My day in Nagoya

On 29 December, I decided to set off on an adventure and explore Nagoya. The sky was clear, the light was soft, and the temperature was surprisingly pleasant for the season. I didn't have any specific plans for the day; I just wanted to go with the flow. So I followed my instincts: without thinking too much about it, I took the train and headed for Nagoya Castle.

When I arrived at the main entrance, I quickly realised that the castle was closed for the end-of-year period. It is indeed inaccessible from 29 December to 1 January inclusive.

Far from letting this get me down, I decided to walk around the site and take as many photos as possible, even though the castle is not very visible from the outside.

I will soon be dedicating an entire article to Nagoya Castle, so don't miss it!

I walked around the castle through the gardens and took photos as soon as the castle appeared between the trees. Even hidden, it imposed its majestic and silent presence.

After a few minutes' walk, I arrived in front of the brand new Nagoya Arena. I was struck by the contrast between the history and traditions of the castle on one side and the modern, futuristic architecture on the other. It was a surprising encounter between two eras, very close to each other — as if Nagoya were reminding me, without saying so, that it can blend the past and the present very well so that everything is in harmony.

Around 1 p.m., I wanted to have lunch. I remembered that there was a Snoopy café about a thirty-minute walk away, near Mirai Tower (a small Eiffel Tower in Nagoya). The last time I saw it, it intrigued me and made me really want to go there.

On the way, passing by the castle again, I crossed a street lined with small restaurants. Everything looked delicious, and I wanted to stop several times. But I already had my destination in mind, so I continued on my way, excited to finally discover this long-awaited café.

Around 1 p.m., I wanted to have lunch. I remembered that there was a Snoopy café about a thirty-minute walk away, near Mirai Tower (a small Eiffel Tower in Nagoya). The last time I saw it, it intrigued me and made me really want to go there.

On the way, passing by the castle again, I crossed a street lined with small restaurants. Everything looked delicious, and I wanted to stop several times. But I already had my destination in mind, so I continued on my way, excited to finally discover this long-awaited café.

On the way, I couldn't help but notice a building that clearly stood out from the others. You can see it in the photos above. It is Nagoya City Hall, whose architecture immediately attracted me.

Built in the 1930s, it combines a classic Western style with more traditional Japanese elements, such as its castle-inspired roof. It's a striking, almost solemn combination that gives it a unique charm. It's easy to see why this building is now considered a true architectural symbol of the city.

With my Snoopy coffee in front of me, once I'm seated at the table, I lose myself in the menu.

Sweet or savoury? Everything looks tempting, but I finally settle on a crispy chicken burger with chips and onion rings, washed down with a ginger ale.

Orders are placed on a tablet, and water is self-service. It's as beautiful as it is delicious, and the café's decor is very cute without being over the top.

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Before leaving, I take one last look around the Snoopy shop. Everything is very cute, even tempting... but I leave empty-handed, with a smile on my face and a full stomach.