description Nagoya Castle Overview
Nagoya Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in Aichi Prefecture, originally constructed in the early 17th century under the orders of the Tokugawa shogunate. The castle is a prominent landmark distinguished by the golden shachihoko, mythical tiger-headed carp statues, that adorn its roof. The main five-story donjon was reconstructed using concrete in 1959 after the original structure was destroyed by bombing during World War II. The site currently functions as a museum and park open to the public.
help Nagoya Castle FAQ
When was Nagoya Castle built?
Construction began under Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1610, and the main castle structures were largely completed by 1612. It was built as a residence and power base for Yoshinao, Ieyasu's son and the first lord of the Owari domain.
What are the golden figures on Nagoya Castle?
The roof is decorated with golden shachihoko, mythical tiger-headed carp figures. They are one of the castle's defining visual symbols and are associated with protection from fire.
What happened to Nagoya Castle during World War II?
Much of the historic castle was destroyed by wartime fire, including the original main tower. The five-story main tower was reconstructed in 1959, while other historic elements have been restored separately.
What can visitors see besides the main tower?
The grounds include the restored Honmaru Palace and the Ninomaru Garden. Nagoya City's restoration program reopened the Honmaru Palace to visitors in 2018, providing interiors and paintings connected to the Owari Tokugawa domain.
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