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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Nagakute sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to Nagakute, a city bursting with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.
From cultural sights to natural wonders, Nagakute has something for everyone.
It’s time to put on your explorer hat and embark on a journey that will leave you amazed and awestruck.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Nagakute.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nagakute:
1. SCMAGLEV and Railway Park – Nagoya
SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is a museum dedicated to showcasing the history and technology behind Japan’s world-renowned trains, including the pioneering superconducting maglev or “SCMAGLEV” trains.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibit halls and immersive displays, featuring full-scale train models, interactive simulators, and actual train cabins and parts.
The park also has an outdoor field where visitors can see real SCMAGLEV test runs.
Don’t miss: The main highlight of the museum is the SCMAGLEV Experience, where visitors can ride a high-speed train simulator and feel the sensation of traveling at over 300 mph.
The museum also features a gift shop and a restaurant serving railway-themed dishes.
Insider travel tips:
2. Nagoya City Science Museum
Nagoya City Science Museum is a highly interactive science museum in Nagakute, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features four floors of exhibits, including a planetarium, a giant spherical screen theater, and a hands-on science discovery hall.
Visitors can learn about physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy through a variety of interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Don’t miss: The star attraction is the world’s largest planetarium screen, measuring 35 meters in diameter.
Visitors can also check out the giant tornado and earthquake simulators, and try their hand at conducting science experiments at the discovery hall.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to avoid long queues for popular exhibits.
3. Nagoya Castle
A historically significant castle situated in Nagoya, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning architecture and detailed design of Nagoya Castle, explore the castle grounds and visit the various museums and exhibitions inside.
Don’t miss: Witness a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in one of the tea houses located inside the castle grounds. Take a stroll through the beautiful surrounding gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to visit during cherry blossom season when the castle and grounds are in full bloom and at their most picturesque.
Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls located just outside the castle after a long day of exploring.
4. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium
The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is a state-of-the-art-and-science aquarium that showcases different marine species from all over the world.
What to see or do: This aquarium offers a wide range of exhibits that features various sea creatures such as dolphins, sea lions, penguins, whales, sharks, and many more.
You can also watch feeding sessions and attend live shows featuring sea mammals.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the aquarium is the gigantic Kuroshio Tank, which is an impressive 30-meter-long acrylic tank that displays the Kuroshio Current, known as one of the world’s most powerful ocean currents.
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Make sure to catch the dolphin and sea lion shows as they are a must-see.
If you’re traveling with children, they will love the outdoor touch pool area where they can interact with friendly sea creatures.
5. Atsuta Jingu Shrine
One of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, located in Nagakute.
What to see or do: Atsuta Jingu Shrine houses over 4,000 national treasures, including swords and mirrors. Visitors can see the honden (main hall), the treasure hall, and the Noh theater.
The shrine is surrounded by a peaceful forested area, perfect for a stroll.
Don’t miss: The famous Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi sword, one of the three imperial regalia of Japan, is enshrined here. Visitors can only see a replica, but its historical and cultural significance is awe-inspiring.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid large crowds. Also, don’t forget to try the local specialty, Atsuta-yaki, a grilled eel dish.
6. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is a museum located in Nagakute, Japan that showcases the history of Toyota and the development of the textile machinery industry.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits explaining the history of the textile industry and see demonstrations of the machines used to create textiles.
The museum also has exhibits on the history of Toyota, including the development of its automobiles, engines, and robotics.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to see the loom machines in action and how textiles are made.
The museum also has a section dedicated to Toyota’s robotics technology and the future of manufacturing.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to plan enough time to explore the museum thoroughly and read the explanations of the exhibits.
Additionally, the museum is easily accessible from Nagoya Station by taking the Higashiyama subway line to Fujigaoka Station and transferring to the Linimo automated railway to the museum.
7. Nagoya TV Tower
A broadcasting tower located in Nagoya, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck for a stunning panoramic view of Nagoya. The tower also has a restaurant and gift shop.
Don’t miss: The stunning night view of Nagoya from the observation deck.
Insider travel tips: Go during sunset and stay until dark to see the city lights turn on. It can get crowded during peak season, so consider going during off-peak times for a better experience.
8. Oasis 21
A futuristic and stylish shopping complex in Nagakute, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views from the rooftop garden or take a stroll along the water feature that runs through the center of the complex.
Check out the unique shops and restaurants, including a craft beer brewery and a variety of local food vendors.
Don’t miss: The LED-lit escalator with a glass roof that provides a spectacular view of the surrounding cityscape.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening to see the complex lit up and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and charging stations available throughout the complex.
9. Tokugawa Art Museum
The Tokugawa Art Museum is a cultural institution that preserves and exhibits the priceless cultural artifacts and treasures of the Tokugawa family.
What to see or do: Explore the museum’s vast collection of ancient Japanese art, including ceramics, lacquer work, calligraphy, and paintings. Admire the intricate craftsmanship of swords, armor, and other weapons from the Edo period.
Be awed by the meticulously maintained gardens that envelope the museum in natural beauty.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the priceless treasures of the Tokugawa family, including the famous tea ceremony utensils used by the legendary Sen no Rikyu.
Insider travel tips: Visit on weekdays when there are fewer visitors to avoid the crowds. Take a guided tour to deepen your appreciation for the art and artifacts.
Don’t forget to try the museum’s delicious matcha tea and sweets, which are made using traditional recipes.
10. Osu Shopping Arcade
Osu Shopping Arcade is a traditional covered shopping arcade in the city of Nagakute, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse a wide range of shops selling everything from clothing and electronics to traditional Japanese souvenirs and gifts. The arcade has a lively atmosphere with street performers and food stalls selling local snacks such as takoyaki and taiyaki.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Osu Shopping Arcade is the Osu Kannon Temple, a Buddhist temple located at the end of the arcade.
Visitors can explore the temple’s ornate halls and pagodas, and admire its beautiful gardens.
Insider travel tips: – Osu Shopping Arcade can get crowded, so it’s best to visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
11. Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens Nagoya
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens Nagoya is a popular attraction located in Nagakute, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the zoo and see a variety of animals, including polar bears, lions, giraffes, and many more. The botanical gardens are also a must-visit, featuring a stunning collection of plant life from around Japan and the world.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the giant panda exhibit, where visitors can see these adorable creatures up close. The zoo also offers a range of activities for children, including a petting zoo, playgrounds, and educational exhibits.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the zoo and botanical gardens on weekdays. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo is quite large and there is a lot to see.
Don’t forget to try some of the delicious food vendors located throughout the park, serving up everything from local Japanese favorites to international cuisine.
12. Nagoya Port Wildflower Garden Bluebonnet
Nagoya Port Wildflower Garden Bluebonnet is a picturesque park located in Nagakute, Japan.
What to see or do: The park is widely renowned for its beautiful flowers, particularly the bluebonnets that bloom in spring.
Visitors can take a stroll in the garden paths lined with lovely wildflowers and take memorable pictures amidst the colorful scenery.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the stunning bluebonnets that are the highlight of the park, mainly in late March and early April.
Insider travel tips: Try to avoid peak hours to avoid crowds and get a better chance to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
Additionally, visit the park during weekdays to avoid waiting time and have a pleasant experience.
13. Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum
A museum dedicated to ceramics showcasing over 3000 exhibits from Japan and around the world.
What to see or do: View a variety of pottery and porcelain pieces spanning different historical periods, styles and regions. Learn about the ceramic-making process, join the interactive workshops, and take a refreshing stroll in the museum’s beautiful garden.
Don’t miss: The enormous Shino Ware Mizusashi, the vast Oribe teapot collection, and the strikingly beautiful Kutani Ware.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for information on temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events.
14. Legoland Japan
Legoland Japan is a popular theme park in Nagakute, Japan, featuring a variety of attractions and rides based on the iconic Lego bricks.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy more than 40 rides, shows, and attractions in seven themed areas, including Lego City, Pirate Shores, and Knight’s Kingdom.
There are also interactive play areas, Lego building workshops, and opportunities to meet life-sized Lego characters. The park also features a water park with wave pools, water slides, and other aquatic attractions.
Don’t miss: – The Miniland section, which showcases Lego models of famous Japanese landmarks, such as Tokyo Station and Mount Fuji, as well as iconic international locations like the Taj Mahal and Akihabara.
Insider travel tips: – Beat the crowds by arriving early in the morning or visiting on a weekday.
15. Noritake Garden
Noritake Garden is a complex in Nagakute, Japan, which was built on the site of the old Noritake factory.
This sprawling compound houses a variety of attractions, including a museum displaying the history of Noritake’s ceramics production, a shopping mall selling Noritake products, several restaurants, and a large garden.
What to see or do: Explore the Noritake Museum, which features exhibits displaying the history of Noritake’s ceramics production, the creative process, and modern designs. Check out the factory outlet to get some discounted Noritake products.
Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and take in the seasonal flora. There are several restaurants and cafes serving traditional Japanese meals and snacks, as well as international cuisine.
Don’t miss: Visit the Noritake Store, a large showroom that sells Noritake’s latest furniture, tableware, and other ceramic products.
Catch a glimpse of the stunningly designed Kiln Plaza, an open-air theater area filled with the kilns that were once in use at the Noritake factory.
Admire the beautiful scenery and calming atmosphere of the gardens, particularly the Karesansui Garden, a traditional Japanese rock garden.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to plan your visit around the seasonal events schedule, as Noritake Garden offers various seasonal activities such as cherry blossom viewing, illumination events, and flower exhibitions.