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Autumn Sightseeing Spots in Nagoya｜7 Recommended Areas to Enjoy Autumn Foliage and Culture

With the arrival of autumn, the city of Nagoya is decorated with brilliant autumn leaves, making it the perfect season for sightseeing. As the summer heat subsides and the weather becomes more comfortable, autumn is the perfect time to experience the beauty of nature, history, and culture. In this article, under the theme of **”Autumn Sightseeing Spots in Nagoya, “** we will introduce seven carefully selected sightseeing spots, ranging from hidden gems to classic spots recommended by locals.

1 Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden, located in Chikusa-ku, Nagoya City, is decorated with magnificent autumn leaves in the botanical garden area in autumn. Especially in the Japanese garden area, maple trees and ginkgo trees turn into beautiful colors, and you can enjoy the changing of nature while strolling around the garden.

Highlights:

  • More than 500 kinds of plants are displayed in the botanical garden.

  • Interaction with popular animals such as red pandas and koalas

  • Unique combination of autumn leaves, animals, and a Japanese garden

The park is also a popular spot for dates and families, with events held only in autumn and the park opening at night.

2. Nagoya Castle｜A spectacular spot with history and autumn leaves

Nagoya Castle, a landmark of Nagoya, is also a popular spot in autumn, when the autumn leaves around the outer moat and Honmaru Palace are at their best. The contrast of the autumn leaves and the castle tower, known for its golden shachihoko (or or ornate ornament), is sure to be a photo-worthy sight.

Sightseeing point:

  • Combination of historical architecture and natural beauty in autumn

  • Gorgeous interior of Honmaru Goten

  • You can also enjoy Japanese sweets at a teahouse on the grounds

Don’t miss Nagoya Castle at night, as it is sometimes illuminated. A visit at dusk in autumn is a special experience.

3. Shirotori Garden｜Foliage viewing in one of Nagoya’s largest Japanese gardens

Shirotori Teien, located in Atsuta-ku, Nagoya, is one of the largest and most authentic Japanese gardens in the Tokai region. The garden is designed in a pond-enkaiyu style, and the trees in the garden turn brilliant colors in autumn.

Features:

  • A garden inspired by the natural landscape of the Tokai region

  • Matcha (powdered green tea) ceremony can be experienced in the tea ceremony room “Seiwatei” (tea ceremony room)

  • Autumn foliage peaks toward the end of November.

For those who wish to enjoy the autumn leaves in a tranquil setting, Shirotori Garden is recommended. You can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and calm your mind.

4. Tsurumai Park｜An oasis of autumn foliage in the heart of the city

Tsuruma Park, located a short walk from JR Tsuruma Station, is a historic park that opened in the Meiji era. It is famous for its rose garden and fountain tower, but the ginkgo trees that line the park turn a magnificent golden color in autumn.

Attraction points:

  • Excellent accessibility! About 10 minutes from Nagoya Station by train

  • Ginkgo-lined avenue of ginkgo trees and garden design that blends Japanese and Western styles

  • Ideal for photography enthusiasts and strolling courses

Many cafes and restaurants are located in the vicinity, making it a great place for an autumn picnic. Many locals can also be seen walking or jogging with their dogs.

5. Atsuta Jingu Shrine｜Sacred air and sunlight filtering through the trees in autumn

The nationally famous Atsuta Jingu Shrine is a shrine with a long history that enshrines the Kusanagi Sword, one of the three sacred weapons. In autumn, the large trees and paths on the shrine grounds are decorated with autumn leaves, creating a solemn atmosphere.

Recommended reason:

  • Popular as a power spot

  • Fantastic scenery created by the autumn sunlight and fallen leaves

  • The “Miya Kishimen” (rice noodles) on the temple grounds is also a must-try!

A sightseeing spot where you can reset your mind and body in a tranquil space. Visitors can enjoy not only the autumn leaves, but also autumn flowers and birdsong.

6. Tokugawaen｜Autumn Flavor in a Daimyo Garden

Tokugawa-en Garden, located in Higashi-ku, Nagoya, is a garden associated with the Owari Tokugawa family, the first of the three Tokugawa families. The garden is maintained as a circular Japanese garden, and maple trees and azaleas turn red in autumn.

Highlights:

  • Reflection of autumn leaves on “Ryusenko” in the garden.

  • Adjacent to the Tokugawa Art Museum, visitors can experience history and culture

  • Excellent Japanese sweets and green powdered tea at a teahouse

This is a hole-in-the-wall spot recommended for history buffs and those who want to enjoy a relaxing sightseeing tour.

Korankei (Extra: Near Nagoya)｜The best place for viewing the autumn leaves in Tokai

Located about an hour’s drive from central Nagoya, Korankei is a popular autumn foliage viewing spot in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, with more than 3,000 maple trees filling the valley, making it one of the most famous autumn foliage viewing spots in the Tokai region.

Autumn highlights:

  • Peak of autumn foliage from mid to late November

  • Maple Festival,” a light-up event, is also held.

  • A variety of food stalls and local delicacies

Because it is within a day trip distance from Nagoya, it is also a popular autumn driving course.

Tips for enjoying autumn sightseeing in Nagoya

To enjoy autumn in Nagoya to the fullest, keep the following points in mind.

What is the best time of year?

The best time to see the autumn leaves is usually from mid-November to early December. Since the time of coloring differs from place to place, it is recommended to check the official website or SNS in advance.

A note on what to wear.

Even though the daytime temperatures are pleasant, the mornings and evenings are often chilly, so be sure to bring a light coat or jacket.

Tips for avoiding crowds

Popular spots are crowded on weekends, holidays, and during peak foliage season. Aiming to visit on weekday mornings orjust after the park opens will allow you to see around in a relatively relaxed manner.

Summary｜Autumn in Nagoya is full of attractions!

Autumn in Nagoya is a time of autumn, when you can enjoy the autumn foliage, cultural experiences, and historical sightseeing spots. Despite being a big city, there are many places where you can feel in harmony with nature, and you will enjoy a trip of healing and discovery.

We hope you will plan your autumn sightseeing tour of Nagoya with reference to the spots introduced in this article. **We have tried to pack in plenty of attractions to satisfy those searching for the keyword “Nagoya Autumn Sightseeing Spots “**.

On your next holiday, why not take a trip to Nagoya to experience the beauty of the autumn leaves as well as the autumn season?

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