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Traveling from Tokyo Station to Nagoya by Shinkansen

Recommended Tourist Spots for a 1-Night, 2-Day Solo Trip

If you’re planning a solo trip from Tokyo to Nagoya for one night and two days, there are several must-visit tourist
spots. Be sure to visit Nagoya Castle, and don’t miss the chance to try the local specialties, Yabaton and Hitsumabushi.

Exploring Nagoya: A Solo Adventure from Tokyo

So, you’re thinking about a little escape to Nagoya? First off, great choice! As someone who’s made this trip more times than I can count, I completely understand the appeal. It’s like a little treasure chest of culture, history, and, of course, mouthwatering food. In this blog post, I’m diving into my solo adventure from Tokyo to Nagoya for a quick one-night, two-day trip. Buckle up, because there’s a lot to unpack!

Getting from Tokyo to Nagoya: Shinkansen Time!

Let’s start with the journey! If you’re in Tokyo and planning to hop on the Shinkansen (or the bullet train, as most people know it), you’re in for a treat. The ride is super smooth, and honestly, it feels like you’re in a sci-fi movie zooming along at 300 km/h. You can catch the Nozomi or Hikari service from Tokyo Station, and it’s only about 1 hour and 40 minutes to Nagoya. Once you board, just sit back, relax, and soak in the views of the countryside zipping by. Pro tip: if you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of Mount Fuji peeking out in the distance. It’s seriously one of those moments that makes you stop and think, “Wow, I’m really in Japan!” Before you know it, you’ll arrive at Nagoya Station, a bustling hub that’s almost like a mini-city in itself.

Day 1: Exploring Nagoya Castle and More

Once I stepped off the train, I felt that little tingle of excitement that comes with exploring a new place. First up on my itinerary was Nagoya Castle, a stunning piece of architecture that’s steeped in history. Now, I’m not the biggest history buff, but the sheer beauty of the castle captured my attention immediately. As I approached the castle grounds, I was greeted by the iconic golden shachihoko (a mythical creature) adorning the roof. And let me tell you, those golden fish really do shine in the sunlight! There’s something magical about walking through the traditional gardens that surround the castle. It feels like stepping back in time, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Inside the castle, there’s a museum that showcases artifacts and displays about the castle’s history and the samurai culture. I found myself wandering through the exhibits, totally captivated. The view from the top of the castle is spectacular! You get an amazing panorama of Nagoya city, and it’s like, “Wow, I’m really here!”

Local Food Adventure: Yabaton

Okay, so after soaking in all that history, it was time to refuel. A fellow traveler had told me about a local dish called Yabaton, and I was determined to try it. This Nagoya specialty is basically miso katsu, which is deep-fried pork cutlet slathered in a rich red miso sauce. Can you say delicious? I found a cozy little spot that was famous for its Yabaton, and I was not disappointed. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The crunchy exterior gave way to tender pork, and the sweet, savory miso sauce was the cherry on top. I could feel my taste buds doing a happy dance. It was one of those meals that fills your heart with joy, you know?

Day 2: Dive into Hitsumabushi and Hidden Gems

The next day, I woke up feeling refreshed and ready for more adventures. After a quick breakfast at my hotel, I set out to find another culinary delight known as Hitsumabushi. For those who don’t know, it’s a grilled eel dish served over rice, and let me tell you, it’s a big deal in Nagoya. I stumbled upon a small, tucked-away restaurant that had a line out the door—always a good sign, right? When I finally sat down, I ordered the Hitsumabushi, and again, my taste buds were in heaven! The eel was grilled to perfection, with a smoky flavor that was just divine. The dish is served in three different ways, so you get to try it in various styles, from straightforward to fancy toppings. Such a fun experience!

Exploring Osu Kannon Temple

After my delicious Hitsumabushi, I felt the urge to explore a bit more, so I wandered over to Osu Kannon Temple. This beautiful temple is located in the Osu district, which is filled with quirky shops and thrift stores. It was delightful to see locals mingling and praying at the temple, and the atmosphere was so peaceful. The streets around the temple are lined with small shops selling everything from vintage clothes to unique handmade crafts. I spent hours just browsing, and I even found some cute souvenirs to take home. One shop had the most adorable hand-painted ceramics, and I couldn’t resist snagging a small plate to remind me of my adventure in Nagoya.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

As my solo trip was coming to an end, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences I had in Nagoya. The combination of rich history, stunning architecture, and oh-so-delicious food made for an unforgettable getaway. It’s amazing how a short journey can feel so fulfilling, filled with new flavors and experiences. If you’re looking for a quick escape from Tokyo, I highly recommend making the trip to Nagoya. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just someone who wants to soak in a different part of Japan, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your Japan Rail Pass, and get ready for an adventure! You never know what hidden gems you might discover. And as I boarded the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, I felt that familiar twinge of sadness that comes from leaving a place you’ve fallen in love with—even just a little. But I knew that I would carry those memories with me, ready to share them the next time someone asks about my travels in Japan. Until next time, Nagoya! I can’t wait to be back.