The palace is built primarily using Japanese cypress, which adds to the beauty of the building. The fine-grained wood has no knots and is really beautiful. The lightness of the wood is enhanced in natural light, so visit on a sunny day if possible!

One of the newly restored rooms is the Yudono Shoin, which was the shogun's bathing room, similar to a present-day sauna. It is also built primarily with Japanese cypress, which gives off a wonderful aroma. Surrounded by this pleasant scent, you’ll be in for a luxurious time that will warm you right up.

This palace, which has been described as the "the finest example of classic Shoin-zukuri” (architectural style for samurai residences), can be enjoyed right down to the fine details. There are approximately 3,000 kazari-kanagu (decorative metal fittings) in a variety of designs that are used to hide nails. Each one was handmade by artisans and has intricate decorations.

Notice the Ramma (transom) between the ceiling and lintel. The more important the room, the more beautiful the Ramma. In particular, the Jorakuden (Shogun accommodation hall) has beautifully carved 3-dimensional Ramma decorated in bright colors.

Hommaru Palace has been beautifully restored to the way it was 400 years ago. The staff who visited it remained stunned by its magnificence, even after the tour was over. Photography is allowed inside, although flash photography and smartphone photography are prohibited. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the splendor of a historic palace while in Nagoya!

■The Nagoya Castle Hommaru Palace
Address: 1-1 Hommaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
Hours: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm)
　　　*9:00 am - 5:30 pm (last entry at 5:00 pm) between June 8 (Fri), 2018 and August 31 (Fri), 2018
Fees: Free entrance
　　　*Admission to Nagoya Castle required. 500 JPY/adult, etc.
Inquiries: 052-231-1700 (Nagoya Castle General Administration Office)