Nagoya Station Area Guide Meieki

Understanding the Nagoya Station Complex

Nagoya Station is not just a single station, but a complex of interconnected transportation hubs and commercial spaces. At its core are three major stations:

• JR Nagoya Station: The central station housed in the iconic JR Central Towers
• Meitetsu Nagoya Station: Adjacent to JR, serving the Nagoya Railroad
• Kintetsu Nagoya Station: Nearby, serving the Kintetsu Railway

The JR Central Towers, completed in 1999, dominate the skyline with twin 245-meter tall skyscrapers. These towers house offices, the Takashimaya department store, and the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel. The station itself is a marvel of engineering, boasting the title of world's largest station building by floor area, covering an impressive 410,000 square meters.

As you navigate the station, you'll find two main exits:

• Taiko Dori Exit (west side): Near the Shinkansen tracks and Silver Clock meeting point
• Sakura Dori Exit (east side): Home to the Gold Clock meeting point

These iconic clocks serve as popular meeting spots for locals and tourists alike. The central walkway connecting these exits is the main artery of the station, lined with shops, cafes, and a Tourist Information Office where you can get maps and assistance.

The soaring Twin Towers of Nagoya Station - the world's largest station building by area

JR Nagoya Station Building Twin Towers with the Hotel Tower on the left and the Office Tower on the right; the entrance to the Unimall underground shopping mall is in the foreground

Shopping Destinations Around Meieki

Nagoya Station Shopping offers a diverse range of options for every type of shopper. Each of the three main stations incorporates large department stores, creating a shopper's paradise:

• Takashimaya: Located in the JR Station building, it spans 11 floors above ground and two underground levels. It includes a branch of Tokyu Hands and Sanseido bookstore for English books.
• Meitetsu Department Store: Connected to Meitetsu Station, it focuses on fashion for men, women, and children.
• Kintetsu Department Store: Known as Kintetsu Pass'e, it specializes in women's fashion and accessories.

Underground shopping adds another dimension to the Meieki shopping experience. The Esca underground mall near the Taiko Dori exit leads to Bic Camera, a multi-floor electronics store with a discount liquor section in the basement. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's an avenue of brand shops including Fjall Raven, Mountain Hard Wear, and The North Face.

The nearby Midland Square offers luxury shopping with brands like Cartier, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. It's also home to Toyota's headquarters and a viewing gallery on the 44th floor called Sky Promenade, offering panoramic views of Nagoya.

Meitetsu Station & Department Store, Nagoya

BIC Camera Store at Meieki

Dining and Entertainment Options

The Nagoya Station Dining & Entertainment scene is diverse and vibrant, making Meieki one of Nagoya's best gourmet districts. From quick bites to fine dining, there's something for every palate and budget:

• JR Central Towers: The 12th and 13th floors of the hotel tower house a bustling restaurant area. On the 51st floor, Cafe du Ciel offers amazing city views.
• Underground Malls: A maze of eateries and fast food outlets cater to hungry commuters and shoppers.
• Chikamachi Lounge: This passageway between Midland Square and Winc Aichi conference center offers European-inspired and Asian eateries.
• JP Tower: Opened in 2017, it houses about 40 stores and restaurants, including a branch of Yokoi where you can try Nagoya's signature Ankake spaghetti.

For nightlife, British-style pubs like The Hub and Cooper's Arms are popular spots near the Sakuradori exit. Informal izakayas line the streets towards Kokusai Center subway station, with Choko Choko specializing in Japanese sake and noodles.

Don't miss the Yanagibashi market area, known as "Nagoya's kitchen". Here you'll find excellent sushi restaurants, as well as Italian and Spanish eateries, offering a more relaxed dining experience away from the station's hustle and bustle.

Notable Landmarks and Attractions

While Meieki is primarily known for its transportation and commercial offerings, there are several notable attractions in the area:

• Mode Gakuen Spiral Towers: This 170-meter tall, uniquely designed building houses three vocational schools and is a striking addition to Nagoya's skyline.
• Nana-chan: A giant mannequin standing 6.1 meters tall outside the Meitetsu Department Store, serving as a popular meeting point and Nagoya icon since 1973.
• Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology: Located about a 15-minute walk from the station, this museum showcases Toyota's history from textile looms to automobiles.
• Noritake Garden: A short walk from the station, this complex includes a museum, craft center, and gardens dedicated to Noritake tableware's history and production.

For those interested in local culture, the Yanagibashi Fish Market (Yanagibashi Chuo Ichiba) offers a glimpse into Nagoya's culinary world. While smaller than Tokyo's famous markets, it's a great place to experience local life and sample fresh seafood.

View of Nagoya showing the 170m-tall Mode Gakuen Spiral Towers and the Kintetsu & Meitetsu Stations

Yanagibashi Market, Meieki, Nagoya

Accommodation Choices Near Nagoya Station

Nagoya Station Hotels cater to all types of travelers, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious backpackers. Here are some top choices:

• Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel: A 5-star hotel located in the JR Central Towers, offering stunning city views.
• Meitetsu Grand Hotel: Connected to the Meitetsu Department Store, it offers convenient access to shopping and dining.
• Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Ekimae: A large, reasonably-priced business hotel close to the station.
• Eco Hotel Nagoya: A budget-friendly option just 100 meters from the west exit of JR Nagoya station.

For those seeking unique accommodations, consider the capsule hotel in the Meitetsu Lejac building. It offers a distinctly Japanese experience at an affordable price.

Transportation Hub: Getting To and From Meieki

Nagoya Station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting Nagoya to the rest of Japan and facilitating travel within the city:

• Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Nagoya to major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
• JR Lines: Regular trains serve regional destinations on the Tokaido, Chuo, and Kansai Main Lines.
• Meitetsu and Kintetsu Railways: These private railways connect to surrounding prefectures and Nagoya Airport.
• Nagoya Subway: The Higashiyama and Sakura-dori lines provide easy access to other parts of the city.
• Nagoya city buses: The new indoor bus terminal at the Sakura-dori Exit serves various city destinations.

For tourists, the Me~guru Sightseeing Route Bus is an excellent way to explore Nagoya's attractions. It passes by major sights like Nagoya Castle and the Tokugawa Art Museum.

Hidden Gems and Local Experiences

While Meieki is known for its modern amenities, there are several hidden gems that offer a more local experience:

• Shikemichi Old Town: A short stroll from the station, this preserved area showcases Edo-era architecture and traditional crafts.
• Yanagibashi Area: Beyond the fish market, this area comes alive at night with local bars and eateries. It's a great place to experience Nagoya's nightlife away from the touristy spots.
• Chikamachi Lounge: This underground passage offers a mix of local and international dining options in a unique setting.
• Café de Ciel: Located on the 51st floor of the JR Central Towers, this café offers spectacular views of Nagoya, especially beautiful at sunset.

For a taste of local life, consider visiting during one of Nagoya's festivals. The Nagoya Festival in October features parades and traditional performances, while the World Cosplay Summit in August transforms the area into a colorful celebration of pop culture.

As you explore Meieki, remember that it's not just a place to pass through, but a destination in itself. From its architectural marvels to its hidden local spots, Nagoya Station Area offers a unique blend of modern Japan and traditional culture. Whether you're here for a quick stopover or an extended stay, Meieki promises an enriching experience that captures the essence of Nagoya.