Under $100: Nagoya, Japan

Japan is thought to be one of the most expensive countries to visit, so making one of its largest cities affordable can be a challenge. That’s doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Nagoya is a wonderful place with great options for those a little financially challenged.

One of the best sites in the city is the Atsuta Shrine. Though not the largest shrine in the country, or even Nagoya, it does house one of the Three Sacred Imperial Treasures. For roughly $3, you can walk the halls and set your eyes on the elusive Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi sword. The Atsuta Shrine is also home to the Jingu Museum and 4,000 historical artifacts, along with the Nijugocho-Bashi Bridge, the oldest stone bridge in Nagoya.

Ema Wishing Plaques at the Atsuta Shrine © Tktktk | Dreamstime

For lunch, stop in the on-site restaurant Atsuta Horaiken, Matsuzakayaten. Here you’ll find some of the best unagi in Japan for less than $20 per person.

Afterward, you’ll want to take a tour of the Nagoya Castle. The castle stands proudly on the Nagoya skyline and was once the home of the 620,000-koku Owari Tokugawa household. It holds exhibits giving insights into ancient Japanese history and hierarchy. Entrance to the castle is roughly $5.

Nagoya Castle, Japan © Chanon Tamtad | Dreamstime

From here, you’ll want to make your way to the Port of Nagoya. It’s a great destination not only because of the various vessels available for exploration but also thanks to the wonderful public aquarium. The aquarium has some of the most expansive displays of sea life in Asia, including killer whales, sea turtles and dolphins with a great exhibit focusing on the South Pole. The entry fee is a little expensive, at just less than $20, but doable.

Finally, for dinner head over to Miya Kishimen for some of the city’s famous noodles. The food here isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s not too expensive either, with meals running from between $15 and $20 per person.