Nagoya - Peaceful and Vibrant  2/2003

Whether sitting on a park bench to admire a tranquil scene of Nagoya Castle rising behind the sparkling waters of the moat below it or savoring a deep breath of fragrant air while strolling through the wooded area around Atsuta Shrine, there are many moments of serenity to be enjoyed when visiting Nagoya. Then stare in awe at an endless display of color as the sky above the city is lit up with tens of thousands of fireworks.

Nagoya Port Fireworks
The Japanese people’s love for magnificent fireworks is particularly noticeable in and around Nagoya where the skies are frequently alight with color in the summer season. One of the most breath taking displays of firework displays is hosted by the Nagoya Port Authority in July.

Port Firework	Nagoya Festival

Nagoya Festival
Of the many events in this area Nagoya festival held in autumn is surely the highlight. The main attraction is a six-kilometer long parade of more than 5,600 people in traditional costumes, featuring Nobunaga, Hideyoshi and leyasu, three heroic shogun native to this area who shaped Japanese history.

Karakuri Dolls
Although Japan is better known for advanced technology of recent years, there is a long history of inventiveness starting with Karakuri dolls. These wooden automated puppets are the forerunner to modern day robots and can still be found around the city.

Karakuri Dolls	Shirakawa Village	Korankei Valley

Shirakawa Village
Visitors flock throughout the year to admire the Gassho style houses at this internationally renowned world cultural and natural heritage site. Traditional Japanese architectural technology adds beauty to the already stunning mountainous landscape.

Korankei Valley
It’s hard to believe that such beautiful natural scenery can be enjoyed so close to the large city. The red and gold autumn foliage of some 4,000 maples with branches reaching out over crystal clear water is a sight not to be missed.

- Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau