So, at the recommendation of my friend George, I decided to visit Osu Kannon. Brilliant looking temple, pretty similar to the rest. However, if you have the day to spare, I would do a temple walk between Osu Kannon, and the other surrounding temples.
George did warn me though – it’s not so much the temple itself, or the giant lantern – it’s more the shopping arcades.
I spent a very long time wandering back and forth through the different arcades – they had a whole bunch of different offerings, ranging from street style food (buta nigiri!?) to clothes (think Takeshita Dori in Harajuku). I was kinda pressed for time, but this would be a good way to spend half a day (and perhaps half your money, so choose wisely!) After walking around in (what could potentially have been) circles, I found Kamimaezu Station.
Kamimaezu -> Shiyakusho (¥200, included in pass)
After hopping off the train and following the obvious signage to Nagoya Castle, I found myself face to face with the entrance. I paid ¥500 and received my ticket, then noticed a sign on the counter saying “If you are in possession of a Subway Pass, there is a discount available to you”.
“I didn’t notice this! Can I still get the discount?”
“Of course, show me your ticket, please.”
So, she gave me ¥100 back, bringing the cost of admission to ¥400. Score!
I took my time walking around Nagoya Castle Park, taking photos, until I came to the main castle itself. Climbed the stairs and went inside. You’ll find that Nagoya Castle, like Osaka Castle, is probably more appropriately described as a huge museum in the shape of a castle. Nonetheless, it’s pretty interesting, if you’re into this sort of thing. Also, they try to keep it interactive by having displays of technologies used in the ancient times, for instance those used to assist in building the castle. On Level 1 of the castle, they have a 3D show with English subtitles that most English-speaking tourists would probably find useful.
Before heading out of the main castle building, I went up to the 7th floor, which is the observation deck. I like Nagoya, but the city skyline is pretty nondescript compared to the others I’ve visited so far. It provided a nice view of the castle surrounds though.
I also visited the North West Tower and had a walk around in there. To get inside that tower, you need to remove your shoes, and put on the slippers they provide you with (as well as take your shoes in the plastic bag they give you). Prepare to be amazed by the architecture. It’s all fully restored, but if you look at the tree trunks running along the ceiling (holding the floors up), it’s all pretty remarkable. There is also copper pipe draining in the window sills, so they wouldn’t fill with water during heavy rains – and this wasn’t a recent addition to the building, either!
Finally I had explored enough, and was ready to leave. Just as I approached the exit, my left foot (blistered one) was throbbing so I took a seat and drank a can of Dr Pepper (¥120) whilst deciding my next move.
I noticed these mascots running around. I really wanted to get a photo with them, but there were too many screaming Japanese fans (yeah, I know – fans!) for me to get my chance. Plus, I had to rush over to Shiokamaguchi to have a meal at somewhere George recommended me to go…
It’s okay, I’m sure I’ll come back to Nagoya Castle again someday. Now on the train to Shiokamaguchi! Not a lot of time, since I gotta be back at Nagoya Station at around 4:30pm…
Shiyakusho -> Shiokamaguchi (¥260, included in pass)