Nagoya Food Guide

Nagoya Food Guide: What To Eat in Nagoya

posted in: Asia Food Guide, Chubu Japan | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

To learn about the Nagoya must-eat food, read our Nagoya food guide with all the best food as well as a recommended restaurant if you are looking for what to eat in Nagoya.

Being Japan’s third busiest city, Nagoya is an important access place for travelers visiting the Chubu region. It also offers a stop on the Shinkansen ride when traveling from Tokyo and Kyoto. But, Nagoya is more than just a stopping point when visiting Japan. There are so many interesting attractions to see and delicious food to eat in Nagoya. We like the variety of food that we tried on our visit to Nagoya. The mouthwatering local cuisine is an unforgettable experience for our trip.

This Nagoya food guide can give you some idea of the best food to eat in Nagoya. Most importantly, where to find all the most delicious culinary delights.

What To Eat in Nagoya?

Nagoya cuisine is unique in its way and taste. It has been cultivated with miso, one of the important seasonings used for many Nagoya cuisine. To learn about the culture and history of Nagoya, we suggest you allocate some time to try the must-eat food in Nagoya. You will find out there is no other way to find so many unique foods that can be only found in Nagoya.

Nagoya Food Guide: Top 6 Must-Eat Food in Nagoya

  • Nagoya Style Breakfast
  • Hitsumabushi (Unagi Rice)
  • Miso Nikomi Udon (Udon Noodles Simmered in Miso Broth)
  • Miso Katsu (Panko Miso Pork Cutlet)
  • Tebasaki (Nagoya Fried Chicken)
  • Uiro (Nagoya Traditional Sweet)

If you’re curious about the best food listed, read on for more details on where to try them during your visit to Nagoya.

What are the top five must-eat foods in Nagoya?

The top 5 must-eat foods in Nagoya are Hitsumabushi, Tebasaki, Miso Katsu, Miso Udon, and Nagoya-style breakfast.

Why Nagoya food is so special?

Nagoya is unique in its own way, especially since most of the food has cultivated with miso or tamari. The miso is the most important seasoning in Nagoya cuisine and gives a strong taste to Nagoya cuisine.

What food is Nagoya famous for?

Hitsumabushi, probably is the most famous food in Nagoya. The freshwater eel (unagi), which is typically grilled, slathered in a rich, dark sauce, and served over rice is extremely delicious.

Nagoya Style Breakfast

Nagoya Komeda Coffee
Nagoya Style Breakfast

First of all, we are starting with the Nagoya breakfast tradition culture in our Nagoya food guide. Nagoya has a special breakfast culture, called morning service (モーニングサービス. mouninugu saabisu) which developed only in the region around Nagoya.

When you order a drink in the morning at a Nagoya cafe, you will get a morning service for free. This often includes a toast with the spread for your toast, boiled egg, miso soup, or salad depending on the cafe. For the price of a drink, you will get a complete set of breakfast. Such a great deal!

Best Place for Nagoya Style Breakfast:

Komeda’s Cafe is the most popular Kissaten for Nagoya-style breakfast. Origin from Nagoya, Komeda’s Cafe is now a popular local chain cafe that can be found all over the country. Normally, a breakfast set costs less than ¥500 for a drink and complimentary toast with spread. We highly recommend trying the Ogura set which is served with a toast with Ogura sweet bean paste spread. Another specialty that can be only found in Nagoya.

Opening Hours: From 7:00 to 22:00. The morning service starts from 7:00 to 11:00.
Address: It can be found all over Nagoya. Just look for the closest shop.
Price: around ¥500.
Website: http://www.komeda.co.jp/

Hitsumabushi

Nagoya Food Guide - Hitsumabushi
Hitsumabushi

Next on the Nagoya food guide is the Hitsumabushi (unagi rice). Originating around the Meiji period, the Hitsumabushi is prepared in the unique Nagoya style. The Japanese eel is handled with care where the bones are removed without damage to the body. The whole eel is then grilled in the open charcoal and served in an individual bowl with wooden tubs to each customer.

There are a few simple steps to taste this real delicacy in Japan. Firstly, separate the bowl of unagi rice into four portions. Then, try the first portion of unagi with plain rice without adding anything for the most original taste of unagi. Next, mixed the unagi rice with condiments such as spring onion, wasabi, and seaweed. You can then pour the hot broth into the third portion of unagi rice. Lastly, enjoy the fourth portion based on your liking from the above three ways.

It is my favorite food and one of the must-try food in the Nagoya food guide. However, please take note that the price to taste this real delicacy is not cheap. A bowl of Hitsumabushi can easily cost more than ¥3,000. But still, prepare to queue to taste this Nagoya’s best food.

Best Hitsumababushi in Nagoya

Nagoya Must Eat - Hitsumabushi
Hitsumabushi from Atsuta Houraiken Honten

The restaurant serves the best Hitsumabushi in Nagoya:

  • Atsuta Houraiken Honten (あつた蓬莱軒 本店) probably is the best restaurant serving the most delicious Hitsumabushi in Nagoya. Founded in 1873, Atsuta Houraiken Honten is the origin of the mouthwatering Hitsumabushi that started in Nagoya and even Japan. The Hitsumabushi is also a registered trademark of Atsuta Horaiken.
  • Alternatively, try the Hitsumabushi in Maruya Honten (まるや 本店). This is the best place where you can try the Hitsumabushi around Nagoya Station. The shop is located in the Meitetsu Department StoreMeitetsu Department Store at Nagoya Station.
  • Hitsumabushi Inou is another popular Hitsumabushi specialty shop in Nagoya. It served the Hitsumabushi in different sizes whereas the mini Hitsumabushi is served at a cheaper price tag compared with the normal size. One of the great options for budget travelers is to try the Hitsumabushi.

We visited Atsuta Houraiken and Maruya Honten for its superb and succulent Hitsumabushi in Nagoya. Continue reading on my food review here:

Miso Nikomi Udon

Miso Nikomi Udon
Miso Nikomi Udon

Another miso-based Nagoya specialties are Miso Nikomi Udon (味噌煮込みうどん), which literally means simmered udon noodles in miso. Nagoya used the “Haccho miso”, a brown color salty miso paste made from fermented soybeans to make this unique dish. The “Haccho miso” is used to simmer the udon noodles together with other fresh ingredients like green onion, shiitake mushrooms, chicken, tofu, and served piping hot in a small earthen pot.

The rich broth fills your senses on the first sip. While the udon noodles are also super slurp-able and in good texture. Truly a heartwarming comfort food especially on a cold winter day.

For the best Miso Nikomi Udon, please visit the famed Yamamotoya Honten. It is one of the oldest restaurants and its secret family recipe has been passed down for generations. It only serves the Miso Nikomi Udon shop but in different variations come in the different topping. A simple dish that must eat in Nagoya.

Yamamotoya Honten
Price: about ¥1,500
Opening Hours: From 10:00 to 22:00.

Miso Katsu

Nagoya Food Guide - Miso Katsu
Miso Katsu

The Miso Katsu (みそかつ) is one of the Nagoya versions of Tonkatsu. It is another type of tonkatsu dish with a deep-fried port cutlet topped with flavorful miso sauce. It normally is served with shredded cabbage, a bowl of rice, and soup, which make it a complete meal.

Generally, the pork cutlet is coated with bread crumbs and deep-fried into a golden brown. It is crispy on the outside yet juicy inside. The secret of the mouthwatering miso katsu is their special sweet and savory miso sauce, which makes the breaded pork cutlet into an entirely different dish.

Best Miso Katsu in Nagoya:

  • The most famous miso katsu restaurant in Nagoya is Misokatsu Yabaton, which served the katsu miso for more than 70 years. You will find several outlets for Misokatsu Yabaton throughout the city. We visited the Misokatsu Yabaton in the Esca underground shopping street in Nagoya station. The miso katsu was so flavorful and wonderfully addictive. High recommended!
  • Alternatively, try the Ajidokoro Kanau (味処叶). It is a long-established store that declares the birthplace of the delicious miso katsudon. One of the local favorite restaurants in Nagoya.

Tebasaki

Popular Tebasaki in Nagoya
Tebasaki

Next, the Tebasaki (手羽先) is Nagoya’s deep-fried spicy chicken wings. The chicken wings are flavored with secret ingredients and spices and then deep-fried into perfection. The flavorful chicken wings are extremely popular in Nagoya. Locals love to enjoy their dinner or supper with the tasty Tebasaki. It is even perfectly to accompaniment with a cold pint of beer or sake in the izakaya with friends and family.

Besides, there is a special local way to eat the Tebasaki without having a scrap left on the bone. Just pulling out the meat with one swipe! Make sure to try the Tebasaki when visiting Nagoya.

Tebasaki from Sekai no Yamachan
The Best Tebasaki in Nagoya – Sekai no Yamachan

The best Tebasaki is served in the Sekai no Yamachan. It is the most popular restaurant specializing in Nagoya-style Tebasaki. The secret to the popularity of Yamachan is their mouth-tingling spices which are seasoned with special ingredients and techniques on the chicken wings. Nowadays, you can find numerous Yamacan outlets throughout Nagoya and even Japan. It even opens its oversea store in Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, and Hongkong.

Complete read in Sekai no Yamachan: Nagoya Famous Tebasaki

Sekai no Yamachan
Price: A set of Tebasaki costs about ¥500 for 5 pieces of chicken wings
Opening Hours: From 17:00 to 00:00.
Address: It can be found all over Nagoya. Just look for the closest shop.

Nagoya Traditional Sweet: Uiro

Osu Uiro
Uiro

Lastly, don’t forget to try the Nagoya traditional sweet, Uiro. It is said that Uiro has been produced since the Edo period and is recognized as Nagoya Uiro to the whole of Japan. The Uiro is made from rice flour, sugar, and water. It is then steamed into a rectangular shape with added subtle flavors such as cherry blossom, red bean, green tea, brown sugar, yuzu citrus, and more.

Uiro is a popular souvenir to bring home to friends and family after a visit to Nagoya. It can be found in department stores and souvenir shops. But the most popular Uiro specialties shop can be found in Uso. The Osu Uiro and Aoyagi Uiro offer the best Uiro in different varieties.

A box of Uiro normally costs about ¥600 for 5 pieces of Uiro.

Overview: Nagoya Best Food

All in all, Nagoya is a city that will not disappoint your taste buds. We ended our Nagoya food tour with a happy tummy. We managed to try all the must-eat food during my 2-days trip to Nagoya. The only complaint was that we could not try for the second time due to the limited time in Nagoya. From the Nagoya style breakfast, mouthwatering Hitsumabushi, the miso inspires katsu and udon to the traditional Uiro sweet. Definitely one would enjoy the best food in Nagoya.

So, did you find anything you like in this Nagoya food guide? Make sure to try one of the best food during the visit. It would be a waste if you do not get to try them when you go to Nagoya. Enjoy your Nagoya food trip!

Lastly, below is the useful Nagoya travel guide including Nagoya itinerary planning, things to do and see, and where to stay in Nagoya.

Planning for a Chubu itinerary to Takayama, Kamikochi, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, and other interesting places in central Japan? Feel free to continue to read on our Chubu travel blog.

8-Days Chubu Itinerary: Complete Central Japan Travel Guide

Related Chubu travel blog:

Where To Stay In Nagoya

Where To Stay in Nagoya [Top 4 Best Places in Nagoya]

posted in: Accommodation, Chubu Japan | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Whether you are family with kids, couples, backpackers, or a first-time visitor visiting Nagoya. Here is the accommodation guide on where to stay in Nagoya.

Nagoya, the capital city of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, is located in the central Chubu region. This lively city is the manufacturing hub of Japan. Besides, Nagoya is also an important entry point to various interesting places to Nagoya and nearby. Although Nagoya is relatively small. Still, it can be tough to figure out what is the best place to stay in Nagoya.

In this Nagoya accommodation guide, we best pick the best hotels and areas to help you decide on where to stay in Nagoya.

Quick Tips: Where To Stay in Nagoya

Best Place To Stay in Nagoya

First of all, there are many areas that offer the best hotels to stay in Nagoya. It can be range from 5-star luxury stay, 3-star to 4-star middle range, and even budget hostels to suit all the budget.

Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Nagoya check prices for Nogoya Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Nagoya Hotel Guide

  • Staying directly connected with Nagoya Station for a hassle-free transport arrangement.
  • Stay in Nakamura Ward with walking distance to Nagoya Station.
  • Sakae District: The best place to stay in Nagoya, the home of the most happening area in Nagoya.
  • Nishiki district is the upscale area in town with a lot of entertainment and great dining restaurants.

Let check out below the best hotels on where to stay in Nagoya.

Nagoya Station

Nagoya station is a great place to stay if you are taking trains frequently. It is connected with other attractions in Nagoya, Chubu region, and also Chubu Centrair Airport. For hassle-free, staying directly connected with Nagoya station will help you save a lot of time and energy. It is also a great choice for a family with kids without worry about finding the hotel once arriving in Nagoya.

Nagoya Best Hotel - Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel

Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel is an elegant hotel directly connected to the Nagoya JR station. The location is truly excellent by rising above the station. Well decorated hotel, courteous and nice staff, spacious room and comfortable bed. A very great hotel in every aspect.

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel is one of the top sellers for the best stay in Nagoya. It directly connected to JR Station, making it one of the great choices for travelers looking for a convenient stay. The excellent location also makes travelers easily to get to and from other interesting places and nearby.

Nakamura Ward

The Nakamura Ward is the best area to stay in Nagoya. The important Chubu transportation hub, Nagoya station is situated in the Nakamura ward. We recommended staying nearby the Nakamura ward with walking distance to the train and bus station. It will ease your transport arrangement for getting around.

Nagoya Best Hotel - Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier
Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier

Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier is situated a 5-minute walk away and connected to the underground path to Nagoya station. Comfortable room, stylish design, and great ambiance. Besides, your stay also features with an onsite public bath where you can unwind your self after a tiring trip in Nagoya. It is a great choice for travelers to look for convenience in public transport and quality stay with super service provided. 

Hotel Resol
Hotel Resol Nagoya

Hotel Resol Nagoya has been recently renovated and offers modern accommodation for your best stay in Nagoya. It features with spacious rooms located 5 minutes away from the Nagoya Station. Each room in the hotel is fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a tea and fridge. Free luggage storage can be found at the 24-hour front desk which is a great plus.

Where To Stay in Nagoya - Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Ekimae
Hotel Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Ekimae

Hotel Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Ekimae is located about a 5-minutes walk from Nagoya Station. It is a simple Western-style accommodations with a great location, clean room, and comfy bed. Each room features carpeted floors, a private bathroom, LCD screen TV, a fridge and an electric kettle and free wifi connection.

Richmond Hotel Nagoya Shinkansen-guchi

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

Sakae District

The Sakae district is the most centrally located neighborhood in Nagoya. It is home to the most happening area. Moreover, the Osu shopping street is within walking distance, where Japanese tradition and international influences converge. Many attractions and historical sights like Oasis 21, Nagoya Castle and Nagoya TV Tower are located nearby. Moreover, this area also concentrates with many great restaurants and eateries, making it the best area to stay in Nagoya for first-time visitors.

Where To Stay in Nagoya - Hotel Mystays Nagoya Sakae
Hotel MYSTAYS Nagoya Sakae

Hotel MYSTAYS Nagoya Sakae is one of the value choices when looking for the best stay in Nagoya in reasonable price. It is situated close to the central city with walking distance to many attractions and restaurants. The Sake subway station is about 7-minutes walk. Besides, the rooms are clean and provide all the necessary amenities.

Hotel Trusty Nagoya Sakae
KOKO Hotel Nagoya Sakae

KOKO Hotel Nagoya Sakae (or formerly Hotel Trusty Nagoya Sakae) is situated with only 1-minute from the Sakae station. It is centrally located in the lively Sakae district and easy walk to the shopping area. Besides, it also offers comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV and free wifi available.

Nagoya Best Hotel - APA Hotel Nagoya Sakae
APA Hotel Nagoya Sakae

Next on the best place to stay in Nagoya. APA Hotel Nagoya Sakae is located within a 5-minute walk from Sakae Subway Station. It is home in the best location for solo and couple travelers looking to hit everything at once in the Nagoya city. Many eateries and convenience stores nearby. Moreover, it is located only 180 meters away from a bus stop bound for Chubu Centrair International Airport. One of the great options for travelers planning to travel between the airport and the city by the airport bus.

Nishiki District

Another worth recommended is Nishiki district. It is an upmarket area in Nagoya for locals and a great hub for entertainment and food. Many pubs, restaurants, dining areas to choose from. One of the happening area in Nagoya if you are looking for where to stay in Nagoya.

Red Planet Nagoya Nishiki
Red Planet Nagoya Nishiki

Red Planet Nagoya Nishiki is situated with a 4-minute walk from Marunouchi Subway Station. Modern and new rooms feature with comfortable bed. It also equipped with a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, USB port and free wifi throughout the building.

Nishitetsu Inn Nagoya Nishiki
Nishitetsu Inn Nagoya Nishiki

Nishitetsu Inn Nagoya Nishiki is featured with the perfect location. It is located with 4 minutes walk from Fushimi station and bus stop for Centrair Bus Limousine to the airport. The rooms are in decent size and equipped with everything you need for your stay. Walking distance to many eateries and restaurants. One of the popular choices among locals.

Best Budget Stay in Nagoya

The accommodations in Nagoya is less expensive than other big cities in Japan. Travelers can find a lot of economy mid-range hotels at cheaper price compare with Tokyo or Osaka. You can enjoy the hotel facilities and professional service without breaking your bank. Still, for backpackers or solo travelers, there are a few great hostels available if you are looking for the best budget stay in Nagoya.

First Cabin TKP Nagoya Station
First Cabin TKP Nagoya Station

First Cabin TKP Nagoya Station offers a capsule hotel with free WiFi for guests. It is situated a 7-minute walk from JR Nagoya Station. It is a capsule hotel with standard capsules and cabin rooms with a shared bathroom for travelers. A clean facility and comfortable rooms with private privacy budget stay hostel.

Best Cheap Stay - Hostel WASABI Nagoya Ekimae
HOSTEL WASABI Nagoya Ekimae

Lastly, HOSTEL WASABI Nagoya Ekimae is one of the budget stay with a great location in Nagoya. It is located nearby Nagoya station, making a popular choice for travelers looking for a cheap stay with a good location. The hostel provide bunk bed and capsule rooms with shared bathroom for male, female and mixed dormitory rooms.

*** Disclaimer: Hotel Photos provided from Booking.com***

Overview: Best Place To Stay in Nagoya

Best Hotel in Nagoya

All in all, Nagoya is one of the exciting cities in Japan, with lots of attractions and delicious foods to offer. It is also one of the cheapest cities to visit in Japan to spend on your holiday. When visiting the Chubu region, Nagoya should be one of the places to visit on your bucket list.

Here is the general hotel guide when looking for your best stay in Nagoya:

What is the Best Areas To Stay in Nagoya?

The Top 4 best areas to stay in Nagoya are Nagoya Station, Nakamura ward, Sakae District, and Nishiki District.

Where Should I Stay in Nagoya For First Time Visitor?

Sakae District is the best place to stay in Nagoya. It is the home of the most happening area in Nagoya with food and transport well connected.

Best Hotel To Stay in Nagoya For Family with Kids?

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel is good for the family with kids in Nagoya. It directly connected to JR Station, making it one of the great choices for travelers looking for a convenient stay.

Which Hotel is Best To Stay in Nagoya?

My top pick on where to stay in Nagoya is Richmond Hotel Nagoya Shinkansen-guchi, which located nearby the Nagoya Station. This hotel is very ideal for visitors who look for convenience for transportation and food. Most importantly, it offers professional service at an incredible price.

Which Hotel is Best To Stay in Nagoya For Solo Traveler?

For the solo traveler with budget concerns, I recommended taking a look at the First Cabin TKP Nagoya Station

Continue Read On

Next, once deciding on where to stay in Nagoya, you can start exploring Nagoya as per your itinerary planning. Lastly, hopefully, my best pick on where to stay in Nagoya is helpful. Let me know if I missed your favorite place to stay in Nagoya. Enjoy your trip to Nagoya!

Nagoya Itinerary: A Guide For Things To Do in Nagoya

Last but not least, 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.

8-Days Chubu Itinerary: Complete Central Japan Travel Guide

More detail on interesting places to visit in the Chubu region:

Nagoya Itinerary

Nagoya Itinerary: Budget Planning And Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Chubu Japan | 0

Last updated on August 9th, 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.

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

From Centrair Chubu Airport To Nagoya City
From Centrair 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 Travel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in HNagoya, check prices for Nagoya Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

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

Nabana Sato Nagoya - Light illumination

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.

Nabana Sato Nagoya - Spectacular Winter illumination
Nabana Sato Nagoya – Spectacular Winter illumination

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

Nagoya Komeda Coffee
Nagoya Komeda Coffee

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

Nagoya Castle
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.

Golden Dolphins in Nagoya Castle

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.

Honmaru Palace in Nagoya Castle
Honmaru Palace 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

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

Nagoya Must Eat - Hitsumabushi
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.

You may also considered eating Hitsumabushi from Maruya Honten, another popular restaurant to savor the Hitsumabushi in three different ways. Read more: Maruya Honten Nagoya: Popular Hitsumabushi Restaurant.

Osu Shopping Street

Osu Kannon

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

Nagoya Oasis 21

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

Popular Tebasaki in Nagoya
Popular Tebasaki in Nagoya

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

Shirakawago with Gassho-zukuri House
Shirakawago with Gassho-zukuri House

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

Planning Nagoya 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.

What To Do in Nagoya For 1 Day?

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.

What To Do in Nagoya For 2 Days?

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.

What’s Nagoya famous for?

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.

How far is Nagoya from Tokyo?

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.

Is Nagoya Worth Visiting?

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.

Is Nagoya Cheaper Than Tokyo?

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.

How Much To Budget in Nagoya?

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:

Complete read in Chubu travel blog:

Takayama and Shirakawago Travel Blog:

Tateyama Alpine Route and Kamikochi Travel Blog:

Nagoya Itinerary Travel Guide Blog
Where To Stay in Beppu

Where To Stay in Beppu [Best Hotels and Ryokans]

posted in: Accommodation, Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

If you’re thinking of venturing to Beppu soon, here are our best recommendations on where to stay in Beppu with the best hotel, traditional ryokan, and budget hostel.

Nested in the volcanic mountainous region in Oita prefecture, Beppu is a city surrounded by more than two thousand hot spring spots. Over the years, the citizens have fully made use of the hot spring resources for bathing, food steaming, and sightseeing spot. It has to turn Beppu into one of the famous hot spring resorts in Japan. Beppu is now one of the most visited cities in Kyushu with locals and foreigners flocking to Beppu for its onsen.

There is always no problem with finding things to do in Beppu. But you may struggle with deciding where to stay in Beppu, especially for first-time visitors. Beppu may not be as complicated as Osaka or Tokyo. But finding your best stay in Beppu is still important. It depends on your preference to stay in a modern hotel, traditional ryokan, or closer to the station to ease travel arrangements.

Where To Stay in Beppu

Beppu Hotel Guide
Where To Stay in Beppu

We recommended staying nearby Beppu station as this is the point where most travelers arrive. It offers the largest selection of accommodations. Some of the best hotels in Beppu are close to the station. The best selections of the hotel, Japanese ryokan, and budget stay can be found nearby the Beppu station within walking distance.

Not sure where to look? Get your quick Beppu accommodations guide started with below the best places to stay in Beppu.

What are the best places to stay in Beppu?

We recommended staying nearby Beppu station if you are looking for a transport convenient hotel. Else, it is best to stay in Japanese ryokan in Beppu to experience the natural hot spring.

What is the good hotel near the Beppu Station>

Beppu Kamenoi Hotel, Hotel Aile, and Nishitetsu Resort Inn Beppu are popular picks when looking for the best hotel near Beppu station.

What is a good hotel to experience the traditional ryokan stay in Beppu?

Yamada Bessou, Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei, and Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi are popular among travelers when looking for a stay with a wonderful hot spring bath in Beppu.

What is a good budget hostel in Beppu?

Guest House Rojiura and Beppu Hostel U&T are good options for solo travelers and budget travelers.

Beppu Hotel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Beppu check prices for Beppu Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

Hotel Nearby Beppu Station

Stay nearby Beppu station if you only look for convenience for a night’s stay in Beppu. This is the main entry point to Beppu with trains from Oita, Fukuoka, or other cities. Moreover, frequent buses departed from the station to the attractions. You’ll find the largest selection of hotels, great restaurants, and convenience stores mostly catering to tourists and business travelers. A great place to stay within walking distance of public transport.

Beppu Kamenoi Hotel
Beppu Kamenoi Hotel

Beppu Kamenoi Hotel is a three-star hotel located nearby Beppu station within a 5-minutes walk. It is one of the bestsellers in Beppu and offers a quality stay in Beppu. Spacious room and value for money. Moreover, it offers on-site public hot-spring baths and sauna rooms for guests to relax in.

Where To Stay in Beppu - Hotel Aile

Hotel Aile is a 7-minute walk from JR Beppu Station and a 2-minute walk from Kitahama Bus Centre. This hotel gives you a central spot for exploring the rest of Beppu city. It features a large room, free parking, and a hot spring bath on the rooftop with views of Beppu Bay. Free parking is available for hotel guests.

Click here to check for the room availability

Nishitetsu Resort Inn Beppu
Nishitetsu Resort Inn Beppu

Nishitetsu Resort Inn Beppu is located about a 7-minutes walk from JR Beppu station. Many eateries and restaurants are located nearby. The value stays boasted a spacious public bathing area including natural hot spring baths and open-air baths. A perfect base for exploring Beppu city.

Beppu Japanese Ryokan

If you’re looking for a relaxing and laidback vacation, stay in the traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). Beppu city is one of the tourist districts in Oita prefecture. It offers close access to some natural sights but also gives you a break from the crowded tourist spots. You’ll find many unique onsen baths for both unisex and gender-specific baths in a ryokan. This is ideal for holiday-goers who like to enjoy the hot spring bath.

As with other areas of Beppu city, ryokans are more popular in this neighborhood. In Beppy, there are many ryokans that provides a unique hot spring bath that should be on your list.

Where To Stay in Beppu - Yamada Bessou
Yamada Bessou

Yamada Bessou is a retro yet stylish traditional ryokan in Beppu. It is situated within a 10-minute walk from Beppu Station. The Yamada Bessou is surrounded by greenery and boasted of a healing hot water spring bath. You can reserve an outdoor hot spring bath for private use, or relax in the public indoor bath available 24 hours a day. It is a charming ryokan with traditional tatami rooms and served by delightful staff.

Click here to check for the room availability

Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei
Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei

Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei is one of the popular picks to stay in Beppu. It is a traditional ryokan located 300 m from Beppu Tower and 700 m from Takegawara Onsen. Your stay is boasted of indoor and outdoor public onsen facilities. The outdoor onsen on the rooftop provides a magnificent sea view and surroundings, which is a great plus.

Check for the best rate from Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei.

Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi
Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi

Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi is a sleek luxury property overlooking the Beppu bay. It offers a variety of smart accommodation in either the Western or traditional Japanese style for your best stay in Beppu. The environment gives you a traditional setting for your exploration of this historic Beppu city.

Besides, the indoor and outdoor public bath is unbeatable. You can see the perfect sunrise moment with an infinity ocean during the morning. Relax in a hot spring bath after a day out sightseeing and take in the sea views. A splendid ryokan stay.

Click here to check for the room availability

Nogami Honkan
Nogami Honkan

Nogamihonkan Ryokan is a traditional ryokan with modern facilities in Beppu. Located about a 10-minute walk from Beppu station, Nagomi Honkan can unwind in the free public hot spring bath or private family bath. When you’re ready to relax, enjoy a dip in the hotel’s hot spring. Complimentary drink and bike rental available. One of the popular picks for mid-range ryokan in Beppu.

Best Budget Stay in Beppu

Best Budget Stay in Beppu - Guest House Rojiura
Guest House Rojiura

Guest House Rojiura is a clean, lovely, and cozy budget guest house in Beppu. It is conveniently located very close to the train station within 2 minutes’ walk. Just a short walk from the Beppu station, this is a convenient spot if you want to explore the whole of Beppu city. This budget stay features with standard room and bunk bed for group and solo travelers. It offers a spacious shared lounge area that you freely can use. Free bikes and free private parking are also available for guests.

Check for the best rate from Guest House Rojiura.

Beppu Hostel U&T
Beppu Hostel U&T

Beppu Hostel U&T is another great option for budget stays in Beppu. It is situated about a 10-minute walk from Beppu station. The budget stays offers an economy triple room and family room for up to 6 people. Big-sized rooms and well-managed hostel. A great option for family and groups of friends.

Overview: The Best Hotels and Ryokans

Hopefully, my Beppu accommodation guide can give you some idea of where to stay in Beppu. This amazing city is easy to explore on foot or by public transport no matter where you stay. Traveling around the city, you’ll come across many attractions, shops, and restaurants of all varieties and styles. However, Keep in mind that Beppu is a popular tourist spot in Japan. You may need to start your search early and book your best stay. Lastly, enjoy your trip to Beppu.

If you are looking for how to plan your trip and itinerary, free feel to read my travel guide below:

Beppu Food Guide:

Related Kyushu travel post: