Offbeat NAGOYA｜Discover the unexpected side of Nagoya & Tokai region

Tag: Nagoya

  • Narumi Shrine – An Ancient Shrine as Revered as Atsuta Jingu｜Midori Ward, Nagoya

    Narumi Shrine – An Ancient Shrine as Revered as Atsuta Jingu｜Midori Ward, Nagoya

    Located in Midori Ward, Nagoya, Narumi Shrine was founded in the year 686 during the Asuka period, making it one of the oldest shrines in the region. Its founding dates back to almost the same era as Atsuta Jingu, one of Nagoya’s most important shrines, and it has been deeply worshiped by local residents for over a millennium.

    The name “Narumi” includes the character for “sea” (海), because about 1,400 years ago, this entire area was once coastal land. Today, the shrine stands on a gentle hill where the ocean is no longer visible, yet imagining the time when the sea reached here evokes a sense of Japan’s long and flowing history.

    Upon entering the shrine grounds, visitors are greeted by magnificent shrine buildings and a row of torii gates leading to an Inari shrine, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere. The scenery changes beautifully with each season, offering a new impression every time you visit.

    Narumi Shrine enshrines several deities who are believed to bring blessings such as family safety, academic success, business prosperity, matchmaking, and marital harmony. It is said that offering prayers here can help bring strength and good fortune to various aspects of life.

    Every year on the second Sunday of October, a Reisai (Annual Festival) is held to pray for a rich harvest. The shrine comes alive with locals and visitors enjoying portable shrines, traditional floats, and rows of food stalls, offering a true taste of Japan’s festive spirit.

    Blending history, nature, and community warmth, Narumi Shrine is a hidden gem well worth visiting during your trip to Nagoya.

  • A Taste of Hida Beef in a Modern, Comfortable Setting – Gyu-Zanmai Yakiniku | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Taste of Hida Beef in a Modern, Comfortable Setting – Gyu-Zanmai Yakiniku | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    If you’re visiting Nagoya, one dining spot you shouldn’t miss is **Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari**. Here, you can indulge in Japan’s world-renowned **Hida beef**, along with premium cuts of domestic black wagyu, served fresh and prepared with care.

    The Craft Behind the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Flavor – Exploring the World of Hida Beef, Gifu’s Renowned Wagyu

    The Gyu-Zanmai Commitment

    To bring out the best flavor of Hida beef, the restaurant follows strict standards:

    • Secret house-made sauce that pairs perfectly with top-grade rice
    • Fresh cuts prepared within 20 minutes of leaving refrigeration
    • Skilled knife work tailored to each cut of meat
    • Meat processed in the restaurant’s own certified factory for safety and quality

    Every dish reflects craftsmanship and pride, turning yakiniku into an art form.

    Clean, Comfortable Dining

    Travel meals should be enjoyable and relaxing.
    The interior of Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari is bright, modern, and spotless, with touches of traditional Japanese design. Spacious tables allow groups and families to dine comfortably without feeling crowded.

    Premium Beef at Honest Prices

    Despite serving high-quality Hida beef, prices remain reasonable. Guided by the idea of making **Japanese yakiniku culture accessible to everyone**, the restaurant offers a premium dining experience at a price that travelers can enjoy with confidence.

    Easy Access in Nagoya

    Located just **one minute on foot from Hirabari Station*

    • on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the restaurant is easy to reach. It’s a perfect stop to wrap up your day of sightseeing with a delicious Japanese barbecue experience.

      Reservations Recommended

      As one of the area’s most popular yakiniku spots, reservations are highly recommended. Avoid the disappointment of being turned away by booking in advance.

      For international visitors, online reservations are available—quick, simple, and accessible from your smartphone or laptop, even if you’re not confident in Japanese.

      Access

      Gyu-Zanmai Hirabari
      2F, 2-1407 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0011

      1-minute walk from Exit 2, Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line)

  • Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Located in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Harina Jinja” is a venerable shrine with over 1,100 years of history, quietly nestled in a peaceful residential neighborhood. Despite being just a 10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, it boasts a spacious approach path and grounds. The moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a sacred atmosphere far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

    For Autoproject, Inc. which operates this website, Harina Jinja holds special significance. As our local tutelary deity, we receive daily protection and blessings from this sacred place.

    What Is a Ujigami?

    Over a Thousand Years of History in an Elegant Setting

    According to ancient documents, Harina Jinja was founded around 900 AD, making it one of Nagoya’s most historically significant shrines. While the current shrine buildings have been beautifully maintained and are impeccably clean, you can truly feel the weight of over a millennium of history within its grounds.

    The shrine is said to have deep connections with Ise Grand Shrine and Atsuta Shrine, and has been gathering the faith of people since ancient times.

    Multiple Deities and Diverse Blessings

    One of Harina Jinja’s attractions is that it enshrines many different deities. In addition to the main hall, the grounds contain multiple auxiliary shrines, with the “Shinmei-sha” alone housing six additional shrines. It’s rare to find a shrine with so many gathered deities, allowing it to answer the diverse prayers of its visitors.

    The blessings offered are equally diverse, including good fortune, protection from misfortune, academic success, health, traffic safety, and business prosperity – making it a reliable source of support for various aspects of life. It’s believed that during the Edo period, as people gathered at this important point along the “Hirabari Highway,” various deities were successively enshrined here as the center of regional faith.

    Surrounded by Vibrant Vermillion Torii Gates

    The rows of vermillion torii gates standing before Harina Inari Shrine are truly spectacular. Each time you pass through a gate, your mindset shifts from the ordinary to the extraordinary, creating a sense of spiritual focus. Few shrines in Nagoya offer the sight of so many torii gates lined up together.

    They’re also perfect for photography, so be sure to capture a memorable shot during your visit.

    Finding Inner Peace in Tranquility

    Unlike nationally famous shrines such as Ise Grand Shrine or Atsuta Shrine, Harina Jinja typically doesn’t see large crowds of visitors. As a result, time flows peacefully within the grounds, allowing you to truly feel the sacred atmosphere.

    The ability to quietly clasp your hands together, reflect on yourself, and make inner vows about future goals and wishes is one of Harina Jinja’s unique charms.

    Allow Extra Time for New Year’s Visits

    During the first three days of the New Year, the shrine receives enormous numbers of visitors, and worship can take over three hours. If you prefer a more leisurely visit, we recommend coming at a different time of year. The mild seasons of spring and autumn are particularly ideal, when the natural beauty of the grounds is at its peak and perfect for strolling.

    Access Information

    Address

    175 Oaza Hirabari Daikon-ga-koshi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

    Access

    10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line

  • Enjoy Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Plus Izakaya Favorites! Relax in a Spacious Popular Tavern – Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Enjoy Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Plus Izakaya Favorites! Relax in a Spacious Popular Tavern – Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Located just steps from Hara Subway Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara” is an izakaya that excels at serving hearty set meals alongside traditional tavern fare. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, this popular local spot caters to a wide range of dining needs as both a set meal restaurant and izakaya.

    Extensive Japanese, Western & Chinese Set Meals Perfect for Travelers

    One of Tengu Daihall’s greatest attractions is the incredible variety of set meals available. With options spanning Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, you can choose whatever suits your mood on any given day.

    They offer grilled fish set meals and other traditional Japanese dishes, making it perfect for international travelers who want to “try Japanese fish dishes beyond sushi.” Rice portions can be ordered as regular, large, or extra-large servings, ideal for those wanting to savor Japan’s delicious rice to their heart’s content.

    Izakaya-Style Small Plates and Drinks Available Too

    Since this is fundamentally an izakaya, they offer an extensive menu of small plates and appetizers. You can easily order some snacks alongside your set meal and enjoy them with drinks. The casual atmosphere that allows drinking from lunchtime onward is another reason why both tourists and local regulars love this place.

    Spacious Table Seating for a Relaxed Dining Experience

    The interior features generously sized tables spread throughout a roomy space. Each seating area has partitions, creating a semi-private booth feeling that’s popular with families and groups.

    The spacious seating arrangement provides a comfortable environment where you can enjoy conversation and linger over your meal. Whether it’s a lunch break or an evening gathering, you can dine in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Instagram Perks Offer Weekly Freebies

    At Tengu Daihall, simply following their Instagram account earns you exciting perks. For example, they offer weekly rotating freebies like complimentary fried chicken, ice cream, or drinks that have proven extremely popular.

    Even small complimentary items like these can make your travel memories or everyday meals more enjoyable. Feel free to follow them and take advantage of these great deals.

    Featured on TV! A Popular Spot Even in Suburban Nagoya

    Despite being located in the somewhat suburban area of Hara in Tenpaku Ward, this restaurant has been featured on television for its unique menu and great value services. It has now become famous enough to attract customers from outside the city.

    Known by those in the know as the “ultimate value restaurant,” it’s definitely worth a visit as part of your Nagoya sightseeing.

    Weekend Reservations Recommended

    Weekends and holidays tend to get particularly busy, so we recommend making reservations if you’re planning to visit. As a convenient set meal spot to drop into during your sightseeing and an izakaya where you can enjoy the local atmosphere, Tengu Daihall Nagoya Hara is sure to be a satisfying dining experience.

    Access Information

    Address

    Hara 1-2106, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi 468-0015

    Access

    1-minute walk from Hara Subway Station

  • Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A must-visit spot where you can step into Toriyama’s world

    Beloved worldwide, Dragon Ball has captured the hearts of generations. I still remember visiting Germany around the year 2000, when I spotted the German edition in a local bookstore. Recognizing the scene made me feel as if I suddenly understood German—such is the universal power of Toriyama’s storytelling.

    More Than Just Dragon Ball – Who Was Akira Toriyama?

    One of the restaurants Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, was known to frequent is the Italian eatery Tenmentabo Aiueo, located in the Hirabari area of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward.

    Inside, you’ll find autographed illustrations and sketches from both Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump Arale-chan, giving the entire restaurant the feel of stepping into Toriyama’s creative universe. For fans, this is truly a special place worth visiting at least once.

    Generous Portions and Outstanding Flavor

    What makes “Tenmentabo Aiueo” stand out isn’t only its connection to Toriyama—it’s also renowned for its hearty portions and delicious food.

    Each dish is about 1.3 times the size of a typical restaurant serving, yet dishes are reasonably priced and authentically prepared. It’s easy to see why locals have continued to support this restaurant for so many years.

    For those who love oversized meals, there are also special “big portion” courses, perfect for sharing with friends. Stopping by here during your trip is a fun way to enjoy both good food and lively conversation.

    A Stylish Space with Japanese-Western Charm

    The interior is clean, spacious, and blends Japanese and Western design for a warm, relaxing atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely meal while savoring the restaurant’s generous servings.

    With space for up to 30 guests, the restaurant can also accommodate group dinners and casual parties, making it a great choice for travelers dining in groups.

    Summary

    For fans of Akira Toriyama, Tenmentabo Aiueo is nothing short of a pilgrimage spot. For food lovers, it is also a hidden gem offering outstanding flavor and impressive portions. Whether you come for the connection to Toriyama’s world or simply for the food, it promises to be a memorable dining experience.

    Access

    Address

    3-704 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi

    Subway

    Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line), Exit 1 – about 3 minutes on foot

  • Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A majestic shrine nestled in a city known for its livability

    The Ueda district of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward is a quiet residential area, beloved for its comfortable lifestyle, with local cafés and coffee shops scattered throughout the neighborhood. Amid this calm setting stands Ueda Hachiman Shrine, a spiritual landmark with a history dating back to the 1400s, making it over 600 years old.

    The enshrined deity is Emperor Ōjin, who was once revered by the Genji clan and many samurai warriors as their guardian. Even today, the shrine remains deeply respected by the local community.

    What Is a Hachimangu Shrine?

    A Place Steeped in History

    One of Ueda Hachiman Shrine’s most fascinating aspects lies in its location. It is built on an ancient burial mound believed to date back to around the 6th century. This area is thought to have once been the site of a small settlement, making the shrine grounds a rare place where traces of everyday life and spirituality have been interwoven for centuries.

    While locals may pass by without much thought, visitors often find themselves amazed to discover such deep layers of history hidden in this quiet neighborhood.

    Summer Ritual: Purification Through the“Chinowa”Ring

    Every July, around Marine Day, the shrine hosts the traditional Shinto ritual called “Nagoshi no Harae,” or the Great Summer Purification. A large ring made of reeds, known as a chinowa, is set up at the entrance. Worshippers walk through the ring to pray for good health and protection from illness.

    Although performed at many shrines across Japan, few people actually experience this ritual firsthand, making it a rare and memorable event for travelers.

    The Striking Arch Bridge

    Within the shrine grounds stands a rare and unusually steep arched bridge (soribashi). With its athletic, almost daring slope, it is not recommended for small children or those unsteady on their feet.

    Traditionally, rivers near shrines serve as symbolic boundaries between the human world and the sacred realm. Since Ueda Hachiman Shrine does not have a river, this distinctive arched bridge may instead act as a symbolic border, adding a deeper spiritual meaning to the experience of crossing it.

    A Calming Retreat Just Minutes from the Station

    Located only about 5 minutes on foot from Ueda Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the shrine is easily accessible. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood just off the main road, many first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised to find such an impressive shrine in this residential setting.

    Unlike bustling tourist spots, Ueda Hachiman Shrine offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere—a perfect place to slow down, reflect, and recharge.

    Visitor Information

    Address

    3-605 Ueda-nishi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
    Phone: 052-808-3818

    Access

    About a 5-minute walk from Ueda Station (Tsurumai Subway Line)

  • Plump Shrimp Katsu is Also Popular! Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu at Hyakunentei | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Renowned Restaurant Where Artisan Craftsmanship Shines in “Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu”

    Located near Ueda Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Hyakunentei” is a tonkatsu specialty restaurant featuring hand-flattened tonkatsu (“tenobe tonkatsu”) as their signature dish, lovingly prepared by the owner-chef. The restaurant’s name embodies their desire to “deliver flavors that will last a hundred years,” and true to its name, you can taste the meticulous craftsmanship in every single bite.

    They use only premium domestic pork. Their “tenobe” (hand-flattened) style involves hand-flattening each piece of meat after ordering, coating it with breadcrumbs, and deep-frying it to perfection. This technique creates an exquisite balance of meat thickness and tenderness with a remarkably light, crispy coating.

    Despite Being a Tonkatsu Restaurant, “Shrimp Katsu” is Their Secret Hit

    At Hyakunentei, the hidden gem on their menu is actually the “Shrimp Katsu.” The presentation is so stunning that it’s been praised on social media as having “an artistic cross-section!” Packed with plump, juicy shrimp, each bite bursts with incredible seafood flavor.

    This dish is particularly irresistible to female customers and shrimp lovers, with some devoted fans saying they “come here specifically for the shrimp katsu rather than the tonkatsu.” The visual impact and perfect flavor balance make it truly exceptional.

    Spacious, Clean Interior for a Relaxing Dining Experience

    The restaurant has a calm, understated exterior, and inside, you’ll find a spacious dining area with plenty of room between tables. The uniform table setup exudes cleanliness and appeals to customers of all ages.

    While famous tonkatsu restaurants often feel cramped with tight seating, Hyakunentei allows you to dine comfortably with plenty of space to enjoy your meal.

    No Reservations Accepted – Come Early and Be Prepared to Wait

    Unfortunately, they don’t accept reservations, and lines frequently form during lunch and dinner hours, especially on weekends and holidays. Wait times of 30 minutes or more are not uncommon, so if you want to avoid the wait, we recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening time.

    Unlimited Cabbage Refills and Miso Soup Served in Clay Pots

    Tonkatsu and cabbage go hand in hand, and at Hyakunentei, cabbage refills are complimentary. The crisp, fresh cabbage helps cut through the richness of the fried food, allowing you to enjoy your meal feeling refreshed until the very last bite.

    Additionally, the miso soup is served piping hot in traditional clay pots, staying warm until your final sip and significantly enhancing your overall dining satisfaction.

    A Small Post-Meal Delight: Ice Cream Served with a Flower Vase

    After your meal, you’ll be served cool vanilla ice cream alongside a small glass flower vase. This refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end your meal, accompanied by a heartwarming presentation that soothes the soul.

    You can feel the restaurant’s thoughtful attention to “delighting the eyes as well as the palate,” creating a memorable experience that stays with every visitor.

    Access Information

    Address

    2-100 Uedahonmachi, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0007

    Access

    10-minute walk from Ueda Subway Station

  • A Hidden Gem in Nagoya: Shidare Plum Blossoms and Fresh Milk Soft-Serve Ice Cream at dela Farm｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A Green Escape in the Heart of the City

    Looking for a break from the busy streets of Nagoya? The Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm” is the perfect getaway. With wide grassy lawns, greenhouses, and friendly farm animals, this free-entry park offers a relaxing experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It’s hard to believe such a peaceful spot exists just a short train ride from the city center!

    What’s in a Name? The Story of “dela Farm”

    The nickname “dela Farm” was chosen in 2015 to mark the center’s 50th anniversary. “Dela” comes from the Nagoya dialect word meaning “very” or “super,” a phrase locals often use in everyday life. It also stands for delicious, enjoy, learn, agriculture, perfectly capturing the park’s mission as a place to experience food, fun, and farming.

    Must-Try: Homemade Soft-Serve Ice Cream

    No visit is complete without tasting the farm’s famous soft-serve ice cream, made from fresh milk produced right on-site. It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Gelato is also available, sometimes with seasonal flavors, so you’ll want to come back for more.

    Meet the Animals

    Say hello to cows, sheep, chickens, and even newly hatched chicks. Watching the chicks in the incubator is always a heartwarming highlight, especially for kids. The park’s paths are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, making it an easy and comfortable stop for everyone.

    Seasonal Highlights

    If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the Plum Blossom Festival, when hundreds of colorful blossoms create a picture-perfect backdrop. Food stalls selling local fruits, sweets, and snacks make the atmosphere festive and fun. Other unique activities, like meeting Nagoya’s famous Yagoto carrots or chick-handling experiences, add an extra touch of local charm.

    Try Japanese-Style BBQ at “BBQ CANVAS Hirabari”

    Want to enjoy a Japanese BBQ without any hassle? Head to BBQ CANVAS Hirabari, a reservation-only spot inside the park where everything is provided—grills, charcoal, tableware, and even cleanup service. Just bring your own food, or choose one of the ready-to-go set menus.

    You can rent the space for up to 6 hours. Prices start from 1,700 yen for the equipment set, or 3,400 yen including ingredients (children’s pricing available). With scenic views and local specialties like Nagoya Cochin chicken, it’s the perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon with friends or family.

    Why Visit dela Farm?

    Whether you’re here for the flowers, the animals, or the soft-serve ice cream, dela Farm is a must-visit hidden gem in Nagoya. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and make lasting memories—without leaving the city.

    Access

    Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm”
    2872-3 Kuroishi, Hirabari, Tempaku-cho, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

    By Subway

    Take the Tsurumai Line and get off at Hirabari Station. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk.

    By Bus

    From Hirabari Station, take a city bus bound for “Subway Hara” and get off at Nogyo Center Kita. The farm is just a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.

  • Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Located on the banks of the Shonai River in Nagoya’s Kita Ward, Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu is a beloved local super-sento (large public bath). Renovated in 2021, the facility has been completely refreshed, offering a clean and welcoming environment. Every visit leaves you feeling comfortable and relaxed, making you want to return again and again.

    Refresh Your Mind and Body in Beautifully Maintained Baths

    The bath area offers a wide variety of baths, allowing visitors to choose based on their fatigue or mood. In addition to classic options like jet baths, electric baths, and carbonated springs, there are also unique and individual baths to enjoy.

    Among them, the author’s personal favorite is the “lying-down bath”. Designed slightly deeper than similar baths at other facilities, it allows you to fully immerse your neck and torso. Even in winter, you won’t feel your stomach getting cold, and the gentle warmth spreading throughout your body is wonderfully relaxing.

    The outdoor open-air bath also provides a view of the Shonai River, offering an extraordinary sense of escape that makes you forget you’re still in the heart of Nagoya.

    Detox and Relax in the Stone Sauna

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also features a variety of stone saunas. Each room differs in temperature and humidity, allowing visitors to choose according to their physical condition or preference.

    The stone sauna’s main appeal is its ability to refresh the body from the inside through sweating. Spending time slowly sweating while reading or chatting is truly a “rejuvenating experience.” Many couples and groups of friends visit, and unlike gender-segregated baths, everyone can enjoy it together, which adds to its popularity.

    Satisfying Restaurant and Relaxation Spaces

    After bathing or enjoying the stone sauna, visitors can relax and have a meal in the spacious restaurant area. The calm interior enhances the relaxing atmosphere, making it comfortable for families as well as solo visitors.

    The menu offers a wide range of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes, including set meals, noodles, rice bowls, and desserts. Seasonal specialties are also available, keeping even frequent visitors interested.

    In summer, a cold dish after a refreshing bath is especially enjoyable, while in winter, savoring a meal with a warm, relaxed body is simply perfect.

    Refresh Your Hair and Mind with the Onsite Haircut Service

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also has a barber shop on-site. Getting your hair done before bathing allows you to soak in the water feeling fresh and renewed. There are convenient set menus that combine a haircut and bath, making it ideal for those who want to make the most of their time.

    In busy daily life, visiting as a “self-care day” is highly recommended.

    Access

    1-132-1 Nishi-Ajima, Kita-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 462-0016

    From Sakae Station (Oasis 21 Bus Terminal)

    Board City Bus No. 8 bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 4 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

    From Kurokawa Station

    Board City Bus bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 9 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

  • Village Vanguard Flagship Store – The Birthplace of “Virevan”｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Where the playful bookstore culture began

    Village Vanguard is famous across Japan as the “bookstore you can play in.” Its very first store opened in 1986 in Ueda, a quiet neighborhood of Tempaku Ward, Nagoya. Even today, this flagship location keeps the same quirky atmosphere that started it all, offering visitors a mix of discovery, surprise, and fun.

    From the outside, the shop looks more like a casual garage store than a typical bookstore. Step inside, and you’ll find warm wooden floors, winding staircases, and a playful layout that makes browsing feel like an adventure. True to the brand’s spirit of creativity, even the displays are unusual—watches and wallets, for example, are arranged on a billiards table.

    An extraordinary find in an ordinary neighborhood

    The surrounding area of Ueda is a calm residential district. Against this everyday backdrop, the Village Vanguard flagship feels like a hidden world of subculture. The contrast between the quiet streets and this imaginative space makes the visit all the more memorable.

    A “not-so-Japanese” Japan that fascinates travelers

    The store is not limited to books. Visitors can browse through fashion, accessories, food items, novelty goods, and much more. The eclectic selection feels like wandering through an overseas marketplace, creating a sense of stepping outside Japan while still being in the heart of Nagoya.

    For international travelers, this flagship store often becomes a highlight of their trip. Unlike the many branch stores across the country, the Ueda location preserves the original style of Village Vanguard. For fans, it’s considered a kind of “pilgrimage site” where they can connect with the roots of the brand.

    Why you should visit

    Among the many Village Vanguard stores nationwide, the flagship in Tempaku Ward stands out with its unique atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience Japanese subculture, discover unusual souvenirs, or simply enjoy a bookstore that is anything but ordinary. Visiting the birthplace of “Virevan” is more than shopping—it’s a cultural experience in itself.

    Access

    1-515 Uedanishi, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0058
    A 10-minute walk from Ueda Station on the subway.