History of the Honmaru Palace

You can find the latest updates on Nagoya travel info.

For the most up-to-date details, check Nagoya travel info before you go.

Tragedy struck during World War II when the palace was destroyed. Firebombs leveled the original structure in 1945. However, many original paintings were saved in a secure warehouse. These artifacts helped experts plan a perfect reconstruction decades later.

The city of Nagoya began the massive rebuilding project in 2009. Craftsmen used traditional tools and ancient techniques to recreate every room. They finished the final stage of the palace in 2018. Today, it looks exactly as it did four centuries ago.

Walking through the halls feels like stepping back into the Edo period. You can see how the Shogun lived and entertained guests. The palace represents the cultural heart of Nagoya. It is a must-see stop on any Japan National Tourism Organization recommended itinerary.

Golden Art and Architecture Highlights

The interior of the Honmaru Palace is famous for its gold. Artists used real gold leaf to cover large sections of the walls. The bright gold reflects light even on cloudy winter days. This creates a warm glow throughout the entire building.

The sliding doors feature beautiful paintings of tigers, leopards, and birds. These artworks are known as fusuma-e. They were painted by the famous Kano school of artists. The detail in the animals' fur and feathers is truly amazing.

Look up to see the intricate coffered ceilings in the main halls. Each room has a different design based on its importance. The most formal rooms have the most complex wood carvings. These details show the high status of the palace visitors.

The palace is one of the best photo spots at Nagoya Castle during the winter. You can capture the contrast between the gold walls and the cold outdoors. Remember that flash photography is not allowed inside the rooms. Use natural light to get the best shots of the artwork.

Winter Visit Logistics for 2026

Planning your visit for 2026 requires some basic knowledge of the site. The castle grounds are open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Entry to the Honmaru Palace stops at 4:00 PM. Give yourself at least one hour to see the palace properly.

The entry fee for adults is 500 yen for the entire castle area. This price includes access to the palace and the gardens. Children under the age of junior high school can enter for free. You can buy Nagoya Castle event tickets at the main gate.

To reach the castle, take the Meijo subway line to Nagoya-jo Station. The walk from the station to the East Gate takes five minutes. You can also use the Meguru tourist bus from Nagoya Station. This bus stops directly in front of the castle entrance.

Winter is a great time to visit because the crowds are smaller. Early morning visits offer the quietest experience in the palace. The air is crisp and the views of the main keep are clear. Always check the weather forecast before you head out for the day.

Essential Tips for Cold Weather

The palace floors are very cold because you must remove your shoes. There is no central heating inside the wooden structure. You should wear thick wool socks to stay warm during your walk. Many visitors find the wooden floors quite chilly in January and February.

You will receive a plastic bag to carry your shoes with you. Make sure your hands are free to hold your camera and your bag. Wear a warm coat that is easy to move in. You will be walking through many interconnected rooms and narrow hallways.

Large backpacks are not allowed inside the Honmaru Palace. You can use the coin lockers near the entrance to store your bags. This makes it easier to navigate the palace without hitting the delicate walls. Most lockers cost between 100 and 300 yen to use.

The JR Central trains provide easy access to Nagoya from other major cities. If you travel from Tokyo, the Shinkansen is the fastest option. Dress in layers so you can stay warm on the train and the castle grounds. Proper planning makes your winter tour much more comfortable.

Nagoya Castle Winter Festival Events

The castle grounds host the Nagoya Castle Winter Festival Events every year. These festivities usually run from late December through early February. You can enjoy special food stalls serving hot miso katsu and oden. These local snacks are perfect for warming up after your palace tour.

During the festival, the castle often features a winter illumination and light show at night. The stone walls and trees glow with thousands of colorful LEDs. This creates a romantic atmosphere for evening walks. Check the official schedule for specific lighting times in 2026.

Traditional performances sometimes take place on the outdoor stage. You might see samurai demonstrations or local dance groups. These events celebrate the rich culture of the Aichi prefecture. They add extra excitement to your visit beyond the historical buildings.

The winter festival is a great time for families to visit. There are often interactive displays and craft workshops for children. You can learn how to make traditional Japanese decorations. These activities make the Nagoya Castle experience fun for people of all ages.