Naka Ward is the bustling retail and entertainment neighborhood of one of Japan’s biggest cities. Discover modern malls, sky-high bars at luxurious tower buildings and sophisticated dining options. Find a majestic castle set among blossoming cherry trees. Visit ancient shrines and superb museum exhibitions.

Standing at the city’s historic heart, Nagoya Castle is a beloved architectural treasure. Completed in 1615, it was meticulously reconstructed to its original grandeur after suffering World War II bombing damage. Stroll between defensive towers and rooms decorated with period clothing, furniture and weapons. The castle faces Meijo Park, where cherry tree blossoms cover lush lawns and paved walkways.

Unbeatable city panoramas await at the observation decks of 590-foot-tall (180-meter) Nagoya TV Tower. It looks down on elegant Hisaya Odori Park, which has landscaped gardens and water features. Browse works by Gustav Klimt and Pablo Picasso at the nearby Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art. Ballets, concerts and operas take place at Aichi Prefectural Art Theater.

The energetic Sakae area is a hub for cultural and entertainment attractions. In leafy Shirakawa Park, Nagoya City Art Museum celebrates Japanese contemporary art. Nagoya City Science Museum is another park attraction with interactive child-friendly exhibits and one of the world’s largest planetariums. Have fun with more science exhibits at the Chubu Electric Power Electricity Museum.

Stylish boutiques, noodle bars and restaurants serving yakiniku grilled meat skewers line Sakae’s streets. Gaze over the rooftops while riding the Sky Boat Ferris Wheel at trendy Sunshine Sakae mall. Sample the nightlife at neon-lit pubs, cocktail lounges and rooftop bars.

Slow things down amid the tranquility of shrines and temples in Osu, including the 14th-century Osu Kannon, the Buddhist Banshoji Temple and the Shinto Miwa Shrine. Tearooms, fast-food joints, jewelers, tailors and trinket shops line the streets of the Osu Shopping District.

Naka Ward is easy to get around via the city’s reliable network of trains and metro. It borders Chikusa Ward to the east and the Nakamura Ward business district to the west.