Shopping
While places like Tokyo or Osaka are often better known for shopping, Nagoya has lots of unique benefits that cannot be found in other places around Japan. Because of the smaller amount of people, shopping in Nagoya allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. It also provides opportunities to purchase items that would be most likely out of stock in other places. There are a variety of excellent shopping locations scattered throughout Nagoya, each with their own special touches.
Oasis21
This shopping mall is massive, and chances are if you want to buy something, you will be able to purchase it here. The majority of the shops are underground, which can make your shopping experience unlike any others. The thing that really stands out about Oasis 21, though, is the huge glass ceiling set above the shops, which is miraculous to view in the daytime, and even better at nights, when you are able to see the light shows. If you thought that was a lot, there is a thin layer of water above the ceiling, which creates a beautiful pattern of ripples of light. You can walk upon the ceiling which provides an incredible view of Nagoya Castle. When you finish shopping, there is a wide selection of restaurants which serve some of the best tasting food in Nagoya. How to get there, you ask? Don’t worry, they have that covered too. Oasis 21 has its own bus terminal, with regular transport, so no matter where you are, you can access this stand out place.
Osu Kannon Antiques Market
Most days of the month, this is simply a beautiful temple in beautiful area. But on the 18th and 28th of each month, Osu Kannon is turned into a popular antiques market. Here you can find a range of interesting and antique knick knacks, as well as useful and decorative pieces, like pottery and furniture.Sometimes, there is no other way to get your hands on these historic objects. Even if you aren’t buying, it is always worthwhile to take a step into the past and see some of the intriguing things on sale. There are also lots of chances to purchase delicious homemade delicacies. This is a great place to visit if you want a different style of shopping.
Osu Street
Osu Street, otherwise known as Osu Shopping District, is one of Nagoya’s best known areas to shop. Why? Because people have traded there for over four hundred years! Its evolved quite a lot in that time, and is now known for its unique ambience and things to do. There is something for everyone here, whether it be dining, culture, shopping or just a good time. While it is centered around shopping, there are plenty of delicious restaurants, and the occasional temple as well. There is a variety of shops, meaning there is a range of prices, depending on whether you want to go all out, or are saving your money. This area is very community focused, and is often the home to extremely enjoyable parades, festivals and touring exhibits. Cosplays are also not rare here, and in recent years the annual World Cosplay Summit was held here. You could come to this incredible place every day, and everyday there would be something interesting and amazing to surprise you. You never know exactly what you will find here, so going there yourself would be a great way to find out!
Invigorating Experiences
Higashiyama Park
Higashiyama is a beautiful expanse of land, with countless things to see and do. This park is a three minute walk from the Higashiyama-Koen Station and is centered around 4 major attractions. It includes a zoo, botanical garden, sky tower and amusement park.
This is a prestigious zoo, being home to over 7 500 different species. The zoo cares for and raises several species of rare animals, including the Persian Leopard. Another part of this zoo, is the world class Medaka Hall, which features hundreds of Medaka, which are Japanese kill fish.
These botanical gardens are stunning, with over 7000 species of plant. The large large garden is actually made up of multiple smaller gardens, including Camelia, Cherry Blossoms and Uke (Japanese Apricot Trees) gardens. The entire park was developed in an environmentally friendly way, using the best natural resources possible, and includes a traditional Japanese glass house.
What better way to view the stunning park than by the Higashiyama Sky Tower. This is an incredible piece of architecture, standing at a height of 134 metres. The tower gives a flawless view of the park, winning a selection in Japan’s best views. At the top of the restaurant, you can dine at the fabulous Sky Restaurant, which serves superb dishes.
Throughout the park, there is a scattering of rides and activities. These include a fun house and three fast roller coasters, a monorail and a massive ferris wheel. There are also lots of other smaller rides for a range of ages to enjoy.
The Nagoya Port is one of the largest in Japan, just like the excellent aquarium placed there. The Osu Aquarium is often considered the best in Japan, and there is good reason for it. It has two main buildings, with its exhibits spread between them . It is home to a large amount of marine mammals, including dolphins, beluga whales, and orcas, including a baby orca raised at the park. There are also common dolphin shows, with tricks and stunts that have been taught by the experienced staff. As well as these animals, there is a ferris wheel and the occasional fireworks show.
