The Honmaru Palace is breathtakingly beautiful—just seeing it makes a trip to Nagoya worthwhile.

Nagoya Castle is a historic fortress located in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, also known as the "Golden Castle." Along with Osaka Castle and Kumamoto Castle, it is counted among Japan's "Three Great Famous Castles." The Honmaru Palace within Nagoya Castle is one of the most awe-inspiring architectural wonders I've seen in recent years. 🌟 Highlights ✔️ One of Japan's Three Great Famous Castles, personally overseen by Tokugawa Ieyasu ✔️ The golden shachihoko (mythical fish-like creatures) are iconic symbols—a must-visit for fans of the Warring States period ✔️ The wooden reconstruction project of the main keep began in 2022, promising even greater grandeur in the future ❶ Japan's Most Intact Samurai Complex The Honmaru Palace exemplifies the residences and administrative centers of feudal lords during the Edo period. It perfectly preserves the "shoin-zukuri" architectural style, featuring lavish fusuma paintings, gold-leaf decorations, and tatami rooms, showcasing the pinnacle of samurai lifestyle and power symbolism. ❷ National Treasure-Level Historical & Artistic Value The palace houses numerous masterpieces by Kano-school artists, including fusuma-e (screen paintings) like "Pine and Hawk," along with exquisite carvings and metalwork. Many are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, hailed as the "culmination of early modern Japanese architecture." ❸ Immersive Historical Experience Through reconstructed armories, garden layouts, and interactive exhibits, visitors can vividly experience the historical transitions of the Edo era. Some materials and techniques, like the "Karamon" gate style, trace back to China. Exhibits detail ancient Sino-Japanese exchanges, highlighting Japan's absorption and innovation of Chinese culture. Travel Guide: 📍 Location 1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0031 🚇 5-min walk from Nagoyajo Station or 7-min from Shiyakusho Station 🚌 Direct bus from Nagoya Station (~15 mins) 💡 Tips • Arrive early to avoid crowds—head straight to the main keep at 9 AM (afternoons get packed with tour groups) • Must-see highlights: ▸ Honmaru Palace: Gold-leaf fusuma paintings + recreated Tokugawa family living quarters ▸ Nishinomaru Garden: Stunning during cherry blossom (late March) and autumn foliage (November) seasons ⏰ Hours 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (last entry 4:00 PM) ❌ Closed Mondays (or next weekday if a holiday) 🎫 Admission: ¥500 (adults), free for junior high students and younger