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

9.5/10Amazing3733 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.43km from downtown
The hotel's location is superb, directly connected to JR Nagoya Station, so you don't have to worry about getting wet on rainy days. Takashimaya department store is right downstairs, making dining and shopping incredibly convenient. The room was clean and tidy, and the high floor offered fantastic views of the beautiful city night lights. The bedding was comfortable, the service polite and attentive, and the breakfast selection was rich and varied. It was especially hassle-free for catching the Shinkansen, making travel a breeze. I highly recommend it for your trip, and I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Nagoya.
FromPLN 790
9.3/10Great2287 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.19km from downtown
Mitsui Garden Hotel has always been my top choice for accommodation when visiting Japan, and my trip to Nagoya was no exception! As expected, I wasn't disappointed upon arrival! The location is absolutely fantastic, making it convenient to get anywhere. The hotel environment is elegant and clean, and the staff are very friendly. The room size is quite good for a Japanese hotel, and I slept very comfortably. It's really suitable for families with children, and the value for money is excellent. I'll definitely stay here again next time I visit Nagoya! Initially, I found the Wi-Fi wasn't working well. After speaking with the front desk, they immediately provided us with a portable Wi-Fi device, and the signal was great right away – thumbs up! If you have signal issues, I recommend speaking with the front desk.
FromPLN 581
9.2/10Great1676 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.
FromPLN 655
9.2/10Great1551 Reviews
Sakae Nagoya|1.58km from downtown
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from the subway station, or a 1600 yen taxi ride from JR Nagoya. Although the hotel is a bit old, the facilities are very well-maintained. There's a drugstore and three convenience stores right downstairs, which is super convenient. It's also just a 10-15 minute walk to the shopping district, where you'll find Mitsukoshi, Matsuya, Parco, and other major brands all on the same street.
FromPLN 305
9.2/10Great1166 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.
FromPLN 803
9.3/10Great438 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|1.87km from downtown
Firstly, a big thank you to the front desk staff – they were really enthusiastic and had a great attitude. English communication was absolutely no problem. I went to the convenience store to buy bread and fruit but didn't have a knife. The front desk staff went to the restaurant to borrow a dining knife for me to cut the fruit (and it was already midnight!). The room space was very generous, easily accommodating two large suitcases. For Japan, that's quite spacious. Although it's not directly connected to JR, and you might need an umbrella if it rains, the Fushimi station is very close, about a 5-minute walk. The only downside is the poorly designed bathroom, with water splashing out everywhere.
FromPLN 519

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Swimming pool

9.2/10Great963 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.06km from downtown
The room was spacious enough to lay out three suitcases. I always choose Daiwa whenever I visit Japan; it's great value for money. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from a bus stop that goes to Sakae, and about a 10-minute walk to Fushimi subway station (a bit tiring if you're dragging luggage). Nayabashi Bridge is right next to the hotel, and there's a delicious unagi restaurant and a Hida beef BBQ place nearby.
FromPLN 211
8.8/10Very Good534 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.
FromPLN 166
9.5/10Amazing55 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!
FromPLN 4,135
8.4/10Very Good160 Reviews
Sakae Nagoya|1.7km from downtown
My only issue is the room smelled like heavy smoking. I fixed it a bit by leaving the window open when I wasn't in the room. After leaving it open for the couple hours I was out after checking in the smell was tolerable. Excellent hotel.
FromPLN 182
9.3/10Great303 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|1.3km from downtown
As capsule hotels go, it is fairly roomy. Location is excellent, just a few steps away from Oasis 21. Amenities are good, there’s even free lunch dinner and breakfast, albeit a very simple japanese one. The entire building which houses the whole hotel looks clean and well maintained by japanese standards. But in the middle of the night I found myself itching from the chest up. I could think of possible reasons, the circular vent above my head could be blowing dusty air, or the pillow itself is dirty. In my frustration I covered the pillow with the blanket and slept on top of the blanket, and the itching did not reoccur and was able to sleep. So it’s probably the pillow.m
FromPLN 115
8.6/10Very Good44 Reviews
Nagoya|10.03km from downtown
Kasadera Hotel is a perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. The direct connection to the spa is a standout feature, making it incredibly convenient to unwind after a long day. I’ve stayed here a few times, and the experience has always been smooth and enjoyable. A great spot for comfort and relaxation!
FromPLN 251

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Breakfast

9.2/10Great1388 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.
FromPLN 276
8.7/10Very Good1349 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.47km from downtown
It's a bit old, so I can't be too picky about the cleanliness. And after five days of breakfast, I ran out of options. However, the location is incredibly convenient! Especially for visiting Shirakawa-go, Ghibli Park, etc. Basically, it's great for exploring the surrounding areas. I have to say, Nagoya Station is quite confusing; I only started to get my bearings in the last couple of days...
FromPLN 291
9.2/10Great2196 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.89km from downtown
Haha, turns out there are two VIA INN hotels at Nagoya Station! I went to the wrong one at first and couldn't find my booking. The staff kindly directed me to the correct one, and I was able to check in smoothly. I booked two rooms, and they gave us connecting rooms, which was great! The hotel's location is excellent, with many anime/manga stores nearby, like Animate, Suruga-ya, Lashinbang, and K-Books. It's a smooth and enjoyable walk from the station. The hotel is also just a few minutes' walk from the Nagoya Shinkansen, which is super convenient for catching the bullet train. The rooms are typical Japanese style – clean, quiet, and tidy, just what you need. What really surprised me was the breakfast; it was incredibly diverse! All sorts of side dishes, bread, rice, soup, and fruits, all delicious. I especially want to praise the bread; I loved both the toast and the croissants. Next time I'm in Nagoya, I'll definitely choose this place again.
FromPLN 364
9/10Great1202 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.24km from downtown
It’s a ok hotel for a night. While staff are nice, rooms are tiny (I didn’t have the smallest one). I couldn’t get in bed from either side, so I had to jump on it from the bottom. I felt claustrophobic in the room, especially in bed. The bathroom made me almost sick - it’s on an uneven floor and your mind finds it difficult to adjust to this, so whenever I was in it I felt quizzy. The socket to charge the phone is literally on the bed, so if two people are sleeping on the bed, it’s unlikely they’ll be able to use it. Breakfast isn’t a standard hotel breakfast but a donut + hot drink from the donut shop next door.
FromPLN 263
8.9/10Very Good1500 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|0.96km from downtown
Hotel Keihan Nagoya: Located near the Sakae shopping district and Hisaya-odori Park, it's just a short walk from Hisaya-odori Station or Sakae Station. Continuing the Keihan chain's signature simple yet refined style, it offers complimentary freshly ground coffee and extremely comfortable mattresses. Surrounded by department stores and a plethora of dining options, it's a convenient city hotel that boasts both an excellent location and great value for money.
FromPLN 204
9/10Great934 Reviews
Nagoya City Centre Nagoya|2.84km from downtown
The location is excellent. It's just a few minutes' walk from the Nagoya Shinkansen exit. The breakfast spread is fantastic, offering a rich variety with local specialties like small silverfish, along with both Japanese and Western options. The room was very tidy and clean, and the service was also great. You can even check in using a self-service machine.
FromPLN 206

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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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