For travellers seeking an alternative to Tokyo's bustling crowds, Nagoya offers a rich cultural experience steeped in samurai history. Located between Tokyo and Kyoto, this city is often overlooked but boasts historic sites like Nagoya Castle, home to the famous golden shachihoko dolphin-like creatures.
Visitors can explore the Tokugawa Art Museum, which houses artifacts from the powerful Tokugawa clan, including samurai armour and swords. The city also features the Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, and the Osu Kannon Temple, a vibrant area for shopping and street food.
Nagoya is also known for its unique cuisine, including hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice) and miso katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce). With fewer tourists, it provides a more relaxed atmosphere to experience traditional Japanese culture.
