Nagoya - Japan's fourth-largest city and an industrial center Map of the Chubu region Nagoya is located at roughly the geographic heart of Japan. Besides being a major urban center and the capital of Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya is also vital to Japan's manufacturing industry. Japan's image as a world leader in manufacturing is, in a large part, due to the industries based in Nagoya and its surrounding area. On the outskirts of Nagoya, for example, is Toyota City, the location of the headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation, famous all over the world as a maker of motor vehicles. In addition, the Nagoya area is studded with any number of other manufacturing businesses. Historically, Nagoya has also been the birthplace of many historic military figures, including shogun. From the latter half of the Muromachi-era (16th century), such historic figures as Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu emerged from the Nagoya area and left their names forever written into Japanese history. These men also left Nagoya with a monument to their prosperity, Nagoya Castle. Built in the Edo-era in the year 1612 by the Owari Tokugawa family, this castle served as their fortress and living quarters at the height of their achievement. The brilliant gold mythical sea creature that adorns the roof of the castle tower has become synonymous with Nagoya itself.

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Takayama Lit-up in winter - Around Nakabashi Bridge and across the Miyagawa River, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture - Mid December, 2008-Early January, 2009 The Nakabashi Bridge and the Miyagawa River, both covered in snow are illuminated at this time of year with the contrasting red bridge and glittering world around creating a most fascinating view. http://www.hida.jp/

Star Light Review 2008 - Around the Garden Dock area of Nagoya Port, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture - November 21st (Fri) - December 25th (Thur), 2008 A 15-meter high tree is illuminated and decorated in Tsudoi-no-hiroba Square at Nagoya Port. About 45,000 lights illuminate the tree in various colors and are synchronized with music. The illuminated JETTY Square, Port Bridge and Italy Village of Nagoya Port also fantastic offer fantastic sights. http://www.port-of-nagoya.jp/topics/portnews/No.87/starlight/ (Japanese version only)

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