Since we went there on New Year's Day, almost every commercial establishment with the exception of the restaurants in the train station and some convenience stores around it were closed for the day.  At any rate, here are some images of our visit to my newest favorite Japanese city, Nagoya!

Colorful and beautiful cartoon like statues like this can be seen in train stations all over Japan.  This one was placed right outside a store selling boxed mochi and other treats inside the Nagoya Train Station.

Walking around the Nagoya's train station is a definite treat.  We stumbled upon this restaurant while ambling around the area.  Ain't it purty?  Although a commercial establishment, it looks like a gallery exhibit.

As soon as one leaves the train station, the traveler immediately sees the very chi chi Midland Square which is very similar to Tokyo's Roppongi Hills and Midtown.  Full of upscale shopping.

Nagoya Castle, Nagoya's main tourist attraction

Given that we visited the City of Nagoya on New Year's Day, the castle was closed to the public. Its location in the city as well as the structure itself is quite imposing.  This picture was taken from the Marriott Hotel in downtown Nagoya close to the train station.  From its topmost floor covered with floor to ceiling windows, visitors get a view of the city with the famous Nagoya Castle in the background.