Located between Tokyo and Osaka on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, Nagoya is Japan’s fourth-largest city and a major hub for industry, history, and local culture. While often overlooked by tourists, Nagoya offers a mix of traditional attractions and modern experiences. Nagoya Castle, originally built in the 17th century and known for its golden shachihoko (mythical tiger-headed carp) roof ornaments, remains one of the city’s top sights. The Atsuta Shrine, dating back over 1,900 years, is one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines, said to house the sacred Kusanagi sword. For fans of technology and innovation, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and the nearby Toyota Kaikan Museum in Toyota City offer a deep dive into Japan’s automotive legacy. Food-wise, Nagoya has its own distinctive cuisine - don’t miss hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice), miso katsu, or kishimen noodles. With its central location and efficient transport links, Nagoya makes a convenient base for exploring central Japan or an interesting stopover between the country’s more famous cities.