Country | Japan |
Area | 326.45 km2 (126.04 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+09:00 (Japan Standard Time) |
Coordinates | 35.18147, 136.90641 |
Highest elevation | None |
City Gallery
City Description
Nagoya, Japan, is a bustling metropolis located on the Pacific coast in central Honshu. As the largest city in the Chūbu region, Nagoya stands as the fourth-most populous city in Japan with around 2.3 million residents as of 2020. The city is also the heart of the Chūkyō metropolitan area, which is the third-largest metropolitan area in Japan, home to over 10 million people.
Founded in 1610 by the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nagoya became significant when he moved the capital of Owari Province from Kiyosu to Nagoya. This historical shift led to the renovation of the iconic Nagoya Castle, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. During the Meiji Restoration, Nagoya’s economic landscape transformed dramatically, positioning the city as a major industrial hub.
Nagoya’s economy thrives on a mix of traditional and modern industries. Originally known for its timepieces, bicycles, and sewing machines, the city has evolved into a powerhouse for special steels, ceramics, chemicals, oil, and petrochemicals. Its automobile, aviation, and shipbuilding sectors have bolstered its status as a significant industrial and transport center in Japan. The city was targeted during World War II due to its industrial significance but has since diversified and expanded its economic base.
The city is strategically connected with Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka through the Tokaido Shinkansen, enhancing its role in national and international transport. Nagoya is also home to the Nagoya Stock Exchange and headquarters for several major companies, including Brother Industries, Ibanez, Lexus, and Toyota Tsusho.
Educationally, Nagoya boasts prestigious institutions such as Nagoya University, the Nagoya Institute of Technology, and Nagoya City University. It also features notable landmarks like the Atsuta Shrine, Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, Nagoya Castle, Hisaya Ōdori Park, and the Nagoya TV Tower, one of Japan’s oldest.
Nagoya’s cultural scene is vibrant, with the city preparing to host the 2026 Asian Games, following Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. Known for its industrial prowess and cultural richness, Nagoya continues to play a crucial role in Japan’s economic and cultural landscape.
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