Nagoya is a major city located in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan, situated on the Pacific coast of Honshu, the largest island of Japan.

Quick Facts

Land Area377,930 km², about the size of Germany or the state of Montana
Highest PointMount Hōei, 3,190 meters
Lowest PointHachirōgata, -4 meters
Coastline29,751 km, bordering the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, and the East China Sea
BordersChina, North Korea, South Korea, Russia, and Taiwan by sea, no land borders as it is a city within Japan
Climate Typetemperate

Location & Borders

Nagoya is situated in the central part of Honshu, approximately 340 kilometers west of Tokyo. The city is bordered by the Mikawa Bay to the east and the Nobi Plain to the west. Nagoya is also surrounded by several mountains, including the Japanese Alps to the north and the Ise Bay to the south. As a city within Japan, Nagoya does not have international borders, but it is an important port city with connections to several countries in East Asia.

The location of Nagoya makes it an important hub for trade and commerce in Japan. The city is connected to several major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, by high-speed rail and highway networks. The Port of Nagoya is one of the busiest ports in Japan, handling a significant volume of international trade. The city's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its location on the eastern coast of Asia make it an important center for international trade and commerce.

Terrain & Landscape

The terrain of Nagoya is varied, with mountains, plains, and coastlines. The city is situated on the Nobi Plain, a flat and fertile area that is home to many agricultural communities. The plain is surrounded by several mountains, including the Japanese Alps to the north and the Kiso Mountains to the east. The highest point in the area is Mount Hōei, which is located in the Japanese Alps and has an elevation of 3,190 meters.

The landscape of Nagoya is also characterized by several rivers, including the Kiso River, the Nagara River, and the Ibi River. These rivers flow through the city and provide water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use. The coastlines of Nagoya are also an important feature of the city's landscape, with several bays and inlets providing access to the Pacific Ocean. The city's coastline is approximately 29,751 kilometers long, making it one of the longest coastlines in Japan.

The city's terrain and landscape have played an important role in shaping its history and culture. The fertile plains and surrounding mountains have made Nagoya an important center for agriculture and trade, while the city's coastline has made it a major hub for international commerce. The city's varied terrain and landscape have also made it a popular destination for tourists, with many visitors drawn to its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Climate By Season

SeasonMonthsTemperature RangeRainfallConditions
SpringMarch to May10-20°C100-150 mmMild, sunny
SummerJune to August25-35°C150-200 mmHot, humid
AutumnSeptember to November10-20°C100-150 mmCool, sunny
WinterDecember to February0-10°C50-100 mmCold, snowy

Best Time To Visit

Best months: March to May and September to November. Why: These periods offer mild and sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Avoid: June to August, as the summer months can be hot and humid, and December to February, as the winter months can be cold and snowy.

Natural Highlights

  • Hida Mountains: a mountain range located to the north of Nagoya, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Nobi Plain: a flat and fertile area that is home to many agricultural communities and is an important center for agriculture and trade.
  • Kiso River: a river that flows through the city and provides water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use.
  • Ise Bay: a bay located to the south of Nagoya, known for its natural beauty and marine life.
  • Minami-Alps National Park: a national park located to the west of Nagoya, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Yoro Valley: a scenic valley located to the east of Nagoya, known for its natural beauty and historic significance.