JAPAN SPORTS JOURNEY

Asakusa is one of the most popular destinations among tourists for its strong connection to Edo-period culture and tradition. Its most iconic landmark is the Kaminari-mon Gate, famous for its massive red lantern. Passing through the gate brings you to Nakamise Shopping Street, a bustling lane filled with shops offering traditional souvenirs and Japanese sweets. At the end of the street stands Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, which attracts worshippers and tourists from both Japan and abroad. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade by the Sumida River or enjoy a cruise on a yakatabune, a traditional Japanese houseboat. Within walking distance from Asakusa is the 634-meter-high TOKYO SKYTREE®. Don’t miss the chance to take in panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Sushi is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Japanese cuisine around the world. Its roots can be traced back to narezushi, a fermented dish from Southeast Asia. During the Edo period, sushi evolved into its modern form, using vinegared rice paired with fresh seafood from Tokyo Bay, giving rise to what’s now known as Edomae sushi. One of the key features of Edomae sushi is the special preparation techniques used by skilled chefs, such as simmering, curing, or marinating ingredients like kohada (gizzard shad) or anago (sea eel). At Tsukiji Outer Market, which used to be Tokyo’s main fish market, you’ll find a wide variety of sushi restaurants where you can enjoy high-quality seasonal ingredients in a casual setting.

One absolute must-see spot when visiting Nagoya is Nagoya Castle, which was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu as his base for unifying Japan. The golden dragon-like creatures, called Shachihoko, that adorn the roof of the castle keep and the magnificent Honmaru Palace convey the authority of the Tokugawa shogunate to this day, attracting many visitors. Within the castle grounds are exhibits and events that allow visitors to experience the feudal era’s warrior culture in a hands-on way. Meijo Park, which surrounds the castle, is also a wonderful place for a leisurely stroll or picnic. While taking in the history of the area, you can also enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons, such as the cherry blossoms in the spring and the colorful fall foliage. Right next door is Kinshachi Yokocho, home to restaurants offering signature Nagoya cuisine including Miso-katsu, Hitsumabushi, and Tenmusu, making this place one that will satisfy both your sightseeing interest and appetite.

Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
https://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/en/

Atsuta Jingu is a sacred place that enshrines the Kusanagi no Mitsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures from Japanese mythology, as its divine object, and draws worshippers from throughout Japan. This famous shrine boasts a history of more than 1,900 years and has long been revered under the name “Atsuta-san”. This historic shrine has many interesting things to see, and attracts approximately 7 million visitors a year. Its expansive grounds cover around 190,000 square meters and are filled with lush greenery, with the approach to the shrine adorned with the colors of nature throughout the four seasons. There are also ancient burial mounds and historical structures to be found throughout, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll. Soothe your heart with tranquility at this special place rich with the faith, nature, and culture of Japan.

Address: 1-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
https://www.atsutajingu.or.jp/en/intro/

One particularly bustling and popular area in Nagoya is Osu Shopping District. Home to approximately 1,200 shops in genres including the latest subculture, secondhand clothing, electronics, and restaurants, the mix of varied cultures is one of the area’s most appealing qualities. It is a popular destination for people of all ages, genders, and nationalities, making it one of the liveliest spots in Nagoya. The Symbol of Osu Shopping District is Osu Kannon Temple, which has a history that stretches back more than 400 years. One of Nagoya’s most famous temples, it is said to offer blessings for warding off evil and granting academic success, and is well-known for its bean-throwing ceremony and treasure ship procession held on Setsubun in February every year. It is also where traditional events are held, such as the twice-monthly antique market.

Address: 2 & 3 chome, Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
https://osu.nagoya/ja/

Inuyama Castle is a rare and renowned castle, boasting the oldest existing castle keep in Japan, and has been designated as a National Treasure. The castle was first established in 1537 during the Muromachi period. It is known for having been seized by Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu as they each sought to rule Japan during their respective eras. The castle keep stands tall on a small hill along the Kiso River, offering panoramic views of the river and distant mountains, allowing you an opportunity to take in the changing beauty of the seasons. The town that surrounds the castle still retains its Edo-period layout to this day, and the streets are lined with historical buildings from eras of Japan ranging from Showa to Edo. Activities such as strolling through the streets while wearing a kimono and taking a tour by rickshaw are gaining popularity here as well.

Address: 65-2 Inuyama Kitakoken, Inuyama-shi, Aichi
https://inuyamajo.jp/

The “Manekineko” is a cat-shaped charm that is said to bring good fortune. The city of Tokoname is known for being a major production area of these charms. Manekineko statues made in Tokoname are characterized by their large ears and eyes, golden claws that firmly grasp a large coin, and round shape with an equally sized head and body. Manekineko of all sizes can be seen welcoming visitors throughout the city. The historic townscape, with its cobblestone roads and old townhouses, has a powerful atmosphere that you can feel as you walk through it, as well as plenty of great photo spots. The Pottery Footpath, lined with the retro buildings and chimneys of a pottery village, is sure to be a highlight of your stroll. From the seaside scenery to the port town appeal, Tokoname is a great place for walking around as you look for your favorite Manekineko or café to stop at for a break.

Address: Tokoname-shi, Aichi

One of the local specialties of Nagoya is known as “Tenmusu”. Tenmusu is a bite-sized rice ball with shrimp tempura inside and wrapped in nori seaweed. They’re delicious even when chilled, and have been a staple of bento box lunches while also proving popular as souvenirs. Tenmusu was first devised in the late 1950s. The proprietress of a tempura restaurant in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, tried making rice balls with shrimp tempura on the inside, with the idea that her busy husband could eat them easily. They turned out to be even tastier than she had imagined, and they became the restaurant’s signature item. Its popularity then spread throughout Nagoya, eventually earning a place as a leading example of Nagoya cuisine. Each shop prepares them with their own unique seasonings and shapes, so finding your favorite adds to the fun.