Nagoya Castle (with pictures!)

I had a date day with myself last week and went to the Nagoya Castle. Although I was pretty sick with a sore throat, cough and congestion, I still ventured out and saw the castle. The Nagoya Castle is pretty centrally located in the city and was originally built in the early 1600s. During WWII, due to air raids, the majority of the castle was demolished, however three corner towers on the grounds, three gates and many paintings survived the fire and have since been handed down as important cultural assets, which are now on display in the newly constructed castle. The castle was reconstructed in the late 1950s. In addition to the actual castle, there are several gates and tower buildings that surround the grounds. There are gardens, tea houses and other exhibition buildings on the grounds as well. It is a very peaceful area, and for being in the center of a major Japanese city, it does not feel like it! Luckily, I was able to go on a week day, so I think that also helped the minimal tourist traffic. I learned a lot about Japanese history and culture, specifically dealing with royal families that have lived in Japan. It’s cool to know there are historical sites right here in my home city to learn from and explore!