Nagoya Metro Guide 2026: Lines, Stations & Travel Tips

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Heading to Nagoya? The Nagoya Metro is clean, efficient, and perfect for getting around the city from Sakae shopping and Nagoya Castle to Nagoya Station and the airport.

This guide will show you how to use the Nagoya Metro, including lines, key stations, operating hours, ticket options, and handy tips so you can ride like a local while exploring the beauty of Nagoya.

Nagoya Metro Map and Lines

Nagoya Map Lines

Nagoya’s subway network is well-developed, covering the city center and surrounding districts with six lines.

Main Metro Lines :

  • Higashiyama Line (Yellow) – Connects Takabata to Fujigaoka, passing through Sakae and Nagoya Station. Ideal for shopping, sightseeing, and business districts.
  • Meijo Line (Purple) – A circular line linking major hubs like Kanayama, Sakae, and Nagoya Dome. Great for flexible travel around the city.
  • Sakuradori Line (Red) – Runs from Nakamura Koen to Tokushige, connecting Nagoya Station to Fushimi and the airport-bound Meitetsu line.
  • Tsurumai Line (Blue) – Extends from Kami-Otai to Akaike, passing through Nagoya Station and Toyota-related areas.
  • Kamiida Line (Green) – A short line branching from the Meijo Line, mainly serving northern neighborhoods.
  • Higashiyama-Kamiiida Extension – New sections added to improve city access in 2026.
💡 Pro Tip: Most stations have English signage, so navigating is easy even for first-time visitors.

Key Stations of Nagoya Metro

Nagoya Metro Train

Station

Why Stop Here?

Nagoya Station

Main transport hub: Shinkansen, JR, buses, and shopping

Sakae

Heart of downtown, shopping, restaurants, nightlife

Fushimi

Access to Nagoya City Science Museum and Osu shopping district

Kanayama

Transfer hub for JR, Meitetsu, and Kintetsu lines

Nagoya Dome-mae Yada

Near Nagoya Dome and entertainment venues

Hisaya-odori

Close to Nagoya TV Tower and cultural sites

Kamimaezu

Gateway to downtown restaurants and boutique shops

Nagoya Metro Operating Hours

Nagoya Metro Rush

The Nagoya Metro runs daily, with frequent trains but shorter evening hours than major cities:

  • First trains: 5:30–6:00 AM
  • Last trains: 11:30 PM
  • Frequency: Every 3–10 minutes depending on the line and time

💡 Tip: Peak hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) are busy, especially near Nagoya Station and Sakae.

Airport Access via Nagoya Metro

While the subway does not go directly to Chubu Centrair International Airport, connections are easy:

  • Take the Meitetsu Limited Express from Meitetsu Nagoya Station (~30 minutes).
  • Nagoya Station Access: Higashiyama Line or Meijo Line connects directly to Meitetsu Nagoya.

Nagoya Metro Tickets, Passes, and Fares

Nagoya Metro tickets

Nagoya Metro fares are distance-based and affordable:

Ticket Type

Fare (JPY)

Approx. S$

Short trips

210

~S$2.00

Medium trips

250

~S$2.40

Longer trips

330

~S$3.20

Children under 6

Free

Free

IC Cards (Manaca / TOICA):

  • Stored-value cards work on Nagoya Metro, buses, and even some convenience stores.
  • Price: ~¥2,000 initial (includes stored value)
  • Use: Tap at entry and exit; fare deducted automatically
  • Top-up: Ticket machines, convenience stores, or station counters
💡 Pro Tip: For multiple rides, IC cards save time and are more convenient than single tickets.

Top Rated Hotels in Nagoya

5 star

9.5/10Amazing3713 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.43km from downtown
The room was spacious and well-equipped, meeting Marriott's standards. However, the service was quite mediocre, and the breakfast was truly unremarkable. I'd personally recommend booking without breakfast, as there are plenty of convenient dining options nearby. I had breakfast three times, and it was the same every day – limited variety and very average taste. The service was also just okay. I even left my hat behind when checking out, and no one bothered to call and ask about it, which definitely didn't meet my expectations for a five-star hotel.
FromRUB 13,281
9.3/10Great2244 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.19km from downtown
Reliable wellness night. I choose this hotel because i want a good sleep before long transit next day, and it is exactly what i want. Good sleep, room clean, bed is comfy and have space enough for lay my 2 big lugguages. High floor with very Nice city view, good location walk easily to meitetsu station for chubu airport train. The public bath has very good decoration, smooth and relaxing. All staffs are helpful, the reception staff i've met she explain very clear for all amenity of hotel. The hotel location is near the fish market of nagoya, which we found good sashimi restaurant. And just walk only less than 5 minutes you can access to the unimall, underground mall with lots of local store, which for me it is very convenient for last tax free shopping.
FromRUB 8,027
9.2/10Great1645 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|1.9km from downtown
The room is decently sized with a comfortable bed, and the friendly staff and convenient location made our stay great. However, do note that there are no baby amenities (e.g. baby toothbrush, baby shower gel, sponge, etc) provided. Also, for drivers, the parking lot closes at 10 PM, so you’ll need to be back by then. Since we were traveling with a toddler, the early closing time didn't bother us.
FromRUB 12,324
9.2/10Great1538 Reviews
Sakae Nagoya|1.58km from downtown
I was very satisfied with the room arrangement; it was on a high floor, not near the elevator, and had an unobstructed view, which was excellent. The room wasn't large, but the facilities were excellent and seemed to have been renovated in recent years. The executive lounge is on the ground floor lobby, it's quite small and has no windows, but the drinks and snacks were plentiful.
FromRUB 5,738
9.2/10Great1155 Reviews
Nagoya|3.04km from downtown
Staying at the Nagoya Prince Hotel Sky Tower in a twin room was a fantastic experience. The hotel's location is excellent, making transportation incredibly convenient. The room offered expansive views, allowing us to enjoy the city's nightscape. The guest rooms were clean and tidy, with impeccable hygiene. The hotel facilities are comprehensive, and the staff provided polite, attentive, and prompt service. The overall environment was quiet and comfortable, ensuring a good night's rest. It’s perfect for both sightseeing and a short relaxing getaway. Highly recommended; I would definitely choose this hotel again next time I visit Nagoya.
FromRUB 15,315
9.3/10Great443 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|1.87km from downtown
This was my first stay at the Hilton Nagoya. It's about a 1000 yen taxi ride from Nagoya Station, so the location is pretty good. If you're using public transport, there are bus options, but the subway station is a bit of a walk. The room was spacious and well-maintained. I accidentally left something behind, and after emailing them, the hotel successfully sent it to my next hotel, which I really appreciate. A big thank you to Imai from housekeeping! The 'magic hotline' answered immediately, and the overall service was great – definitely good value for money. The only downside is that the soundproofing isn't very good, so if the neighbors are noisy, it can be hard to sleep.
FromRUB 9,782

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Swimming pool

9.2/10Great955 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.06km from downtown
Overall a very pleasant stay. Location is good, we just took buses to go Sakae and Nagoya Station - there is also a 7/11 across and beside is a Mega Donki. The hotel is too pretty, nice colors and adequately sized. Amenities also are provided, and staff were all accommodating. If was a great experience - too bad i didnt have the time to try the public bath. Highly recommended!
FromRUB 5,109
8.8/10Very Good510 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|0.59km from downtown
Our family of four stayed in connecting rooms for 5 nights, and having two queen-sized beds and two bathrooms was quite convenient for Japan. The hotel is about a 5-minute walk from Exit A1, passing a 7-Eleven and a FamilyMart on the way. The hotel offers free breakfast, evening hot springs, complimentary Pola trial amenities, and free coffee and tea in the evenings. This price is incredibly reasonable. We usually walked to Sakae, which was truly very convenient.
FromRUB 3,220
9.4/10Amazing43 Reviews
Nagoya|1.05km from downtown
My stay at ESPACIO Nagoya Castle left a lasting impression, primarily due to the incredibly attentive and professional staff! From the moment we checked in, the service was exceptionally warm and welcoming. As foreign guests, we truly felt at home, thanks to their fluent English and Chinese, along with their thoughtful guidance. The hotel's interior is elegantly decorated, exuding an artistic ambiance. Whether in the lobby, restaurant, hot spring, or when staff were explaining room facilities, everyone always had a smile and readily attended to guests' needs. The hotel is conveniently located right next to Nagoya Castle, offering a peaceful environment, though finding dining options on the street at night can be a bit challenging. The breakfast selection wasn't extensive, but the food quality was remarkably high! I wholeheartedly recommend this hotel for its 100% service and museum-like artistic atmosphere. While it's on the pricier side, it absolutely delivers an unforgettable experience! A huge thank you to all the staff for making our stay so wonderful. We'll definitely be back on our next visit to Nagoya!
FromRUB 84,140
8.3/10Very Good158 Reviews
Sakae Nagoya|1.7km from downtown
I enjoyed staying here for 3 nights. Very friendly staff and budget-friendly hotel for solo-travellers. Around 10 miniute walk to Sakae station. Easy to access the centre of Sakae, can walk to see Mirai Tower and shopping malls. I also enjoyed breakfast and public bath. At the lobby, they also serve self-cafe machine so you can have coffee, newspaper, and extra amenities. The room was very clean. I will stay here again when I visit Nagoya again 😊.
FromRUB 3,947
8.5/10Very Good43 Reviews
Nagoya|10.03km from downtown
It's a 7-8 minute walk from Kasadera Station. The rooms have a tatami-like floor, and you take off your shoes at the entrance. The provided slippers are for use when going to the adjoining public bath. The public bath (Yutopia) is connected by a walkway on the second floor, but it's quite a walk. Alcohol isn't available from the vending machines in the hotel building, so you have to go to the vending machines in Yutopia. There's a drink service in the lounge on the first floor, and alcohol 🍷🍺 was available during the evening happy hour. There's a convenience store a 2-3 minute walk from the hotel. The female staff member at check-in couldn't even say ”Welcome” or ”Please make yourself at home,” so I had to enter my information on the monitor myself to complete the check-in, but my first impression was bad.
FromRUB 5,133
8.6/10Very Good28 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|1.93km from downtown
Last minute booked this hotel with onsen as this accommodation is the nearest to Nagoya station then. But it is still a 12 min walk from Meitetsu Nagoya (where you take the train to airport). Onsen is very small with 4 washing cubicles in the female. Amenities provided within the onsen are also limited eg 1 hair dryer with no seat. But the hot water relaxed the muscles after 1 day walking. I booked a bigger room that is meant for 2 to 4 pax. Comfortable stay, return your unused toothbrush and toothpaste in exchange fo a small treat. Welcome drink until 8pm is a plus point.
FromRUB 4,734

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great1384 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|0.91km from downtown
Asked for a room, got the exact opposite of what I requested. High floor away from lift. So they gave me almost the lowest floor, literally next to the lifts. I booked months in advance, too. The lift itself isn't noisy, but obviously guests are. And sadly these guests were Japanese locals. A family who clearly had zero control over their children. Other problems, the onsen has no cold bath, all three baths are the same temperature, and the reclining bath has no purpose except to allow you to lie down. Plus seeing someone the member of a certain family covered in tattoos is a little frightening for my son. All this despite the signs stating no tattoos. Location is great for metro lines and for the IG Arena, if that's the reason for your visit. I would also appreciate the same manners in English that the staff provide local Japanese. Especially if the staff is already fluent in English. We too have polite ways of speaking to customers.
FromRUB 7,143
8.7/10Very Good1336 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.47km from downtown
The hotel is quite old but clean and provides good facilities. It’s located perfectly right next to the Nagoya station and in the same building as Meitetsu bus station. So it’s convenient to take a bus continuing to Takayama and other cities without any hassles. Many cafes and restaurants are underground and nearby buildings. I would really recommend this hotel for the stay in Nagoya.
FromRUB 5,956
9.2/10Great2197 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.89km from downtown
Arrived in Nagoya late at night, and it started raining as soon as we got to the hotel. We initially went to the wrong hotel next door, which is part of the same group. The staff were very kind, confirmed our reservation, and even walked us over to the correct hotel for check-in, providing us with umbrellas. There's a convenient store downstairs, which was super handy. The next morning, we walked about ten minutes to Meitetsu Nagoya Station to catch a bus to Takayama. I'll definitely be back next time.
FromRUB 6,743
9/10Great1190 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.24km from downtown
The location is fantastic and super easy to find. Just exit Meitetsu Station West Exit, cross one main road, and turn a corner – you'll be there in under five or six minutes. It's incredibly convenient for taking the Meitetsu Line, Meitetsu bus, JR, and Shinkansen. The room cleanliness was impeccable. I opted for the eco-clean option and received four tokens for the vending machine, which I could use to buy drinks. I think this is such a brilliant idea – it lightens the load for the cleaning staff while also benefiting guests. Finally, the service was incredibly warm and friendly, and all the directions and information provided were crystal clear. There was one lady at the front desk who was particularly enthusiastic and had a wonderful attitude; she was always smiling, making for a truly excellent experience. Thumbs up! 👍
FromRUB 3,765
8.9/10Very Good1484 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|0.96km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent, situated between two subway stations, both about a 6-7 minute walk away. It's a direct, two or three stop subway ride from Nagoya Station, and getting to other attractions is also very convenient. The room size is decent, a bit larger than other hotels I've stayed in. A special thanks to Ms. Mishima at the front desk; she was incredibly helpful, assisting me over two days with bus routes to various destinations. Overall, a very pleasant stay.
FromRUB 4,879
9/10Great940 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.84km from downtown
I originally wanted to book a twin room, but here, what they call a 'double room' actually means a single bed for two people, so I didn't pay attention and ended up booking a room with just one bed. Everyone should be aware of this. It was practically a mini-room. The comforter felt damp. The female staff at the front desk had a poker face, but she still got her work done. The male staff I encountered later had a much better attitude. The location was also just okay; it's quite a walk to both Takashimaya and the station.
FromRUB 3,632

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How to Ride Nagoya Metro

How to Ride Nagoya Metro
  1. Plan Your Route: Check station maps or apps; lines are color-coded and well-signed.
  2. Buy Ticket / Use IC Card: Tokens for one-time travel or Manaca card for multiple trips.
  3. Enter the Gate: Tap or insert token.
  4. Find Your Platform: Follow signs showing train direction.
  5. Board the Train: Wait behind the yellow line; let passengers exit first.
  6. Exit at Your Station: Tap or insert token to leave.
💡 Pro Tip: All stations are air-conditioned and some have elevators/escalators for luggage.

Tips to Board Nagoya Metro

Tips Using Nagoya Metro
  1. Plan Your Route in Advance
    Check the station map or a transit app for line colors, transfer points, and direction.

  2. Choose Your Ticket or IC Card
  • Single-journey ticket: Good for one-time rides; buy from ticket machines.
  • IC Card (Manaca / TOICA): Best for repeat trips; tap in and out for automatic fare deduction.
  1. Enter the Station
    Insert your token or tap your IC card at the fare gate. Make sure to hold the card flat and wait for the green light.

  2. Locate the Correct Platform
    Follow the color-coded line signs and English directions.

  3. Board Safely
    Stand behind the yellow safety line. Let passengers exit before you enter the train.

  4. During the Ride
  • Keep belongings secure and be mindful of crowded times (morning/evening rush).
  • Priority seats are for elderly, disabled, pregnant passengers, or those with small children.
  1. Top-Up IC Cards When Needed
  • Use ticket machines, convenience stores, or service counters.
  • IC cards can also be used for buses and some shops for convenience.

💡 Pro Tip: Stay connected during your trip with an eSIM for easy mobile data and navigation without hassle.

Top Nearby Attractions Accessible by Nagoya Metro

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle

One of the most famous landmarks in Nagoya, this historic castle was originally built in the early 17th century during the Tokugawa shogunate. 

Visitors can explore the reconstructed palace, admire traditional architecture, and walk through scenic gardens surrounding the castle grounds.

Highlights:

  • Famous golden Kinshachi (golden tiger-fish roof ornaments)
  • Honmaru Palace with detailed samurai-era interiors
  • Beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots in spring
  • Large park area perfect for relaxing walks

Nagoya City Science Museum

Nagoya City Science Museum

Located in the Fushimi district, this modern museum is one of the largest science museums in Japan. 

It is best known for its massive planetarium and hands-on science exhibits that make learning interactive and fun for visitors of all ages.

Highlights:

  • One of the largest planetariums in the world
  • Interactive exhibits on space, energy, and technology
  • Giant tornado simulation experience
  • Great family-friendly attraction in central Nagoya

Osu Shopping District

Osu Shotengai Shopping Street

Osu is a lively shopping and cultural district known for its mix of traditional temples, street markets, electronics shops, and trendy boutiques. 

The area is also famous for street food and local festivals throughout the year.

Highlights:

  • Hundreds of small shops and street stalls
  • Popular Japanese street foods and snacks
  • Nearby historic temple Osu Kannon
  • Great place for souvenirs and local culture

FAQs About Nagoya Metro

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