Nagoya

As Japan’s fourth-largest city, sprawling Nagoya is every bit the modern metropolis. Justifiably proud of its reputation for commerce (the founders of Sony and Toyota were born around here) it’s evolved into a city famed for its automotive connections... there’s even a museum dedicated to all things Toyota.

Must See:
Take a bow and pay homage at the Atsuta Shrine, the second-most venerable Shinto place in Japan. With over 4,000 religious treasures, it’s a place of pilgrimage for 9 million Japanese every year.

Must eat at:
Top class kochin has been on the menu at Torigin Honten (in the Nishiki District) for over 30 years – and it doesn’t disappoint, with perfectly-served portions. For best value, ask for the set menu options.

Must be there for:
For heavyweight entertainment, Nagoya-style, make a date to shout your lungs out at the Nagoya Basho sumo wrestling tournament (Sundays in July) – including the chance to get up close and personal with some of the more junior contenders.

Well-travelled facts:
· Greater Nagoya is an economic powerhouse that earns over 70% of Japan’s trade surplus with the rest of the world.
· Nagoya even has its own rugby team – the Nagoya Barbarians.

Visas:
British citizens travelling to Japan for business or pleasure do not ordinarily need a visa for stays of up to six months. As restrictions apply, for full information, visit http://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/en/visa/visa-uk_irl.html