Nagoya developed as the castle town of the Owari, one of the three branches of the ruling Tokugawa family during the Edo Period. Much of the city, including most of its historic buildings, were destroyed in the air raids of 1945. The Toyota Motor Corporation maintains its headquarters just outside of Nagoya.
Main Attraction
Nagoya Castle (名古屋城, Nagoyajō) was built in the beginning of the Edo Period as the seat of one of the three branches of the ruling Tokugawa family, the Owari branch. As such, it was one of the largest castles in the country, and the castle town around it ultimately grew to become Japan's fourth largest city.
Places To Visit
Ogimachi, Shirakawa-go's largest village and main attraction, makes a good day trip from Takayama, or a stop on the bus journey between Takayama and Kanazawa. The best way to experience the town, however, is to stay overnight at one of the farmhouses, many of which now serve as minshuku.
Of interest to tourists is the Sky Promenade, located on the top three floors of the 46 story building. This is an open-air observation deck with panoramic views over Nagoya. Key landmarks that can be seen from the Sky Promenade include the JR Central Towers, Nagoya Castle and Nagoya Port. Several exquisite restaurants are located on the 41st and 42nd stories, serving different types of Japanese and international cuisine and offering tables with impressive aerial views of the city.
Onsen (hot springs) are what make Gero famous, and there are three public bath houses available in town. Also at the south end of the Gero Bridge is a large rotenburo (open-air bath) you can bath in for free; however, it has no facilities and is exposed to the bridge above.
