What other travelers are saying about Nagoya Castle
If you’re visiting Nagoya, this is a must-see attraction. Nagoya Castle is not only historically significant but also visually stunning, especially during cherry blossom season.
The reconstructed main keep gives a great sense of the grandeur of the original structure, and the museum inside provides fascinating insights into the history of the Owari Tokugawa family.
The surrounding park is peaceful and perfect for a relaxing stroll. Highly recommended for history lovers and casual tourists alike!
Affordable ¥500 entrance for adults. I believe the castle is closing soon for extensive restorations, that seem needed. During my visit in June of 2025 you can already spot construction vehicles and work sites beginning.
The gift shops are worth visiting and have some unique and quality items.
Drink machines can be found conveniently throughout the grounds.
After the main entrance connected to the bathrooms and drink machines there is a nice stamp to be collected.
Nagoya Castle was just okay overall. While the structure itself is impressive and definitely cool to see from the outside, it was a bit disappointing that the main tower was closed to the public. That really took away from the experience, as going inside and exploring is usually the highlight of visiting a historic castle.
The surrounding grounds are pleasant, and the exterior architecture is beautiful, but without access to the main keep, it felt like something was missing. Worth a quick visit if you're in the area, but not a must-see unless the main tower reopens.
The vast castle grounds of Nagoya Castle include broad walkways and shady spots ideal for a leisurely stroll. Even though the site appears spectacular from the outside, some people may find the restored Honmaru Palace disappointing because no historical objects are on show and other areas are still being built. It may not be worth the admission price for all tourists because it places more emphasis on architectural beauty than historical significance. Nonetheless, the grounds are excellent for shooting photos, especially with the imposing castle tower in the background, and they provide a complimentary photo memento. It's still an excellent stop for a beautiful walk and cultural understanding, especially if you're already close by, because it has lots of trees and quiet spots.
Nagoya Castle is currently undergoing renovation work, so visitors aren’t able to enter the main keep itself at the moment. Although it’s a bit disappointing not to be able to explore the castle’s interior, there’s still plenty to see around the grounds.
One of the highlights is visiting the Honmaru Goten Palace, which was historically used as the living quarters and audience halls for the ruling family. The palace has been beautifully reconstructed, showcasing stunning traditional architecture, lavish gold-leaf screens, and intricate woodwork that offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the samurai and nobility.
Be prepared for a bit of a wait to enter, as there’s often a queue outside, especially during weekends or holidays. Also, you’ll need to remove your shoes before stepping inside, so wearing easy-to-slip-off footwear is a good idea.
Despite the main castle being closed, Nagoya Castle remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The castle grounds are spacious and lovely to stroll through, and the surrounding gardens add to the serene atmosphere. For history buffs or architecture enthusiasts, it’s still very much worth the trip.
