagoya Castle’s guardian deity and you can easily be spotted in most of the area in Nagoya Castle.

One of the must-sees in Nagoya Castle is the Honmaru, or Hommaru Palace (名古屋城本丸御殿). It was the residence and audience chambers of Lord Tokugawa Yoshinao. The Hommaru Palace is featured with extravagant Fusumae (sliding doors) applied with gold paper and beautifully replicated paintings. It created a gorgeous, luxurious sight that represents the Japanese painting and art culture.

Getting there : From Nagoya Station, take the subway to the Shiyakusho Station (Meijo Subway Line) with a one-time transfer required at Sakae Station. From there, 3-minutes walk to Nagoya Castle’s entrance.

Operating hours : Open daily from 9:00 to 16:30. Closed from Dec 29 to 1 Jan. Admission : ¥500. Get a ¥100 discount by showing 1-day Nagoya Subway&Bus 1 Day Pass. Website : http://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/

Atsuta Shrine

Similar to most the cities in Japan, Nagoya also has a historical shine in the city. The Atsuta Shrine (熱田神宮) is one of the important Shinto shrines in Japan with 1,900 years of history. Worth a visit if you are interested in a Japanese cultural shrine.

The shrine yard is huge. Spend some time walking through the row of trees in the yard. When you reach the center, you will find Atsuta Shrine and several smaller shrines. The Atsuta Shrine houses the sword Kusanagi, one of the three imperial regalia. But unfortunately, it is not open to the public.

Try the Nagoya Must Eat: Hitsumabushi

Before visiting the Atsuka Shrine, we were headed to Atsuta Houraiken Honten to taste the Nagoya must-eat food, Hitsumabushi. The Atsuta Houraiken Honten (あつた蓬莱軒 本店) was originally founded in 1873 for around 140 years. It is extremely popular for its Hitsumabushi with grilled eel rice that was served on top of rice in a wooden tub.

Due to the long waiting crowd, we wrote down our names and visited the Atsuka Shrine before this. But we still need to wait for almost one hour before getting to our table. But trust me, your wait for the hitsumabushi is truly worth it.

The extravagant hitsubamusbi can be tasted in four different ways. You can enjoy it in original, with hot broth (chazuke) and lastly your most liked way. We tried all the way and the chazuke is our liking.

We have documented our food review to Atsuta Houraiken Honten. Check it out.

Osu Shopping Street

Next, we boarded the subway back to Nagoya downtown to the Osu shopping district . Osu is one of the popular shopping areas in Nagoya with many shops which specialized in boutique brands, vintage clothing, and all sorts of items. You can also find a lot of unique shops such as anime or maid cafes, local and international cuisine restaurants, and even entertainment.

Besides, take some time to visit the Osu Kannon (大須観音), which is located beside the entrance to the Osu shopping street. The Osu Kannon is a popular Buddhist temple in Nagoya.

Getting there : Get off at Fushimi Station on Tsurumai Line. Alternatively, Osu shopping street is about a 10-minute walk from Kamimaezu Station on the Tsurumai and Meijo Subway Lines.

Oasis 21 is a futuristic three-dimensional park with a massive elliptical-shaped roof. This impressive building complex comes with the theme of “Space ship Aqua”. You can find the Green park space on the ground floor, a bus terminal in the basement, and a wide range of shops and restaurants inside the building.

There is a rooftop open area with a water-filled glass roof where visitors can walk on top of it. At night, the Spaceship Aqua is illuminated with LED lights and is very photogenic. You can even see the Nagoya tower and surrounding places. It is fun to admire the night view in Nagoya.

Getting there : Get off at Sakae station, a 5-minutes subway ride from Nagoya Station.

Popular Tebasaki For Supper

Lastly, we ended our Nagoya itinerary with tebasaki for supper. Nagoya is particularly famous for mouthwatering tebasaki (手羽先). The deep-fried chicken wing comes with original, salty, spicy, and various flavors. The crispy exterior with tender meat is perfectly matched with a cold cooling beer in izakaya. It was so addictive!

We enjoyed the tebasaki in the famous Sekaino-Yamachan in Nagoya city. Sekaino-Yamachan has many branches scattered around Nagoya and even Japan. Check the Yamachan website if you are looking for the nearest one.

Related Read : Sekai no Yamachan: Nagoya Famous Tebasaki

Day Trip From Nagoya

Thanks to its strategic location in the center of the Chubu region. Nagoya is the perfect place to plan a day trip to nearby attractions. There are many interesting places to visit in Nagoya. Among them, we listed down the top three recommended places to visit to include in your Nagoya itinerary.

Takayama is a historical city in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu prefecture. It retains a traditional touch with a well-preserved wooden building in the old town district since the Edo period. Don’t forget to sample the famous Takayama food during your visit there.

Shirakawago is a UNESCO world heritage site village. It is located about a 1-hour drive from Takayama and is perfect to couple together with a Takayama visit. The Shirakawago is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses which build in a unique architectural style.

We visited the Shirakawago and Takayama during our visit to the Chubu region. Instead of a day trip, we stayed there to fully explore the places. You are opting to plan for a one-day trip if you are limited in time. Alternatively, consider taking the day tour from Klook for hassle-free arrangements.

Nagoya Legoland is the first amusement park in Japan. It is the best place to visit for families with younger children. There is a total of up to seven parks for kids to spend a whole day here. The entrance fee is ¥4,700 and children below 2 years old are free to enter.

• Entrance fee: ¥4,700 (Free for children below 2 years old). Get a discounted ticket from Klook . Easy redeem and free Sea Life 1-Day Pass!
• Getting There: From Nagoya Station, take the Aonami Line train to Kinjofuto Station. From there, waiting for 5-minutes will get you to the Legoland.

Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium – Get in touch with amazing sea life such as killer whales, beluga whales, orcas, belugas, dolphins, and other interesting sea creatures at Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium. Definitely worth the visit especially for travelers with kids. Don’t forget to check the performance time and feeding time when visiting Nagoya Aquarium! Check for more detail on admission ticket from Klook at discounted price.

Overview: Nagoya Travel Blog Itinerary

Last but not least, hopefully, my Nagoya itinerary is helpful. This amazing city is underrated. There are so many things to do and see in this lively city. We enjoyed all kinds of local delicacies during my visit to Nagoya.

If you only have limited time to plan for a 1-Day Nagoya itinerary, we recommended visiting the Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and a food tour in Nagoya. It will give you a great overview of Nagoya.

If you have more time, we highly suggest including the Nabano no Sato if you are visiting Nagoya in winter. Alternatively, you can include the nearby attractions of Takayama or Shiragawago.

Being the central hub for travelers when visiting the central Japan region, Nagoya is the fourth largest city in Japan and the capital city of Aichi Prefecture. It is famous for manufacturing and known for the automotive industry.

The distance from Tokyo to Nagoya is 258.57km with about 2 hours of traveling time by Shinkansen. It required 100 minutes with Nozomi trains, 110 minutes for Hikari trains, and 180 minutes for Kodama trains.

Nagoya is worth the visit, even if it is one day. This underestimated city is full of attractions and mouthwatering food. It is the entry point in central Japan to nearby attractions such as Takayama, Shirakawago, Kamikochi, and more.

Nagoya is cheaper compared to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Still, it is not a cheap city compared with nearby places such as Kanazawa, Takayama, and Toyama.

We plan for ¥4,000 – ¥6,000 on meals and ¥1,500 for local transport for 1 day in Nagoya.

Continue Read On

Lastly, we visited Takayama, Shirakawago, Kamikochi, Tateyama, and many interesting places in the Chubu region. Free feel to continue to read on our Chubu travel blog if you are looking for a travel blog outside Nagoya. Enjoy your trip to Nagoya.

Related Nagoya Travel Guide Blog :

• Where To Stay in Nagoya: The Best Hotels and Areas
• Nagoya Food Guide: What To Eat in Nagoya
• Hitsumabushi Atsuta Houraiken: Nagoya Must Eat Food
• Sekai no Yamachan: Nagoya Famous Tebasaki

Complete read in Chubu travel blog:

• 8-Days Chubu Itinerary: Complete Central Japan Travel Guide

Takayama and Shirakawago Travel Blog:

• Shirakawa-go Travel Guide
• Shirakawago Itinerary: A Walk Into Cultural Japan Village
• Takayama Itinerary: What To Do and Eat in Takayama
• Takayama Food Guide: 10 Must-Try Food in Takayama
• Where to Stay in Takayama: Best Hotel or Traditional Ryokan

Tateyama Alpine Route and Kamikochi Travel Blog:

• Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (Travel Guide + Itinerary)
• Kamikochi Itinerary: One Day Hike in Japan Alps

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Japan travel restrictions and requirements for 2023

Japan travel restrictions and requirements for 2023

May 15, 2023

When planning a trip to Japan, make sure you know if there are any travel restrictions in place and any entry requirements you need to follow.

Japan has now completely removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions . Immigration rules have returned to normal from May 8, 2023 .

If you are thinking about traveling to Japan, you can check this regularly updated page and find out what you need to visit the country.

Below you’ll find information about the reinstatement of visa exemptions , vaccine and testing requirements, and other coronavirus measures in Japan.

Can I Travel to Japan Now?

Yes , Japan’s borders are now open to all international tourist travel.

You can easily travel to Japan by air or by sea as long as you meet the standard entry requirements.

Japan has completely removed the entry cap on daily foreign arrivals. All the usual visa exemptions currently apply to eligible visitors. This means that citizens of around 70 countries, including Australia, the United States and all European Union nations, can once again visit Japan for 90 days visa-free simply by using a valid passport.

Once in the country, train services are running as normal. You can use your Japan Rail Pass to travel around the nation at your leisure.

Japan Standard Entry Requirements

If you’re not a national of a visa-exempt country , you’ll need a visa to travel to Japan.

You should also make sure you have a valid passport , and other necessary documentation to enter the country.

If you have an e-Passport, you can use the Electronic Customs Declaration Gates (e-Gates) when arriving in Japan to clear border control.

Public transportation restrictions within Japan

Public transport, including trains, is operating in Japan. Travelers are advised to refer to Japanese train status updates issued by each individual operator to check if a service they plan to use remains affected by temporary Shinkansen COVID-19 restrictions.

Face masks are no longer required on JR trains or in most other places. They are still common and recommended, but are ultimately optional .

Who can travel to Japan now?

Anyone who meets the normal entry requirements can now travel to Japan.

All travelers should ensure they have a valid relevant visa for Japan (unless visa-exempt), a valid passport, and other necessary documentation to enter the country.

North Koreans cannot currently enter Japan due to sanctions. Apart from this, there are no other travel bans in place.

For further information about visas and visa exemptions, please check with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://www.mofa.go.jp/ .

Rules for tourists

Individual tourists can now travel to Japan. There is no longer any need to book a place on a package tour.

Although mask use is not obligatory outdoors in Japan, it is still recommended in crowds or when having a conversation at close quarters.

Quarantine measures when traveling to Japan

There are currently no quarantine measures in Japan.

For further information, please check with the Japanese Ministry of Health at https://www.mhlw.go.jp/

Countries and regions banned to enter Japan

Only citizens of North Korea are currently prohibited from traveling to Japan. This is because the Japanese government has imposed sanctions on North Korea.

All other nationalities are allowed to visit Japan with the proper documentation. All travel bans due to coronavirus have now been lifted.

Travel advisories

Check the up-to-date travel advisories for Japan regarding COVID-19 from your country below:

• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Health advice when visiting Japan

There are no specific health requirements in place for traveling to Japan.

Visitors are advised to have health insurance and be up-to-date on standard vaccinations. Recommended vaccines include:

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Japan’s Health Ministry has stated that the two most effective ways to curb the spread of illnesses like the coronavirus are to frequently wash hands and use a face mask when out in public:

• You should wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
• Face masks are recommended in public. The mask should cover your mouth, nose and chin, and be disposed of after a single-use.

If you are traveling to Japan with medication, make sure you bring copy of the prescription, a doctor’s note, and bring your medicine in the original container.

For the latest travel advisory and information about restrictions, please visit the Japan National Tourism Organization’s site .

The Japan National Tourism Organization has also set up a coronavirus hotline for tourist information available in 3 languages: English, Chinese, or Korean:

• From within Japan : 050 3816 2787
• If overseas : +81 50 3816 2787

Related posts

Related tours & activities.

NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Sep 10, 2023 | Japan , Nagoya , Travel Guide | 8 comments

Nagoya is booming. Much of the buzz in Japan’s 4th largest city is due to the fact that it is home to some of the world’s biggest automobile companies such as Toyota, Mitsubishi and Honda. These companies helped shaped Nagoya’s landscape. Perhaps because of its industrial core, most tourists traveling to Japan hightail Nagoya for its more famous neighbors like Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo. But Nagoya is more than just a bustling economic powerhouse, it is also a perfect base for touring Central Japan. My recent travel to Nagoya and Central Japan convinced me this region has some of the most beautiful destinations in the country.  Without further ado, here’s my Nagoya travel guide to help you plan your trip.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE 

Where is nagoya.

Nagoya is the capital of Aichi Prefecture situated in Chubu Region, in Central Japan.  Chubu is composed of 9 prefectures: Aichi, Gifu, Nagano, Toyoma, Gifu, Shizuoka Ishikawa, Niigata, Fukui and Yamanashi.

In this blog, I will discuss about Nagoya including the best sidetrips when visiting this largest city in Chubu Region.  This includes a visit to Gifu, Nagano and Toyoma Prefecture.

BEST TIME TO VISIT NAGOYA

We visited Nagoya and Central Japan during spring (March to May), and I must say it’s one of the best seasons to visit since the colorful flowers are in bloom almost everywhere. Best place to see a variety of flowers though is at Nabano no Sato, don’t miss their Tulips Festival and Winter Illumination that run until early May.  Weather is pleasant too, so you can explore Nagoya without worrying of too much humidity or too much cold.

I reckon it will also be lovely to visit Nagoya and Central Japan during autumn (October to November), I can imagine how Nagoya will transform into a kaleidoscopic world when the foliage turn tangerine and crimson!  If you are planning to visit the top foliage spots in Nagoya and Aichi, book your trip around mid to late November.

Nonetheless, Nagoya and Central Japan is a year-round destination, offering tourists a varied surprise whatever the season is.

JAPAN VISA FOR FILIPINOS  

Currency exchange.

Nagoya uses Japanese Yen (JPY).  The current rate is around JPY 1 = PHP 0.45 / USD .0091.  You can exchange money at the airport, money changers or withdraw from ATM machines at convenience stores like 7Eleven, Lawson or Family Mart.  There are also International ATM machines in some main train stations. There’s an International ATM at the ground floor of Oasis 21 i Center bus terminal.  Make sure to inform your bank that you will be traveling to Japan to avoid any hassle when withdrawing money from your card.

Though most establishments take cards, stack up Japanese Yen, since they prefer cash.

LANGUAGE IN NAGOYA

Most people speak Nihongo (Japanese), so prepare your Google Translate App.  If you plan to travel to certain destinations, ask the hotel staff to write the Japanese character in a piece of paper. This way, you can show it to the locals, in case you get lost and need to ask directions. But of course, if you have Wi-Fi, Google Maps and Hyperdia.com are your best friends in Japan.

WI-FI IN NAGOYA

Since English isn’t widely spoken in Nagoya and Central Japan, you need to rely on the internet for directions and Google maps.  It is recommended to have Wi-Fi access as soon as you land in Nagoya.  You can get one at the airport, but devices may run out quickly, so best to rent a portable Wi-Fi device ahead of time.  You can  RENT A POCKET WI-FI HERE  and just claim the device at the airport (all Japanese International Airport) upon arrival.  It’s the cheapest rate I’ve seen so far.

  HOW TO GET TO NAGOYA

Chubu International Airport also called CENTRAIR is the main airport of Nagoya and Central Japan.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES TO NAGOYA BY AIR

If coming from the Philippines, there are regular flights from Manila to Nagoya (Chubu International Airport) and JETSTAR airline offers the cheapest rate I’ve seen so far. You can book your flights here https://www.jetstar.com/ .  Jetstar flies 4 times weekly from Manila to Nagoya, they offer one of the cheapest airfare to Japan.

TOKYO TO NAGOYA

From Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen train to Nagoya for 1 hour 44 min. Fare is JPY 10, 680 (PHP 4,826/ USD 98).  Alternatively, you can take a Willer Bus for about JPY 2,500 (PHP 1,130 / USD 23) from Tokyo to Nagoya. Travel time is roughly 7 hours.  You can also take Meitetsu Bus, JR Bus and other highway buses.

  KYOTO TO NAGOYA

From Kyoto, take a Shinkansen train to Nagoya.  Travel time is about 36 minutes, fare is JPY 5,600 (PHP 2,530 /USD 51). Alternatively, you can take a Willer Bus for roughly JPY 3,600 (PHP 1,627 / USD 33), transit time is about 2 hours. You may also take JR Bus, Meitetsu or other highway buses.

OSAKA TO NAGOYA

From Osaka, you can take the Shinkansen train to Nagoya for JPY 6,360 (PHP 2,874/USD 58), transit time is 66 minutes. You may also board a Willer Bus for about 2 hours 20 minutes.  Fare is approximately JPY 2,500 (PHP 1130 / USD 23).

HOW TO GET FROM NAGOYA AIRPORT / CENTRAIR (Chubu International Airport ) TO NAGOYA CITY (Nagoya Station)

BY AIRPORT TRAIN

The fastest way to get from Nagoya Airport (Chubu Centrair) is by taking the express train to Nagoya Station (Meitetsu Line) for approximately 28 minutes.  The train leaves for Nagayo Station and Sakae every hour from 9:15 AM to 10: 15 PM.  Airport train fare is JPY 1, 230 (PHP 550 / USD 11).  For the airport train time table, check here. 

There are buses that run from Nagoya Airport/ Chubu Centrair to downtown Nagoya.  See table below for bus fare and destinations in Nagoya area.  For airport bus fares and transit time to other destinations outside Nagoya area, you can  check here.

The bus has 7 stops. Refer to the table below.

BY CENTRAIR LIMOUSINE

For hassle-free transfer from Nagoya Airport (Chubu Centrair) to your hotel or shopping malls.  Fare is JPY 1,200 (PHP 536 / USD11) for adults.  JPY 600 (PHP 267/ USD 5.43) for kids.  Transit time is roughly 55 minutes to Sakae Station and about 88 minutes to Nagoya Station.

Airport buses arrive at the first floor of the Passenger Terminal Building. The only way to get to the airport bus boarding point is via the Access Plaza.  You can get to the Access Plaza from the Airport Arrival Lobby. See Centrair Limousine bus schedule and routes here

    BY AIRPORT LINER

Since the airport train last trip is around 10:15 PM.  If you are arriving at Nagoya Airport late at night or early in the morning, you can ride the Airport Liner.   Fare is JPY 1,500 (PHP 670 / USD 14) for adults and JPY 750 (PHP 335 / USD 7) for kids. Travel time is about 55 minutes.  See the timetable below for trips between Nagoya Airport (Centrair) and Nagoya Station (West Gate).  The airport buses is at the 1 st floor of the Passenger Terminal Building in Centrair. The only way to get to the airport bus boarding point is via the Access Plaza. You can get to the Access Plaza from the Airport Arrival Lobby.  Pay to the driver upon boarding the bus.  See Airport Liner’s schedule below.

GETTING AROUND IN NAGOYA

BY SUBWAYS/ TRAINS

Just like the rest of Japan, the subway is a convenient way to get around Nagoya.  The subway runs from 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM.  One way fares range from JPY 210 to JPY 300.

JR train has many local trains and the famous Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo and Osaka.  For foreign tourists, it is recommended to get a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if you plan to travel to multi-cities in Japan, you will save a lot.  You can only purchase the JR Pass outside Japan,  PURCHASE A JR PASS HERE

Meitetsu Lines connects Nagoya to Gifu, Inuyama and Okazaki.

Kintetsu Lines connects Nagoya to Mie and Kansai Areas (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, etc.)

Nagoya Station is the main hub, this is where you can find the JR Bus Center and the Meitetsu Bus Center where you can ride the buses going to different destinations outside Nagoya.

BY ONE DAY BUS AND SUBWAY PASS

Another way to get around Nagoya is the One Day Bus and Subway Pass as it entitles you to unlimited rides on subways and city buses.  Fare is JPY 850 (PHP 380 / USD 8).  You can purchase this pass at the ticket machines in subways stations, inside city buses, Kanayama Tourist Information and at Oasis 21 i Center.

BY WEEKEND ECO-PASS

If you are in Nagoya on a weekend, you can save JPY 250 (PHP 112 / USD 2.26) by purchasing the Weekend Eco-Pass for unlimited rides around Nagoya. Aside from weekends, you can also use the Weekend Eco-Pass during national holidays and on the 8 th of each month. You can buy the Weekend Eco-Pass at the ticket machines inside city buses, subway stations, Oasis 21 i Center and at Kanayama Tourist Information.

IMPORTANT: You can’t use the One Day Bus & Subway Pass and the Weekend Eco-Pass at Meitetsu Buses, Aonomi Line, Linimo and the elevated section of the Yutorito Line. You can get discounts at selected establishments and sites when you show your pass.

Here’s my suggested route if you want to explore Nagoya City attractions by train:

BY ME GURU (NAGOYA SIGHTSEEING BUS)

One of the most convenient ways to get around Nagoya City is by riding the Meguru Sightseeing Bus , available from Tuesday to Sunday (no Monday, sorry).  The bus departs every 20 to 30 minutes on weekends (and holidays) and every 30 minutes to 1 hour on week days.  One Day Pass is JPY 500 (PHP 223/ USD 5) for adults and JPY 210 (PHP 94 / USD 0.85) for children.  The ticket also offer discounts to admission fees on various tourist destinations.

Tickets can be purchased inside the bus, in major hotels, Kanayama Tourist Information Center and at Oasis 21 i Center.

Here’s the Meguro Sightseeing Bus Route, it will stop at the following destinations:

HOW TO GET TO MEGURU BUS STOP AT NAGOYA STATION

Head to platform #8 of the City Bus Terminal where Meguru buses depart.  Exit from Nagoya Station Sakuradori exit area.  Once you are outside the station building, turn left and keep walking until you pass the taxi terminal.  Take a right turn and walk straight until you see the large road intersection and turn left.

IMPORTANT: Just follow the route as it is when you leave Nagoya Bus Station.  The bus returning to Nagoya Station at 5:00 PM will not stop at Nagoya Castle, Noritake Garden and Toyota Commemorative Museum.

BY MANACA CARD

If Osaka has  ICOCA Card ,  Nagoya has Manaca Card.  You can purchase this rechargeable card at the subway stations in Nagoya.

WHERE TO STAY IN NAGOYA

I recommend staying near the subway station for convenience.  Nagoya Station is the main hub, here, you can you find the Meitetsu Bus Center and JR Bus Center.  Sakae Station in downtown Osaka is also a good choice because it is near most attractions in Nagoya like the Nagoya TV Tower, Art Café Sakae and Oasis 21 i Center bus station, and it is just one train ride away to Nagoya Castle and Nagoya City Hall (take the brown line subway/ private line).

Hotel Cent Main Nagoya

5-5-10 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Nagoya Travellers Hostel

4-8-10, Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

Glocal Nagoya Backpackers Hostel

1-21-3 Noritake, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

Eco Hotel Nagoya

14-5 Tsubaki-cho, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

This is where we stayed at

Hotel Wing International Nagoya

1-4-11 Nishiki, Naka-Ku, Aichi , Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

Hotel Silk Tree Nagoya

2-20-5 Nishiki, Nakaku, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya, Japan

Daini Fuji Hotel

2-10-24 Higashisakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya Station / Downtown, Nagoya

WHAT TO EAT IN NAGOYA

Hitsumabushi

My fave food in Nagoya is the delicious Nagoya-style eel called Hitsumabushi.  This meal is composed of chopped broiled eel on top of a bowl of rice.  This is traditionally eaten in 4 stages: first, you can eat it as it is, then try it with sprinkled onion, nori seaweed and other condiments.  Then, pour the broth soup over the eel.

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN NAGOYA

NAGOYA CASTLE

One of the most renowned castles in Japan is Nagoya Castle built through the orders of Ieyasu Tokugawa. Its rooftop is decorated with golden dolphins/grampus (kinsachi), which is the symbol of Nagoya.

Entrance Fee: JPY 500 (PHP 226 / USD 5)

Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Entry to castle and buildings until 4:00 PM) Daily. Closed on Dec 29 – Jan 1.

How to get to Nagoya Castle:

Take the subway train (Meijo Line/Purple) to Shiyakusho (City Hall) Station (M07).  Walk for about 5 minutes to Nagoya Castle.  Fare is roughly JPY 240 (PHP 108 / USD 2.19).   If you are taking the Meguru sightseeing bus, Nagoya Castle is the 3 rd stop and it’s about a 3 minute walk from the bus stop.

TOKUGAWA ART MUSEUM

Built in the confines of the erstwhile house of the Owari family, one the major branches of the Tokugawa family.  The Tokugawa Art Museum showcases the treasures of the Owari’s including armos, samurais, swords, maps, scrolls and masks.

Entrance Fee: Adult: JPY 1,200 (PHP 542 / USD 11)

Open Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

How to get to Tokugawa Art Museum:

Take Meijo Subway, Meitetso Setu Line or JR Chuo to Ozone Station.  The Tokugawa Museum is just a stone’s throw away.

NAGOYA TV TOWER

Nagoya TV tower is the poster boy of Nagoya.  Head to the Sky deck for a panoramic view of Nagoya City, best to come here at night for the romantic nightscape.

Entrance Fee:

Adults: JPY 700 (PHP 316 / USD 6)

College and Highschool Students: JPY 600 (PHP 271 / USD 5.48)

School Students: JPY 300 (PHP 136 /USD 3)

TOYOTA COMMEMORATIVE MUSEUM

Adults: JPY 500 (PHP 226 / USD 5)

Students JPY 200 (PHP 90.37 / USD 2)

Seniors (65 y.o – above): Free

Open Hours:

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

How to get to Toyota Commemorative Museum:

From Nagoya Station, walk for about 20 minutes to Toyota Commemorative Museum. If you have the Meguru Sightseeing Bus Pass, Toyota Commemorative Museum is the 1 st stop.

NORITAKE GARDEN

Entrance Fee: Free

For Craft Center: JPY 500 (PHP 226/ USD 5) Adults / JPY 300 (PHP 136 / USD 3) Highschool Students

Open Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

How to get to Noritake Garden:

From Nagoya Station, walk for about 15 minutes to Noritake Garden.  If you are taking the Meguru Sightseeing Bus, this is the 2 nd stop.

SCMAGLEV AND RAILWAY PARK

As the name suggests, SMAGLEV museum showcases the advances of high speed trains though 39 rolling stock displays from different periods.   The first Shinkansen train in Japan is also displayed here.

Entrance Fee: JPY 1000 (PHP 6 / USD 9)

Open Hours:  Daily except Tuesday 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM

How to get to SMAGLEV and Railway Park

Take the Aonami Line and alight at Kinjofuto Station. Travel time is about 25 minutes and fare is JPY 350 (PHP 158 / USD 3).  SMAGLEV and Railway Park is near Legoland.

Legoland is Japan’s newest theme park, which opened last April 2017. You can BUY LEGOLAND TICKETS HERE  to experience its 40 different attractions including varied shows, activities and rides!  Best for families and kids traveling to Nagoya.

How to get to Legoland Nagoya Japan

Ride the Aonami Line to Kinjofuto Station. Transit time is about 25 minutes and fare is JPY 350 (PHP 158 / USD 3).  Legoland is near SMAGLEV and Railway Park.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

JR CENTRAL TOWERS

Dubbed as the twin towers of Nagoya, located just beside Nagoya Station.  Rush to the 15 th floor called “Sky Street” for a panoramic view of Nagoya City.

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

How to get to JR Central Tower:

Alight at Nagoya Station. JR Central Tower is right beside this subway station.

This stylish building that looks pretty much like a space ship is fringed by shops, cafes and bus terminal for city buses and highway buses to destinations like Tokyo.  Head to the rooftop for a scenic view of Nagoya Tower and surroundings. There’s a Tourist Information Center at the Galaxy Platform where you can get helpful pamphlets.

Entrance Free: Free

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

ATSUTA SHRINE

One of the most significant Sinto Shrine in Nagoya is the Atsuta Shrine where the Sun Goddess Amaterasu is enshrined and the sacred sword kusunagi (not open to the public).  While you are it at, try Nagoya’s local dish – kishimen noodles at the restaurant in the shrine ground.

How to get to Atsuta Shrine

Take Meijo Subway Line and alight at Jingu Nishi Station (M27) and walk towards the shrine for approximately 3 minutes.   If you have a JR Pass, ride the JR Tokaido Line from Nagoya Station to Atsuta Station.  Walk towards the shrine for about 10 minutes.

NAGASHIMA RESORT (Nabano no Sato)

9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (until 10:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday during winter illumination)

Entrance Fee

JPY 1600 (PHP 723/USD 15)- spring and autumn

JPY 1000 (PHP 452/USD 9) – summer

JPY 2300 (PHP 1,039/USD 21)  – winter illumination

The admission fee includes a  JPY 1000  (PHP 452/USD 9) gift certificate to be used inside the park.

How to get to Nagashima Resort (Nabano no Sato):

Take JR Kansai Line local for Kameyama.  Alight at Nagashima Station (during Winter Illumination) or Kuwana Station. Travel time is about 29 minutes.  Fare is JPY 320 (PHP 145 / USD 3).

Alternatively, you can also take a bus bound for Nagashima Onsen at Meitetsu Bus Center next to Nagoya Station.  Alight at Nabano no Sato or Nagashima Onsen.  Fare is about JPY 890 (PHP 402 /USD 8 ) to JPY 1,060 (PHP 479 / USD 10).

NAGOYA + CENTRAL JAPAN TOURS

Nagoya is the gateway to Central Japan, so it is highly recommended to include a tour to some of Central Japan’s most beautiful attractions including Shirakawago, Takayama, Nagayashima and Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route.

GOKAYAMA SUGANAM AND SHIRAKAWAGO BUS TOUR

With this tour, you’ll be able to visit 2 UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Suganama is part of Gokoyama known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. It is composed of Gokayama Gassho no Sato and Suganuma Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Ainokura Village and Ogimachi, the largest village in Shirakawago.     BOOK GOKAYAMA SUGANUMA AND SHIRAKAWAGO BUS TOUR HERE.

SHIRAKAWAGO AND TAKAYAMA TOUR

This tour is highly recommended, as you will get to the old district of Takayama and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawago Village.  Lunch buffet is included. You can  BOOK YOUR SHIRIKAWA VILLAGE + TAKAYAMA TOUR HERE .

NAGOYA DAY TRIPS

Shirakawago.

If you want to do a DIY Tour of Shirakawago plus Takayama and other destinations in Chubu Hokuriku region of Japan.  You can PURCHASE THE SHORYUDO HIGHWAY BUS PASS HERE  which enables you to hop on board an unlimited number of bus rides around the Chubu Hokuriku region of Japan. The 3 or 5 day bus ticket is a convenient way to navigate around the Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazama, Toyama and Nagoya areas.

HOW TO GET TO TAKAYAMA:

Take a bus bound for Takayama from Nagoya via JR Bus, Meitetsu or Nohi Bus.  Bus Terminal is at Nagoya Station or Oasis 21 Bus Terminal. One Way fare for Meitetsu Bus is JPY 2,980 (PHP 1,347 /USD 27), roundtrip fare is JPY 5,140 (PHP 2,323 / USD 47).

I suggest getting a 3 Day Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass  for about JPY 7,000 (PHP 3,199 / USD 65), because you get to enjoy a discount of over 35% from your travels around the Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazama, Toyama and Nagoya areas – all with one pass. So you don’t just visit Takayama, you can also visit the aforemntioned destinations.  There’s also a 5 day Pass.

Enjoy a discount of over 35% from your travels around the Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazama, Toyama and Nagoya areas – all with one pass.   PURCHASE THE SHORYUDO HIGHWAY BUS PASS HERE  

How to get there:

I recommend purchasing the Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass because you’ll save a lot.  The 3 day pass costs around JPY 7,000 (PHP 3,199 / USD 65).   PURCHASE THE SHORYUDO HIGHWAY BUS PASS HERE  

OTHER NAGOYA SIDE TRIPS

Magome and tsumago.

KUROBE TATAME ALPINE ROUTE

NAGOYA ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary for a 3 days 2 nights trip to Nagoya + Central Japan.  Feel free to tweak it depending on your schedule. I also blogged here our itinerary for 5 days 4 nights:   Nagoya Itinerary

NAGOYA BUDGET

Here’s a sample budget for a 3 day 2 night trip to Nagoya and Central Japan.  Of course, budget will vary depending on how long you’ll be staying, the activities and tours that you will try, the food, hotel and shpping.

  SAPPORO TRAVEL GUIDE

Nagoya 5 days 4 nights itinerary,  shirakawa-go from nagoya, osaka travel guide (budget + itinerary),   kyoto travel guide (budget + itinerary).

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Hi! I’ve just one question about the wifi rental, what if I arrive after their office in the airport closes? Do I have another option of claiming the wifi device? TIA

Hi Cherry, for Nagoya, looks like you can only claim it sa airport. 🙁

Good day Gael, it is possible not to book bus ticket in advance going to takayama from nagoya? Thanks!

Yep. But I think it’ll be more expensive if you don’t book in advance. When we crossed from Nagoya to Tokyo, we booked the day we were traveling and it was way more expensive. The price is almost double. 🙁

hi! we are planning to go to osaka, nara and kyoto from nagoya, what pass should we buy?

You can buy the Kansi Thru Pass or ICOCA Card. Read this https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/japan-ic-cards/ and this https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/jr-pass/

Hi, I have been to Osaka-Kyoto last year Nov. 2017. On Jan. 2019, we plan to experience winter in Japan and we will be staying in Takayama and Nagoya. Can I still use my ICOCA card when we travel by trains within Nagoya City by that time?

Kindly read this https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/japan-ic-cards/

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2023 nagoya japan travel guide blog: things to do, tourist spots, sample itinerary, hotels, and more.

Planning a trip to Nagoya, Japan?

Nagoya japan travel essentials.

• Private Nagoya Airport Transfer - Enjoy hassle-free and convenient transfer from Chubu Centrair International Airport to your hotel.
• Airport to Nagoya City Railway Ticket - Get from Central Japan International Airport to Nagoya City in as fast as 28 minutes with this railway transfer. This is one of the fastest options to get to the city from the airport, be sure to book your tickets in advance!
• 4G WiFi Device or a 4G eSIM for Japan from Softbank - Don't forget to rent a portable WiFi device or get an eSIM to stay connected to the internet in Japan, for your Instagram moments, and also for navigating the streets of Nagoya.
• Hotels in Nagoya - Search for the best hotels in Nagoya. From budget hostels and capsule hotels, to luxurious 5-star hotels, you'll certainly find the best hotels in Nagoya that will meet your needs and preferences.
• Japan Rail Pass - If you wish to travel to other prefectures, I highly recommend getting a JR Pass! It is available 7, 14 or 21 days unlimited travel around Japan including bullet trains or Shinkansen!

JAPAN: NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG

Useful tourist passes in nagoya.

• JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass - Enjoy 5 days of unlimited travel in Kanazawa, Toyama, Nagoya, Osaka, and more with a this pass! Get unlimited rides aboard limited express, express, rapid, and ordinary trains on JR conventional lines including buses and Hokuriku Shinkansen!
• JR Osaka - Nagoya 'Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Area Pass' - Take train & bus rides from Nagoya to Ise, Kumano, and Osaka with the Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Area Tourist Pass. Access 5 consecutive days of unlimited travel in Ise, Kumano, and Wakayama with a single area pass!
• Whole Japan Rail Pass - If you're planning a visit to Nagoya as part of a bigger Japan trip that covers multiple cities and prefectures, I highly recommend that you get a nationwide Japan JR Pass - available in 7, 14 and 21 days validity.

Nagoya Tourist Spots and Things to Do in Nagoya in Winter

1. kariya highway oasis.

2. Magome-juku

3. Matsumoto Castle

4. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

5. Shirakawa-go historic village

6. Takayama City

7. Gujo City/Gujo Hachiman

8. Winter illumination at Nabana no Sato

9. TOYOTA Commemorative Museum of Industry

10. Legoland

11. scmaglev and railway park.

WHERE TO STAY?

• Hotels in Japan are compact but well-furnished.
• You can expect that your room will have a bath tub, yukata (Japanese-style robe), towels, and Japanese toiletries.
• If you are smoker, you can request smoking rooms. For non-smokers, be sure to request a non-smoking one (sometimes they tend to overlook that part).
• You will always find a kettle in your room and green tea sachets.

1. Hotel Buena Vista Matsumoto

2. APA Hotel Toyama Ekimae

3. Business Hotel Gujo Hachiman

4. Tokyo Daiichi Hotel Nishiki

Where to Eat?

• The Japanese curate food from anything they deem edible. So expect to taste a lot of bizarre dishes with seafood and vegetables, ranging from a little weird to disgusting. For example, we were served tiny, raw octopus, and raw squid with mustard and gelatin in one plate.
• If you’re out in a formal Japanese dining facility, rice is served last. The set meals can be expensive, around 20,000 yen and up, and includes mostly vegetables and broth. You will rarely see fried food and the usual Japanese dishes we've grown up with like tempura and tonkatsu. Fortunately, there is always sashimi.
• What dessert? Dessert is not that popular here.
• Unlike the Philippines, it's rare to see a restaurant in Japan that has juices and soft drinks in the menu. They don't have it on display either. You will aways be served hot tea, as it is the norm in Japan.

2. Magomeya

3. Gomangoku

6. Yoshidaya

7. Kawasemi Japanese Restaurant

8. Hitsumabushi Nagoya Bincho

9. Kurobedaira

Where to Shop?

1. sakae area.

2. Jazz Dream Nagashima

Best Time to Go?

Getting In?

For ease and convenience in getting to your hotel in nagoya from the airport, you may book a private nagoya airport transfer or buy a central japan international airport to nagoya city railway ticket ..

What time is it?

Contact person for tours, sample 5 days 4 nights nagoya itinerary, day 1:flight to nagoya/ explore matsumoto, day 2: tateyama kurobe alpine route, day 3: shirakawa-go + takayama, day 4: gujo hachiman, day 5: nagoya city/sakae, nice-to-know facts about japan and the japanese.

• The Japanese are honest. You may forget your belongings, but you can and expect to find them in the same place after hours. If there are instances of people taking something that is not theirs, it is almost always a tourist.
• Zero crime. You won't encounter a robber, a hawker, or anyone similar even when you walk at night or at dawn. Japan is extremely safe.
• Locals are out-of-this-world helpful and polite. If you stepped on somebody's toe, he/she will apologize for it.
• It is normal to see male and female escorts in the Sakae area at night. They are harmless and are not nearly as pushy as hawkers in Boracay.
• Toilet bowls in Japan built-in bidet and are heated. You throw your used tissue into the bowl. INTO, not in the bin.

Nagoya Travel Blogs

• Shirakawa-go Travel Guide with Itinerary, Tours, How To Get There and Travel Tips
• 10 Best things to do in Nagoya
• Takayama Autumn Festival in Gifu Prefecture
• Japanese Food Sample Making at Sample Village Iwasaki in Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Japan
• Top 5 Best Things To Do at Laguna Ten Bosch in Gamagori, Aichi Japan
• Orange Picking at Gamagori Orange Park, Aichi Japan
• Toyota Museum and Plant Tour in Toyota City in Aichi Prefecture

Japan Travel Guide Blogs

• Tokyo Travel Guide Blog with ₱10,000 DIY Itinerary & Budget
• Nagoya Travel Guide Blog with Things to do, Tourist Spots, Itinerary, Hotels, and More!
• Kyoto Travel Guide Blog with Itinerary, Things to do, Tourist Spots, and More!
• Osaka and Kyoto Japan 4D3N Tour Itinerary
• Things to do in Osaka, Tourist Spots and Attractions

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1 comment :.

Hi, how much was your total budget for the 5 day itinerary you posted? Inclusive of all the tours and hotel accommodation?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Check out Updated Japan Travel Requirements for 2022

COVID Japan Travel Requirements for Foreigners for 2022 : This is the updated advisory for traveling passengers arriving in Japan. This is sourced from both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific COVID travel advisories.

As you plan your business or pleasure trip to Japan, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration. In this article, we will outline the Japan travel requirements for foreigners and provide information on the COVID restrictions that are currently in place. Here is a checklist of what you’ll need to do in order to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.

These travel requirements are for travel to Japan only. Looking for information when arriving in the Philippines from abroad? Check out the  COVID Travel Requirements for foreigners or returning overseas Filipinos arriving from abroad . Or click here for  General Travel Requirements for Destinations Within the Philippines .

Japan Requirements per Philippine Airlines Advisory: Haneda, Narita, Nagoya, Kansai, Fukuoka, Chitose (HND, NRT, NGO, KIX, FUK, CTS)

Allowed travelers.

• Japanese Nationals
• Non-Japanese Nationals with Permanent Residence/Residence Visa, and their dependents
• New entry Residents with Long-term Stay Visa
• Returning OFWs/trainees (with re-entry permit), and Sea Crew point to point and transit to Japan may enter Japan
• Foreign nationals who are acknowledged to have special exceptional circumstances by Japanese authorities may still enter Japan. 
• Travelers with visas issued prior to December 2, 2021, who acquire the status of “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident,” or “Diplomat”

Japan Travel Requirements: Medical Documents

• Negative COVID-19 Test (RT-PCR)  Result valid within seventy-two (72) hours prior to departure
• Certificate of inspection or  Certificate of Testing for Covid-19   within seventy-two (72) hours prior to departure. If a passenger is unable to submit the certificate, they will not be allowed to enter Japan based on Quarantine Law.

Japan Travel Requirements: Travel Documents

• Quarantine Forms  (shall be distributed in the cabin)
• Re-Entry Permit  (if applicable)
• Official letter from the Embassy of Japan or from the entity that the traveler will be working for  (if applicable)
• PH Bureau of Immigration Declaration Form
• For passengers whose COVID-19 test will be taken from any of  PAL’s Partner Laboratories , please register to  PAL Laboratory Partner e-CIF  as early as 5 days before departure.

Additional Japan travel requirements:

• Install OSSMA (Location information-confirming app)
• Install and sign-up for Skype
• Install and sign-up for MYSOS
• Install Covid-19 Contact-Confirming Application (COCOA)
• Set smartphone to save location information (settings on Google Maps, etc.)

Japan Travel Requirements: Quarantine Requirements

• For travelers coming from the Designated Countries/Regions with booster shots, they can proceed to 3D home quarantine.
• For unvaccinated/partially travelers or those who received a full dose of vaccine but without booster shot, they can proceed to 3D quarantine in a Japan Government Facility
• Travelers from the Philippines are required to quarantine for three (3) days at a government accommodation facility
• For more quarantine protocol information, please visit  https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html#section3
• Disclaimer : This is only an advisory from the referring airline. Travel restrictions are subject to change without notice by the issuing local government authority. As a result, the requirements or restrictions listed above are not real-time and should be used only as a guide. Please verify your requirements with the official offices, pages, or websites of both your origin and destinations directly.
• Source:  Philippine Airlines COVID-19 Travel Advisory
• Philippine Airlines Travel Requirements for All Destinations
• Philippine Airlines Travel Insurance Covid-19-Related Benefits
• Philippine Airlines Promos for 2022
• Philippine Airlines Flight Schedule
• Philippine Airlines Cancelled Flights
• Philippine Airlines Baggage Allowance
• Philippine Airlines Travel Advisory
• Philippine Airlines Flight Status
• Philippine Airlines Refund Rebooking Travel Fund
• Philippine Airlines Hotline and Contact Numbers

Japan Travel Requirements per Cebu Pacific Advisory

Updated as of June 1, 2022

As per Government regulations, guests bound for Japan must take note of these travel guidelines:

Japan Travel Requirements: Entry Regulations

Only the following are allowed to enter Japan:

• Spouse and/or Child of Japanese Nationals

The following may be allowed to enter, subject to exceptional circumstances and the approval of Japan Immigration:

• Foreigners / Permanent Residents with Re-Entry Permit and Visa
• Spouse and/or Child of Permanent Residents
• Foreign Nationals entering Japan under the supervision of receiving organizations (i.e., for business/employment)
• Returnees / Immigrants from countries classified as “Blue” (which includes the Philippines), if they’re able to show at least three (3) doses of a valid COVID-19 vaccine
• Effective on June 10, 2022 – Tourists from countries classified as “Blue”, provided that they’re part of a certified tour group.

Japan Travel Requirements: Please present printed copies of the following.

• RT-PCR nasopharyngeal / nasopharynx swab;
• Saliva RT-PCR; or
• RT-PCR nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swab.
• Name, Passport Number, Nationality, Date of Birth, Sex
• Testing method for COVID-19 sample
• The result, specimen collection date and time, test result date, date of issue
• Name of the medical institution, address of the medical institution, signature of a doctor, an imprint of a seal
• Written pledge to quarantine/pledge that there is no false statement in the Vaccine Certificate or COVID-19 Test Certificate
• Submit the online questionnaire as per Article 12 of the Japan Quarantine Act. Please use this  link  to access the questionnaire. This is also distributed upon check-in.
• MySOS  – required for answering video calls from persons-in-charge to confirm your location
• Google Maps – required to provide location history to health authorities to track possible exposure to COVID-19
• COVID-19 Contact Confirming Application (COCOA) – to receive notifications about the possibility of contact with people who may have COVID-19
• These mobile applications are available on Google Play Store for Android users, and App Store for iOS users. Please make sure that location services are enabled. Guests without smartphones should rent one at the airport upon arrival in Japan.

Japan Travel Requirements: Quarantine Guidelines

Click here for pre-registration for quarantine.

Visit this link for complete guidelines for traveling to Japan.

These are the updated Japan Travel Requirements we have as of the date indicated. Requirements may change from time to time without prior notice. Please continue checking with the Japan government for the latest updates.

• Disclaimer: This is only an advisory from the referring airline. Travel restrictions are subject to change without notice by the issuing local government authority. As a result, the requirements or restrictions listed above are not real-time and should be used only as a guide. Please verify your requirements with the official offices, pages or websites of both your origin and destinations directly.
• Source : Cebu Pacific COVID-19 Travel Advisory
• Cebu Pacific Travel Requirements for All Destinations
• Cebu Pacific Domestic Flight Requirements
• Cebu Pacific Promos for 2022
• Cebu Pacific Flight Schedule
• Cebu Pacific Cancelled Flights
• Cebu Pacific Rebooking
• Cebu Pacific Travel Fund
• Cebu Pacific Baggage Policy and Fees
• Cebu Pacific Terminal Assignment
• Cebu Pacific Travel Advisory
• Cebu Pacific Flight Status
• Cebu Pacific Hotline and Contact Numbers

COVID Japan Travel Requirements for Arriving Local Passengers Disclaimer: Please note that there may be multiple travel requirements for each international destination. These rules are subject to change by the issuing foreign government authority and are issued for our passengers’ and the public’s safety. As these requirements may change at short notice, the advisories above serve as a general guide.

Latest Promos to and From Japan

Cheapest Cebu Pacific Japan Promo Alert: P2,499 Sale for Nov 2022 to March 2023 Travel

Cheapest Cebu Pacific Asia Promo Alert: P999 Sale for Nov 2022 to March 2023 Travel

Don’t Miss out on Philippine Airlines Sale to International Destinations for as Low as $89 One Way Base Fare

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With regards to visa inquiries, you can contact “Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information” or “the Japan Visa Information Hotline” listed on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan. Due to the complex nature of visa requirements, we are UNABLE to respond to visa-related inquiries made through this website at the moment. We advise you to contact the Consular Section of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan nearest you for more information and advice.

If you are a foreign national, please click the links below for specific information related to respective subjects.

1. Visa Application Procedures

2. about visa.

• 3. Visa Application Documents

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. announcements.

• 6. Inquiries Concerning Visas
• Be aware of fraudulent website, social media, emails in an attempt to extract payments from visa applicants (July 5, 2017)

Short-Term Stay

(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities)

Click on the nationality of the visa applicant traveling to Japan.

Visa exemption arrangements have been resumed from 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan. Overseas travel medical insurance helps you in case of emergency.

Work or Long-Term Stay

(A stay during which the applicant performs remunerative work in Japan or a stay of over 90 days in Japan, etc.)

• Procedures chart for long-term stays
• The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening

Visa for Medical Stay

Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

• Points to Note and Application Procedures
• Visa Processing Time
• Validity of a Visa
• Criteria of Visa Issuance
• Visas and Landing Permission

3. Visa Application Documents (download)

• (Note1) Refer to [1. Visa Application Procedures] for details of documents required.
• (Note3) Visa application forms that are not in the QR code (PDF) format cannot be saved. Please print a paper copy of the Visa application.
• Visa application form
• Tell me why you rejected my visa application.
• I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
• I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?
• What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?
• The Certificate of Eligibility will not arrive by the time I apply for a visa. Can I still apply for a visa with its copy?
• As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

Newly introduced visas

• Special highly skilled professional (J-Skip)
• Designated activities (Future creation individual, Spouse or Child of future creation individual) (J-Find)
• Designated activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad)

Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan

• Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel
• Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Statistics for the Number of Visas

• Number of Visas Issued in 2021(May 31,2022)

Relaxation of Visa Requirements

• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Possession of Ordinary Passports(September 30, 2023)
• Signing of the Japan-Israel Working Holiday Agreement (April 28, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the State of Qatar based on Ordinary Passport Registration System (April 2, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the United Arab Emirates in Possession of Ordinary Passports (November 1, 2022)
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (April 3, 2020)
• Japan's Visa Policy in Accordance with Measures to Combat Trafficking in Persons (February 2009)

6. Inquiries about Visas Application

Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information

Yotsuya Tower 13F, 1-6-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0004 Navi-Dial: 0570-011000 (For some IP phones and calls from overseas, please call +81-3-5369-6577) Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00

Related Links

• Websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions