Short history

Nagoya is a very old city by any standard, having been founded in the early 15th century. Nagoya Castle, known for the pair of golden dolphins on its roof, was built approximately four hundred years ago. Following the development of the castle town, Nagoya grew into a metropolis as commerce and industry prospered and culture flourished.

The culture and tradition of manufacturing blossomed during the Meiji period, and has continued to evolve into the present. Currently the region is home to leading Japanese manufacturing industries in fields such as automobiles, with expanding developments overseas.

In addition, the pre-modern culture of the samurai families retains a strong presence in places such as the Tokugawa Art Museum, achieving a balance between industry and culture. Efforts are also underway to create a city addressing environmental concerns, in which its citizens can coexist with nature.

With the occurrence of the 2005 World Exposition and the opening of the Central Japan International Airport “Centrair”, Nagoya aims to be a vital city becoming for this era of change and development.