Dear Time-Traveling Companion,
Have you ever found yourself in a place so steeped in history that it felt like you were stepping through time?
Just yesterday, I wandered through the serene forests encircled by the magnificent stone walls of Nagoya Castle and was suddenly enveloped in an enchanting illusion. It was as if whispers from samurais of bygone eras were being carried on the breeze. Before me unfolded a scene where the past and future intertwined, creating a spectacle reminiscent of a journey through time.
“Is a new castle being erected here?” I wondered, as the scene before me blurred the lines between past and future. The steep concrete foundations emerging beside this historic fortress hinted at the construction of a structure grand enough to rival the castle itself.
From this crossroad of history and future, let’s venture to our next destination, a true turning point of an era. We’re heading to “Nagoya Castle” – the site of a new hotel touted as the most prestigious in Nagoya. A “new castle” is indeed taking shape here, a testament to how the past and future can coalesce. Come along, let’s explore this together!
In my youthful days, the old Nagoya Castle Hotel held a special allure, its fame largely owed to the exquisitely simmered beef curry. Enjoying this dish not by looking up to Nagoya Castle but beside it felt like an experience transcending mere dining. To dine as if seated next to a lord from the samurai era was an unimaginable luxury. The hotel’s retort-packed curry was also renowned, making it a cherished indulgence and a fond memory as a souvenir.
With these cherished memories of yesteryears, we now turn our gaze to a new chapter woven by time. In 2020, the closure of the old hotel made way for the new Nagoya Castle Hotel. This new construction addresses the long-standing gap in luxury accommodations in Nagoya and also aims to serve as a new landmark that reflects the rich history and culture of the area. The anticipation of viewing Nagoya Castle from this modern counterpart is truly thrilling. And of course, the hope for the revival of that legendary curry lingers.
The new hotel is distinguished by its innovative design that harmonizes with Nagoya Castle, offering sweeping views from its top-floor rooms. Alongside the rejuvenation of the picturesque Horikawa River, there’s a vision to enchant VIPs from around the globe with a historical promenade.
Even as progress marches on, the construction site is a testament to reverence for the past. An old-style signboard and a Jizo statue, lovingly tended by a local grandmother, remain untouched, showcasing Japan’s enduring respect for tradition and history.
The thoughtful preservation at the construction site of the new hotel underscores a profound respect for Japan’s heritage and community spirit. These thoughtful gestures promise to transform this site into more than just a place to stay; it will be a living, breathing space where culture and history thrive.
Now, have you caught a glimpse of what will become a new landmark in Nagoya, the Nagoya Castle Hotel? Once it’s complete, I can’t wait to embark on new historical adventures with you.
And after our journey through history, a delightful break awaits us!
We made our way to the Yoshinao Zone, right in front of Nagoya Castle’s main gate. It’s a charming spot where locals and visitors alike are treated to an array of dishes and sweets made from local ingredients, embodying the unique flavors of Nagoya.
And for our snack? “Dorayaki”! This isn’t just any dorayaki.
Imagine soft, fluffy pancakes with just the right amount of sweet red bean filling, made with special eggs from Nagoya, offering flavors and textures you won’t find anywhere else.
Choosing this dorayaki was all about sharing with you the essence of Nagoya’s culinary culture. Known for its vibrant coffee scene, pairing this dorayaki with a cup of coffee promises a moment of bliss.
From the subtle sweetness of the special eggs to the moist and tender texture of the pancakes, every bite of this dorayaki brings a burst of happiness. Next time, let’s savor this Nagoya delicacy together.
I hope you’ll come to discover the warm hospitality of Nagoya and the enchanting stories it weaves between the old and new. Why not join me on this time-traveling journey that Nagoya has to offer?
Warmest regards,
Koki@SamuraiWanderer
