What other travelers are saying about Nagoya Castle
The castle, or rather part of it, is obviously very beautiful, but unfortunately the main building, i.e. the actual castle, is not open to visitors. Renovation work has been ongoing since 2018, as the castle was seriously damaged during an earthquake. Only the gardens are open to visitors, something like the outer bailey, i.e., the representative rooms where you can admire the craftsmanship of Japanese renovations. The castle was completely destroyed during World War II, with only the foundations surviving, so what we visit is a magnificent reconstruction. Overall, it is worth visiting this place. It may not be as spectacular as other castles, such as those in Osaka or Kyoto, but it is worth spending an hour visiting this site. Important information: you visit the castle along a set route, wearing slippers. I recommend leaving your bags in the cloakroom, otherwise you will have to carry them in front of you. We visited on a very rainy day, and despite this, the queue was very long. The ticket price is 500 yen, so it is worth arriving early and buying a ticket. People with disabilities, e.g., in wheelchairs, will not be able to see the exhibition, as it is narrow, the route has many turns and narrow turns, and the entrance is not wheelchair accessible.
Visiting Nagoya Castle was a delightful experience. The grand architecture and the iconic golden shachihoko shining atop the roof were truly impressive. The grounds were spacious and beautifully maintained, perfect for a relaxing walk, and the reconstructed Honmaru Palace showcased stunning craftsmanship and rich history. Although the main keep (tenshukaku) is currently closed, there’s still plenty to see and enjoy, from well-curated exhibits to helpful multilingual guides. It’s a must-visit spot that beautifully blends cultural depth with visual charm.
Admission is 500 yen. There are three lines for the tickets. Two are cash only, and one accepts cards. The main castle is closed but you can walk through the reconstructed Hommaru Palace… it is very beautiful!
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.
Nagoya Castle was an enjoyable experience, and the castle-building itself is a sight to behold. We also managed to take a walk through the nearby Palace, which has been restored to its former glory. The main castle, however, was still undergoing repairs, and thus we could not enter. The grounds are pretty large and there are plenty of opportunities for taking photos.
Visitors can still explore the castle grounds, gardens, and exhibition areas during this time.
Yes, English-guided tours are offered daily at designated times. Audio guides in multiple languages are also available for rent.
Unfortunately, the castle is only open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM in the daytime.
Photography is allowed in most castle areas, but flash photography is prohibited. Please be respectful and refrain from taking photos in designated no-photography areas.
Yes, Nagoya Castle often hosts seasonal events and special exhibitions that showcase different aspects of its history and culture. Be sure to check the official website for updates on upcoming events.
