The Yoshinao Zone: Home of Nagoya's flavors

The Yoshinao Zone is located to the east of Nagoya Castle's Main Gate and constructed on the concept of tradition and orthodoxy. Feast on the go-to Nagoya Meshi, or Nagoya Cuisine, items like udon noodles in miso stew, hitsumabushi eel cuisine, Nagoya Cochin chicken, and deep-fried pork cutlet with miso sauce all in one spot. Local rice wines and shrimp-flavored rice crackers are also available to purchase for the perfect souvenir while Japanese confections beloved by the lords of former Owari Province—where Nagoya now lies—are available to snack on at tea shops while you take a rest.

The Muneharu Zone: A breath of new life into Nagoya's culinary culture

Also at the Main Gate's eastern area is the Muneharu Zone. This zone disseminates the delicious dining available thanks to Nagoya's modern cuisine. The Nagoya Meshi of today, such as ankake spaghetti—pasta with a gooey, sweet sauce—is available as well as unique skewered items, organic vegetables at zazzy cafes, and Japanese cuisine inspired by none other than hamburgers, as well as other new contenders to Nagoya's cuisine. Sweets too are available to sweeten the deal. Many of the eateries are open into the night, perfect for when you're in the barhopping mood.

Check out our column highlighting the allure of Kinshachi Yokocho

Having a ball at Kinshachi Yokocho: All the Nagoya cuisine, photogenic sweets, and souvenirs you could want!