Oasis 21 looking at MIRAI TOWER in Nagoya Japan (4)

Updated: September 12, 2026

Where to Stay in Nagoya, Japan: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info

Planning a trip to Nagoya soon but have no clue where to stay? You’re in the right place!

Nagoya is a large, modern city packed with fascinating museums, buzzing entertainment districts, and fantastic local food. It also has excellent subway and rail connections, but the city is far too spread out to explore entirely on foot, so choosing a well-connected base can save you a lot of time.

We know it isn’t easy to narrow down your options. So to help you find the right fit for your trip, we’ve rounded up the four best areas to stay in Nagoya, plus our favorite hotels for every budget.

Ready? Let’s get to it!

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

This is the area and hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our FAVORITE area to stay in is Sakae! This is the main downtown area, full of the top city sights, great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. You won’t be bored here!

We recommend staying at Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae, which offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!

Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae in Nagoya Japan 3

Photo credit: Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae

Where to Stay in Nagoya Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Nagoya

Oasis 21 looking at MIRAI TOWER in Nagoya Japan (1)
Oasis 21 and MIRAI TOWER
Bailey and Daniel enjoy a drink in Nagoya Japan (2)
If you enjoy nightlife and a lively atmosphere, Nishiki is the place to be

Nagoya is a lot bigger than you might expect, but it’s pretty easy to get around, as long as you stay near a train or subway station. The four areas in this guide are all well connected with local transport and suitable for anyone traveling to the city without a car. 

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick overview of the four best areas to stay in Nagoya and our top hotel picks for each. 

  • Sakae – Best for first-time visitors This central district puts Hisaya-odori Park, Oasis 21, MIRAI TOWER, huge department stores, and lots of restaurants within easy reach. Our top pick here is Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae, which has comfortable rooms and a breakfast buffet featuring local specialties, all just a five-minute walk from Yabacho Station.
  • Nagoya Station Best for transport and day trips The city’s main transport hub gives you easy access to the Shinkansen, airport trains, subway lines, department stores, restaurants, and enormous underground shopping areas. Our favorite place to stay here is Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel, which is directly connected to the station and has a fitness room, a 15th-floor lobby, and an incredible breakfast buffet. 
  • Fushimi – Best for a quieter central stay Located between Nagoya Station and Sakae, Fushimi has a more relaxed atmosphere while keeping you close to the Nagoya City Science Museum and Nagoya City Art Museum. Our top pick here is Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae; it’s just a four-minute walk from Fushimi Station and has an open-air onsen, plus complimentary late-night ramen.
  • Nishiki Best for nightlife and diningSet between Fushimi and Sakae, Nagoya’s main entertainment district is packed with restaurants, izakayas, and late-night karaoke spots. Our favorite stay here is Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya, which is just one minute from Hisaya-odori Station and has a relaxing onsen on the top floor. 

Important Tip

Multiple Nagoya trips have taught me that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Nagoya accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in Nagoya

Sakae

MIRAI TOWER in Nagoya, Japan
The iconic MIRAI TOWER
Bailey-eats-ramen-in-Nagoya Japan-1
This area is loaded with great restaurants

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

  • Excellent all-round location for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and nightlife
  • Easy walking access to Hisaya-odori Park, Oasis 21, MIRAI TOWER, and major department stores
  • Served by both the Higashiyama and Meijo subway lines

Cons

  • Hotels and parking can be more expensive than in quieter parts of the city
  • Streets can feel busy and crowded, especially on weekends

If you’re visiting Nagoya for the very first time, Sakae is an excellent place to base yourself. It’s lively, incredibly convenient, and packed with restaurants, shops, and attractions, so you’ll have plenty to do without having to constantly hop on and off the subway.

Many of Nagoya’s best-known modern landmarks are also right here. You can stroll through Hisaya-odori Park, admire the futuristic glass roof of Oasis 21, and head up MIRAI TOWER for views across the city, all within the space of an afternoon. Sakae is also home to several major department stores, while the restaurants and izakayas of Nishiki are close enough for an easy evening out.

Transport is another huge advantage. Both the Higashiyama and Meijo subway lines stop at Sakae Station, and Nagoya Station is just a short ride away. This makes it easy to explore other areas of the city or region, while still having plenty within walking distance of your hotel.

Of course, all that convenience comes with a little extra noise and higher hotel prices during busy periods. However, if you want to step outside each morning with a long list of things to see, eat, and do nearby, Sakae is hard to beat. Trust us, even a rainy afternoon won’t go to waste here!

The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya – $$$

The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya

For a stylish high-rise stay in the heart of Sakae, look no further than The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya. It occupies the 24th through 32nd floors of the Chunichi Building and offers incredible views toward Nagoya Castle, Hisaya-odori Park, and MIRAI TOWER.

The hotel is also directly connected to Sakae and Sakaemachi stations through the underground mall, which is honestly a lifesaver when it’s raining or super hot out!

Back at the hotel, you’ll find a tea lounge, four restaurants, a fitness center with a sauna, and a rooftop bar. As for pricing, rooms typically cost between ¥38,300 and ¥80,900 ($250–$550 USD) per night.

If The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Nagoya is fully booked, Nagoya Tokyu Hotel is another luxurious option just five minutes from Sakae Station. It has elegant European-style rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and several restaurants.

For something even more indulgent, TIAD, Autograph Collection sits directly opposite Yaba-cho Station and offers huge rooms, a beautiful indoor pool, a spa, and views over Hisaya-odori Park.

Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae – $$

Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae in Nagoya Japan 2
Photo credit: Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae
Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae

For our top mid-range pick in Sakae, we recommend Hotel Forza Nagoya Sakae. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Yaba-cho Station and around a 7-minute walk from Sakae Station, so getting around the city couldn’t be easier. 

We also love that this hotel provides a portable electric massager in every room; a small perk your legs will definitely appreciate after a full day of sightseeing! The breakfast buffet also serves a mix of local, Japanese, and Western favorites, which we always appreciate. 

Rooms generally cost between ¥19,900 and ¥42,900 ($130-$280 USD) per night, depending on the season. In our opinion, this is excellent value for a modern hotel in central Sakae.

Another mid-range option in the area is GOLD STAY Nagoya Sakae. This apartment-style hotel is only a 10-minute walk from Sakae Station, and the rooms here are equipped with kitchenettes and in-room washing machines. 

the b nagoya – $

the b nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: the b nagoya
the b nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: the b nagoya

If you’re looking for something even more budget-friendly, the b nagoya is a fantastic choice. It’s just a 3-minute walk from Exit 13 of Sakae Station and less than five minutes walking from Yaba-cho Station, putting two of Nagoya’s most useful subway lines within easy reach.

The rooms here are simple, but it’s the little extras that make this hotel stand out. For example, you’ll enjoy free coffee in the lobby, plus every room comes with a fridge, which is super handy for storing drinks and snacks. There’s also a 24-hour convenience store downstairs, so you can grab breakfast or a late-night treat whenever you need one.

Price-wise, rooms typically cost a very reasonable ¥6,600–¥14,000+ ($45–$95+ USD) per night.

Another budget-friendly option we love is Best Western Plus Nagoya Sakae. It’s only a 4-minute walk from Sakae Station and offers a generous mix of Japanese and Western favorites at breakfast. 

Hotel Route-Inn Nagoya Sakae is also worth checking out. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Sakae Station, and every room has a fridge! 

Why We Book Hotels on Booking.com

Booking.com is a trusted online booking platform for hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and boutique stays around the world. We’ve been using Booking.com to reserve our accommodations for over a decade, and we keep coming back for a few key reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most properties – Many hotels on Booking.com offer flexible cancellation policies, which is especially helpful if your travel plans change unexpectedly or you’re still finalizing your itinerary.
  • Reserve now, pay later – Many properties allow you to book your stay in advance without paying up front, giving you more flexibility when planning your trip.
  • Verified reviews – One of the best things about Booking.com is the large number of verified reviews from real travelers. This helps give you a much better idea of what to actually expect before booking.
  • Peace of mind – Booking.com offers a secure and reliable way to book accommodations, which is especially helpful when traveling in remote countries or unfamiliar destinations. Their customer service is also very helpful if you ever run into a problem!
  • Price match promise – Booking.com offers a price-match policy for many properties. If you find the same room for a lower price after booking, you may be eligible to have the difference refunded. We’ve used this feature many times!
  • Loyalty rewards and discounts – Booking.com’s Genius loyalty program offers discounts, free room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, and other perks at many properties around the world. The more you book, the more benefits you unlock.

Nagoya Station

Midland Square at night in Nagoya Japan
The Midland Square luxury mall
Nagoya Station and people walking through it in Nagoya, Japan
Nagoya Station is one of the busiest in Japan!

BEST FOR TRANSPORT AND DAY TRIPS

Pros

  • Direct Shinkansen, airport, subway, and regional train connections
  • Huge selection of restaurants, shops, and department stores
  • Ideal for day trips and early-morning departures

Cons

  • The enormous station complex can be confusing at first
  • The area feels more commercial than Sakae or Fushimi

If you’re planning lots of day trips or only have a night or two in Nagoya, staying near Nagoya Station will make your life so much easier.

This is the city’s main transport hub, with Shinkansen, subway, airport, and regional train services all departing from one enormous complex. You can travel directly to Chubu Centrair International Airport on the Meitetsu line or hop aboard the Shinkansen for Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo without dragging your luggage across the city first.

The station is also surrounded by department stores, restaurants, and underground shopping malls, so there’s no shortage of places to eat or pick up last-minute essentials. The east side is home to the JR Central Towers and Midland Square luxury mall, while the west side puts you closer to the Shinkansen exits and Esca underground mall. 

Admittedly, Nagoya Station can feel like a maze on your very first visit, and the surrounding streets don’t have quite as much character as Sakae or Fushimi. But if you’ll be spending more time out on day trips than in Nagoya itself, staying near Nagoya Station really is a no-brainer. You’ll save time, simplify early departures, and have everything you could ever need right on your doorstep. 

Nikko Style Nagoya – $$$

Nikko Style Nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Nikko Style Nagoya
Nikko Style Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Nikko Style Nagoya

Our luxury pick near the station is Nikko Style Nagoya. It’s around a 10-minute walk from Nagoya Station and six minutes from Kokusai Center Station, so you’ll have easy access to trains without staying amid the busiest station crowds.

We love that this hotel doesn’t feel like a standard city stay. Music is a big part of the experience, with a DJ booth downstairs and high-quality Genelec speakers in every room (so fun!). There’s also a cafe-bar where you can relax over a drink, plus a restaurant, 24-hour gym, and bicycle rentals. 

Rooms typically cost between ¥23,000 and ¥61,200 ($150–$400+ USD) per night, which is honestly such a steal for the area. 

If Nikko Style Nagoya is all booked up on your preferred dates, Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel is a solid backup. It sits directly above JR Nagoya Station and has an indoor pool, a sauna, and eight restaurants. 

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel – $$

Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel
Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel

For our top mid-range in the area, we recommend Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel. The hotel is directly connected to JR Nagoya Station, so catching the Shinkansen, subway, or local trains is incredibly easy. 

The lobby sits on the 15th floor of JR Gate Tower, and the bright, modern rooms have high ceilings, city views, and in-room tablets. There’s also a 24-hour gym, while the on-site restaurant serves up a seriously good breakfast. 

Rooms generally range from ¥30,000 to ¥53,600 ($200–$350+ USD) per night. It isn’t the cheapest mid-range option on this list, but we think the high-floor views and direct station access make it well worth considering.

Another mid-range option near Nagoya Station is Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier. This is a seriously stylish hotel crowned by an 18th-floor bar and restaurant with panoramic city views.

The Royal Park Canvas Nagoya is another modern, mid-range option worth checking out. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Sakura-dori Exit and directly connected to Unimall Exit U10. 

VIA INN NAGOYA EKIMAE TSUBAKICHO – $

Via Inn Nagoya Station Tsubakicho in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Via Inn Nagoya Station Tsubakicho
Via Inn Nagoya Station Tsubakicho in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Via Inn Nagoya Station Tsubakicho

For something a bit more budget-friendly, you can’t go wrong with VIA INN. It’s less than a 5-minute walk from Nagoya Station’s Taiko-dori Exit and only a 2-minute walk from Esca underground mall. 

Rooms here are compact but modern, with soundproofing so you’ll get a good night’s sleep! You’ll also get a bathrobe for a little extra comfort, plus access to luggage storage, which is super handy for early arrivals and late departures. 

Rooms typically cost between ¥8,000 and ¥19,000 ($50–$120 USD) per night, which is excellent value for a hotel this close to the Shinkansen.

If you need a backup option near the station, APA Hotel Nagoya Ekimae is also worth a look.  The biggest draw here is the spa facilities and open-air onsen, plus a restaurant serving Irish and Japanese cuisines. 

We also love Sanco Inn Nagoya, which is just one minute from the Shinkansen exit and right beside Esca Mall. We especially love that you get to choose your pillow from the hotel’s pillow menu here, which is absolutely genius! 

Fushimi

Outside the Fuji Nagoya Science Museum in Nagoya Japan
The Fuji Nagoya Science Museum Planetarium
A display inside the Fuji Nagoya Science Museum in Nagoya Japan
There are some incredible displays here you’ll want to see

BEST FOR A QUIETER, CENTRAL STAY

Pros

  • Calmer central setting with museums, restaurants, and easy subway access
  • Just one subway stop from both Nagoya Station and Sakae
  • Several excellent hotels across different budgets

Cons

  • Business-focused streets can feel very quiet after office hours
  • Fewer shops and entertainment venues compared to Sakae

If you want to stay somewhere central without being surrounded by crowds, you should definitely look at staying in Fushimi. This business district sits neatly between Nagoya Station and Sakae, with both only one stop away on the Higashiyama Line. The Tsurumai Line also passes through Fushimi Station, so getting around the wider city is super easy.

Fushimi is also home to two of Nagoya’s biggest cultural attractions: the Nagoya City Science Museum and Nagoya City Art Museum. You can walk to both, wander beside the Horikawa River, or head into Nishiki for dinner without venturing too far from your hotel. Nagoya Station is also around 15 to 20 minutes away on foot, depending on where you stay, so even early trains and day trips should be easy to manage. 

Before you book, know that the area does have more of a business vibe and can feel noticeably quieter after office hours. However, if you prefer returning to peaceful streets after a busy day of sightseeing, you’ll probably see the quieter atmosphere as a bonus. 

We especially recommend Fushimi for couples, museum lovers, and anyone who wants the convenience of central Nagoya without staying right in the middle of the chaos. 

Hilton Nagoya – $$$

Hilton Nagoya Hotel in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Hilton Nagoya Hotel
Hilton Nagoya Hotel in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Hilton Nagoya Hotel

For a full-service luxury stay in Fushimi, we can’t recommend Hilton Nagoya enough. It’s only a 3-minute walk to Fushimi Station, and around 15 minutes on foot from Nagoya Station, so you’ll be well-placed for local sightseeing and day trips. 

The facilities here are also fantastic. There’s an indoor pool, a 24-hour gym, a rooftop tennis court, and several on-site restaurants serving international, Cantonese, and Japanese cuisine. 

Rooms typically range from ¥29,000 to ¥64,000+ ($180–$400+ USD) per night. It’s a splurge, but in our opinion, the facilities and location are well worth the premium price. 

If you’d like another option, we also love Nagoya Kanko Hotel. This five-star hotel is just a 2-minute walk from Fushimi Station and has five on-site restaurants, a library lounge, and stunning spa facilities. 

Courtyard by Marriott Nagoya is also worth checking out. It’s near the Horikawa River (the views are fabulous!) but still just a 10-minute walk from Fushimi Station. 

Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae – $$

Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae
Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae in Nagoya Japan 2
Photo credit: Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae

For our mid-range pick (and top overall pick in Fushimi), we recommend Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae

This hotel is within walking distance of both Fushimi and Sakae stations. But what we really love is its open-air onsen and sauna facilities, which are so nice to have access to after a full day on your feet. Guests also receive complimentary late-night ramen, so you’ll have something tasty waiting after your evening soak. 

Rooms typically cost between ¥23,000 and ¥50,000 ($150–$325 USD) per night, which is seriously hard to beat with all those extras included.

If Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae is all booked up on your preferred dates, Hotel JAL City Nagoya Nishiki is a fantastic alternative. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Fushimi Station and offers spacious, modern rooms. 

LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL Nagoya – $

LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL Nagoya
LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL Nagoya

If your perfect evening involves curling up with a good book, you will absolutely love LAMP LIGHT BOOKS HOTEL Nagoya

This charming hotel revolves around a 24-hour bookstore and cafe, with cozy rooms designed for curling up with a good book. Dimmable lighting, reading lamps, sofas, and ottomans make it easy to settle in for the evening. And when you’re ready to venture out, you’ll still be within walking distance of Shimozono Park, Exit 10 of Fushimi Station, the Science Museum, and Nishiki dining streets.

Rooms generally cost between ¥15,300 and ¥30,600 ($100–$200 USD) per night. For such a distinctive hotel concept in central Nagoya, you can’t get much better than that!

Another budget-friendly option we like to recommend is Comfort Hotel Nagoya Fushimi. It’s 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from Nagoya Station, and we love that the complimentary breakfast includes both American and Japanese options.

We’re also big fans of Prince Smart Inn Nagoya Sakae, which is just a 3-minute walk from Fushimi Station. A convenient grab-and-go breakfast is included, while Nagoya Station is only one subway stop away.

Japan Rail Pass!

The Easiest Way to Travel Japan By Train

If you’re planning to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is hands down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. It’s a special 7, 14, or 21 day pass for foreign visitors that gives you unlimited rides on Japan’s famous JR trains, including the high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains)!

Why We Love the JR Pass

  • Unlimited travel on most JR trains across Japan (and even some buses and ferries).
  • Fast and flexible – reserve seats if you like, or simply hop aboard most trains without booking in advance.
  • Big savings if you plan to visit multiple cities (think Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka and beyond).
  • Convenient – no need to buy separate tickets for every trip.

Pro Tip: If you’re only exploring one region of Japan, consider a Regional Pass instead (like the Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu Pass). They’re cheaper and perfect for smaller trips!

Where to Get Your Pass

We personally recommend buying your pass online in advance through JRPass.com — they’re an official reseller with fast worldwide delivery and English support, making the whole process super simple. They even offer handy add-ons like pocket WIFI and meet & greet services! Still not sure if the JR Pass is right for you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Japan Rail Pass for a full breakdown of costs, inclusions, and when it’s worth it!

Nishiki

Oasis 21 looking at MIRAI TOWER in Nagoya Japan (3)
The view of MIRAI TOWER from Oasis 21

BEST FOR NIGHTLIFE AND DINING

Pros

  • Packed with restaurants, izakayas, bars, and late-night dining
  • Central location between Fushimi and Sakae
  • Plenty of affordable hotels close to subway stations

Cons

  • Some streets can be noisy late into the night
  • The atmosphere may not suit families with young children
  • Fewer true luxury and traditional-style hotels than other central areas

If eating and drinking your way around Nagoya is high on your list of priorities, Nishiki is definitely the place to stay! This lively entertainment district sits between Fushimi and Sakae, and it’s absolutely packed with restaurants, izakayas, bars, karaoke venues, and late-night spots. 

During the day, you can easily walk to Oasis 21, Hisaya-odori Park, MIRAI TOWER, and Sakae’s huge department stores. Fushimi and its museums are also close by, so you’ll still be well placed for sightseeing. Then, once evening arrives, you can hop between restaurants and izakayas before walking back to your hotel. 

Of course, some streets can get pretty noisy, and the nightlife-focused atmosphere won’t suit everyone. Families and light sleepers may prefer nearby Fushimi, which is a lot calmer. And if you have lots of early starts, you may want to stay closer to Nagoya Station.

However, if you’re excited to experience Nagoya after dark, this is exactly where you’ll want to be. Nishiki also has plenty of affordable hotels, and for foodies, couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends, it’s a fun and incredibly convenient base.

The Tower Hotel Nagoya – $$$

The Tower Hotel Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 3
Photo credit: The Tower Hotel Nagoya
The Tower Hotel Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 2
Photo credit: The Tower Hotel Nagoya

For our top luxury pick in Nishiki, it’s gotta be The Tower Hotel Nagoya

This small, art-focused hotel is actually built inside MIRAI TOWER in Hisaya-odori Park, which makes staying here feel like an experience in itself! You’ll also find French-inspired restaurants, a fitness center, and an observation deck with incredible views across the city.

Location-wise, Sakae Station is only a couple of minutes’ walk away, while Oasis 21 and Sakae’s shops are also within easy walking distance. As for pricing, you can expect rooms to typically range from ¥50,500 to ¥147,500 ($300–$920+ USD) per night.

Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya – $$

Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya
Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Nagoya

Next up is Nishitetsu Hotel Croom, which is just a block away from the Hisaya-odori Station and a 7-minute walk from Sakae Station and Oasis 21. 

What we love most about this hotel is the large bathhouse on the top floor, complete with an open-air section where you can relax and unwind. Rooms also come with smart TVs and massage pillows, while breakfast includes a mix of local and American-style favorites. 

In terms of pricing, rooms usually cost between ¥23,000 and ¥49,000 ($150–$320 USD) per night, which is very reasonable for the location. 

Hotel Keihan Nagoya – $

Hotel Keihan Nagoya in Nagoya Japan
Photo credit: Hotel Keihan Nagoya
Hotel Keihan Nagoya in Nagoya Japan 1
Photo credit: Hotel Keihan Nagoya

If you want to be near Nishiki’s nightlife but still get a good night’s sleep, Hotel Keihan Nagoya is a fantastic budget-friendly option. It sits on a slightly quieter block in the area, but it’s still within easy walking distance of Nishiki’s best restaurants and bars.

The rooms here are modern, soundproofed (a non-negotiable near Nishiki!), and fully equipped with all the essentials. You’ll also have access to coin laundry facilities, plus an incredible breakfast spread each morning. 

You can expect rooms to typically cost between ¥13,000 and ¥24,000 ($85 and $150+ USD) per night, depending on the season and room type.

If Hotel Keihan Nagoya is fully booked, Hotel Actel Nagoya Nishiki is another convenient option near Sakae Station. We love this hotel because it has a women-only floor, coin laundry facilities, and complimentary coffee. 

Comfort Inn Nagoya is another modern hotel worth considering. It sits opposite Don Quijote, with Sakae Station, Oasis 21, MIRAI TOWER, and Hisaya-odori Park all less than a 5-minute walk away.

Related Read: If you need a few activities to fill your time, check out our blog on the best things to do in Nagoya here!

Book your Airport Taxi in advance

Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!

Top Activities in Nagoya

Ghibli Park seen on a tour from Nagoya Japan 1 (5)
Exploring Ghibli Park is an absolute must for Ghibli fans!
taiyaki eaten on a food tour in Nagoya Japan
Be sure to try taiyaki on the food tour!

Now that you’ve picked out the perfect area and hotel to stay at while in Nagoya, you can plan the rest of your trip! There is plenty to do within the city and some great day trips at your fingertips, but here are our top five things to add to your itinerary.

  • See Nagoya’s highlights – If you’re short on time, this sightseeing tour of Nagoya is the best way to go! Visit Nagoya Castle, Oasis 21, Sakae, Osu Shopping Street, and Osu Kannon Temple, all with a local guide so you can learn and explore with ease.
  • Explore Ghibli Park – For Studio Ghibli fans, you can’t miss this day trip to Ghibli Park! Booking this tour makes visiting easy, as it includes admission tickets (which sell out months in advance), transportation, lunch, and an interpreter!
  • Hike the Nakasendo Trail – Escape the city and get out into nature on this guided hiking adventure. Explore the historic Nakasendo Trail and learn about it as you go with your local guide. Transportation is included for extra ease!
  • Go on a street food tour – Each city in Japan is famous for a certain type of food, so discover Nagoya’s on this food tour! This is the best way to find local hidden gems and try dishes you probably would miss exploring on your own.
  • Take a day trip to Ise Bay – For those who love history and scenery, this day trip to Ise Bay is a must! This area is famous for its Shinto shrines and stunning island scenery. It’s sure to be a memorable trip!

Related Read: Need help organizing your trip? See our ideal 3-day Nagoya itinerary for many of these top activities, and more, all planned out for you.

Renting a Car in Japan

Mt Fuji in Japan and road at Lake Kawaguchiko

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

  • Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
  • Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
  • Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
  • Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
  • Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Airalo e-sim

Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL10”

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Bailey and Daniel take a selfie by Mt Fuji in Japan
Thanks for reading!

While Nagoya isn’t as touristy as other major cities in Japan, where you stay can really make a difference! Whether you are looking for convenience or a quiet stay, luxury or budget-friendly, these options will suit all travelers.

Before you go, check out our other Japan travel blogs. We have resources for destinations all over the country and are here to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination. Cheers!

Where to Stay in Yokohama, Japan: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

5 Best Sightseeing Tours in Tokyo: Which One To Book

How to Spend ONE or TWO Days in Nikko: The Best 1- or 2-Day Itinerary

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Japan with confidence.

You may also like...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *