This is good for kids, with lots of hands-on displays, but if you don't speak Japanese or can't read Japanese characters, it is a little difficult to work out what it's all about. On the plus side, however, it is about the only place open before 10am and admission is only ¥600.

Downtown Nagoya

This is a bustling city of contrasting cultures. Among Japanese Izakayas restaurants, you will find Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Hard Rock Cafes. Not as neon-filled as Tokyo, Nagoya is a pleasant introduction to the Japanese culture.

There is a myriad of specialty and department stores to choose from, but none of them look cheap!

The Nagoya TV Tower, built in 1954, was the first TV tower built in Japan, and at 180m high, dominates the city skyline. It has an observation balcony 100m above ground, where visitors can enjoy the spectacular view while enjoying a light meal or doing some shopping. It costs ¥750 for adults and is open 7 days a week from 10am to 9pm.

Osu Shopping Arcade

Is a colourful collection of shops selling everything from computers to traditional Japanese china.

Located just outside Osukannon Station, exit no. 2 on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the shopping arcade begins at Osukannon Temple and runs through to Banshoji Temple (one of Nagoya's oldest. Once called Kigakusan, it was built in 1538 by Oda Nobuhide, father of the famous Nobunaga).

Walking through this arcade is a sensory overload; from the rich tapestry of colourful shops, to the aromas of the numerous food outlets, and to the sounds of Japanese music, the Osu arcade will give you a real feel for the Japanese way of life.

If you’re here to shop, then there are plenty of choices: shoes, china, computers, games, bags, etc.; the list is extensive. Be advised, though, that not many of the shops, particularly the traditional types, accepted credit cards.

The day we were there, the Osukannon Temple Antique Market was in session between the Osukannon temple and the arcade. It is held on the 18th and 28th of every month. It seems to be a blend of new and second-hand goods.

If you're looking for an authentic memento of your visit to Japan, you're bound to find something here. It wasn't cheap, so knowing the phrases ikura des ka (how much is it?) and takasugimas (that's too expensive) came in very handy here.

The Osukannon Temple is definitely worth having a look at before you go into the arcade. A seemingly endless procession of Japanese file into the temple, make their offering, bow, and leave. I wasn't sure if photos were allowed, so I erred on the side of caution and didn't take any of the interior.

For more pictures and information on this location, visit my website www.shanecurrie.id.au