Kakuozan Nagoya
Kakuozan, Nagoya: A charming district blending serene temples with trendy cafes and culinary delights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Kakuozan Nagoya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kakuozan, Nagoya: A charming district blending serene temples with trendy cafes and culinary delights.
"Kakuozan offers a unique blend of tranquility and trendiness, perfect for a relaxed exploration."
Check opening hours first! :iphone:
Many cafes and shops have unique hours; check their social media before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Temple fortune slips :moneybag:
Try the unique capsule toy machine for a fun and different way to get your fortune at Nittai-ji Temple.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nittai-ji Temple
Chikusa-ku
A grand temple with Thai Buddhist influences, featuring a pagoda and a unique fortune-telling capsule toy.
Kakuozan's Cafe Scene
Various locations
Explore charming streets filled with trendy cafes, bakeries, and unique shops offering delightful treats.
Valencia Paella
Kakuozan Spring Festival (seasonal)
Experience a massive paella preparation during local festivals, a culinary spectacle not to be missed.
Chocolaterie Takasu
Kakuozan
Indulge in exquisite chocolates and pastries at this popular confectionary shop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Kakuozan
Culinary Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check opening hours first! :iphone:
Many cafes and shops have unique hours; check their social media before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Temple fortune slips :moneybag:
Try the unique capsule toy machine for a fun and different way to get your fortune at Nittai-ji Temple.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the charming streets and temple grounds.
Taste the local specialties :ramen:
Don't miss out on the highly-rated ramen, burgers, and unique desserts in the area.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check opening hours first! :iphone:
Many cafes and shops have unique hours; check their social media before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Temple fortune slips :moneybag:
Try the unique capsule toy machine for a fun and different way to get your fortune at Nittai-ji Temple.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the charming streets and temple grounds.
Taste the local specialties :ramen:
Don't miss out on the highly-rated ramen, burgers, and unique desserts in the area.
Plan for parking :car:
Nittai-ji Temple offers free parking, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kakuozan is praised for its charming streets, unique cafes, and the serene Nittai-ji Temple with its Thai Buddhist influences. Visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the culinary delights, from ramen to pastries. Some find the quirky opening hours of establishments a minor inconvenience.
"Nittaiji, located in the Kakuōzan district of Nagoya, was founded in 1904 to enshrine a relic (the ashes) of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) that had been discovered in northern India in 1898.  These relics were donated to the Kingdom of Thailand and in 1900 offered to Japan by Chulalongkorn (King Rama V of Thailand). 
In gratitude and symbolising Japan–Thailand friendship, the temple was created as a non-sectarian Buddhist institution (a rare format in Japan) and named combining the characters for “Japan” (日) and “Thailand” (泰)."
Henry Harrison
"The temple ground is quite big, though there are only a few temple buildings. Compared to the Kōshō-ji temple, this Kakuo-zan Nittai-ji temple is grander and polished, it is more curated (and manicured, if I may). I personally like the Kōshō-ji temple as it is more intimate.
The one cool thing about this temple is that if you want to get a fortune slip, there's a capsule toy machine where you can put 100 yen inside to do so, which is quite an unique experience."
Roy Yi Ling Ngerng
"The Temple is unique in East Asian nations, especially in Japan, because the Temple was built with significant inputs and efforts of the Thai or Southern Buddhist sects and Thai government. The difference of the Temple from other Japanese temples can be easily seen in its pagoda top, worship hall, and putti trees in front of the worship halls.
The Temple has large parking lot for the worshippers and visitors. The access for the Temple is free and parking is also free."
Ben Hsu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kakuozan is easily accessible by subway. Take the Higashiyama Line to Kakuozan Station. Many attractions, including Nittai-ji Temple and various cafes, are within walking distance from the station. 
Yes, the main streets are quite walkable, and the area has a charming, neighborhood feel. Signs are generally in Japanese, but many popular spots are well-known.
Driving is possible, and Nittai-ji Temple offers free parking. However, street parking can be limited in the more commercial areas.
Kakuozan Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Higashiyama Line is the primary access point.
Absolutely! Kakuozan is a perfect destination for a relaxed day trip, offering a different pace from the bustling city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the grounds of Nittai-ji Temple is free. There may be fees for specific events or concerts held there.
Generally, there are no entrance fees for cafes or shops. You pay for what you order or purchase. Some unique experiences or events might have separate charges.
Temple hours are typically from morning to late afternoon. Cafes and shops vary greatly; many close by early evening. It's best to check individual business hours online.
Yes, Nittai-ji Temple offers a unique experience where you can get fortune slips from a capsule toy machine for a small fee.
Kakuozan hosts various events, including spring festivals with food stalls like paella, and seasonal concerts. Keep an eye on local event listings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kakuozan is famous for its delicious ramen, hearty burgers, and unique cafes. Don't miss out on specialties like Valencia paella during festivals.
While many places focus on meat dishes like burgers and ramen, you can often find vegetable-based options or lighter fare at cafes. It's advisable to inquire directly.
Kakuozan has a thriving cafe scene with spots like Chocolaterie Takasu for sweets and various other independent cafes offering coffee and light meals.
Some ramen and izakaya-style places might be open later, but many cafes and restaurants tend to close by early evening. Check specific establishments for their hours.
Yes, Chocolaterie Takasu is a highly recommended spot for exquisite chocolates and pastries.
📸 📸 Photography
The pagoda at Nittai-ji Temple is a prominent feature, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. The charming streets lined with cafes and shops also offer great photo opportunities.
Kakuozan is generally less crowded than major tourist hubs, especially on weekdays, allowing for more relaxed photography.
Morning light can be lovely for the temple grounds, while late afternoon offers a warm glow for the streets and cafes.
Generally, photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid intrusive shots, especially during prayer times.
Most cafes are welcoming to photos of their food and ambiance, but it's polite to ask if you plan to take extensive shots or photos of other patrons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less busy times to ensure a more comfortable experience for everyone.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy a quiet coffee, or delve into local history without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. 🍜 Foodies
Don't miss out on unique sweets from places like Chocolaterie Takasu. Be sure to check the operating hours of your desired eateries, as many have unique schedules. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Nittai-ji Temple
A particularly unique feature is the fortune-telling experience. Instead of traditional slips, visitors can use a capsule toy machine, inserting 100 yen to receive their fortune. This playful approach adds a modern twist to a traditional practice. The temple also boasts a large, free parking lot, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Access is free, and the temple is a notable landmark, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season.
While the temple grounds are large, the number of distinct temple buildings is fewer compared to some other temples. However, its distinct cultural heritage and the serene environment make it a worthwhile visit for those interested in unique Buddhist sites and a peaceful ambiance.
Kakuozan's Culinary Scene
+1For a more substantial meal, Kakuozan offers excellent burger and ramen options. Boost Burger is frequently mentioned for its delicious burgers, and several ramen shops are highly recommended for their flavorful broths and toppings.
Many of these establishments have a local, intimate feel, with some having limited seating and quirky operating hours, so it's always a good idea to check their social media or websites before visiting. Beyond the everyday offerings, Kakuozan also comes alive during local festivals, such as the Spring Festival, where large-scale culinary events like Valencia paella preparation take place. These events offer a chance to experience the community spirit and enjoy unique, large-format dishes.
The area's food scene is a significant draw, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring Nagoya.The Charm of Kakuozan Streets
This unique blend makes it a delightful place to wander, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local ambiance. These streets are lined with a variety of independent shops, boutiques, and, most notably, a thriving cafe culture. Visitors often highlight the relaxed and less crowded nature of Kakuozan compared to more central Nagoya attractions, allowing for a more intimate exploration.
The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with opportunities to stop for coffee, browse unique goods, and enjoy the laid-back vibe. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit