Take a stroll on the "Water Universe Ship" in the sky — 3 stunning free night view spots in Nagoya that will move you to tears!

▲ Head up the famous 14-meter-tall Nagoya landmark, the Water Universe Ship, for an aerial stroll.

Reported and photographed by Lai Wenxuan / Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya, Japan, isn't just known for its distinctive cuisine and the fun of Legoland. It also offers the winter-exclusive, Japan’s largest light sea at Nabana no Sato, where a "tunnel of light" adorned with 1.2 million bulbs creates a dazzling, dreamlike spectacle. But Nagoya has even more to offer — the vibrant, colorful night views of its bustling city center are equally breathtaking. This time, our reporter has handpicked three free night view spots. Come aboard the 14-meter-high Water Universe Ship and enjoy a romantic evening.

Oasis 21 (OASIS 21)

▲ At night, the Water Universe Ship displays a kaleidoscope of colorful lights, which become even more brilliant when reflected on the water's surface.

The 4-meter-high structure allows you to stroll along the elevated walkway and take in a 360-degree view of Nagoya’s night scenery.

Oasis 21 is a multifunctional urban park that also serves as a bus terminal, and it connects directly to the subway. The area around it includes Nagoya TV Tower, major department stores, restaurants, and boutique shops, all situated in Nagoya’s most thriving commercial district. Its most distinctive feature is the large elliptical roof structure known as the "Water Universe Ship." Ascend the 14-meter-high plaza, where a large central pool glistens under the sunlight during the day, offering a serene and relaxing atmosphere.

▲ Oasis 21 functions as a bus terminal and is also connected to the subway, with a shopping mall located underneath.

As night falls, the "Water Universe Ship" is illuminated with flowing lights that occasionally shift colors — blue, red, orange, green — creating a vibrant, colorful display. Walking along the 360-degree pathway, complemented by the elegant Nagoya TV Tower, makes the evening even more romantic and showcases the diverse charm of Nagoya as a metropolis.

Oasis 21 (OASIS 21) Water Universe Ship
Address: 1-11-1 Higashi, Naka-ku, Nagoya City
Access: Connected to Nagoya Municipal Subway "Sakae Station," Exit 4
Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00
Admission: Free

Aichi Arts Center

▲ From the 11th-floor observation deck of the Aichi Arts Center, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Water Universe Ship and Nagoya TV Tower with an exceptional vantage point.

Located right next to Oasis 21, the Aichi Arts Center is the top spot for photographing both Nagoya TV Tower and the Water Universe Ship. During the day, the cultural center houses an arts theater where you can enjoy stage performances, as well as numerous art exhibits and paintings, offering a rich artistic atmosphere.

▲ The Aichi Arts Center, a hub for art and culture, lets you enjoy stage performances during the day, and at night, head to the 1st-floor observation corridor to admire Nagoya’s stunning night view.

The 11th floor of the Aichi Arts Center features an observation corridor. Simply take the elevator to enjoy the night view for free. When night falls, Nagoya Tower and the Water Universe Ship light up, and a visit to the observation deck lets you take in the entire romantic nightscape.

Aichi Arts Center
Address: 1-13-2 Higashi, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Access: A 4-minute walk from Nagoya Municipal Subway "Sakae Station"
Hours: 9:00–22:00 (subject to change under special circumstances)
Closed: Mondays, New Year’s holidays

Nagoya Station

▲ From the elevated observation areas nearby, you can gaze down at the bustling streets around Nagoya Station, especially enchanting in winter.