Nagoya Port is Japan’s largest trading port, serving as a major hub for global exports, including locally manufactured products such as Toyota vehicles. As with many port cities around the world, part of the port has been transformed into a recreational and entertainment district known as Garden Pier.
Garden Pier is home to a variety of attractions, including a small amusement park, an aquarium, a shopping mall, an Antarctic exploration museum, a maritime museum, and a waterfront park.
One of the highlights is the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, regarded as one of Japan’s top aquariums. It is particularly well known for its dolphin and killer whale exhibits, as well as its large-scale marine life displays.
Beside the aquarium sits the Fuji icebreaker ship, which played a significant role in Japan’s Antarctic exploration efforts. The Fuji has since been converted into a floating museum, showcasing the history and challenges of Antarctic exploration.
In front of the Fuji, visitors will find the Nagoya Maritime Museum, located inside the port administration building. This museum offers exhibits on Nagoya’s maritime history, shipbuilding, and the importance of the port in global trade.
On the opposite side of the pier from the aquarium, visitors can explore the Italian Village shopping centre, a charming Venetian-inspired attraction. Designed to resemble Venice, it features replica canals, gondolas, and even a reproduction of the famous Campanile from St. Mark’s Square.
Garden Pier is also easily recognisable from the air, particularly when approaching Nagoya Airport, thanks to its Ferris wheel, which towers above the surrounding area.
Access:
To reach Garden Pier, take the Meijō Subway Line south from Kanayama Station to Nagoyakō Station. Kanayama Station is just one stop from Nagoya Station on both the Nagoya Line and Tōkaidō Line, making the journey quick and convenient.
Aquarium Website
https://nagoyaaqua.jp/english/
