Been There – Nagoya
Been There Nagoya is a mug for Japan’s fourth-largest city with a history dating back to the Edo period. Originally a small castle town, it gained prominence in the early 17th century when Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, built Nagoya Castle as a strategic stronghold. The city flourished as a political and economic center during the feudal era. In the Meiji period, Nagoya rapidly industrialized, becoming a major manufacturing hub. Despite heavy damage during World War II, the city rebuilt quickly, emerging as a vital industrial and technological center in post-war Japan, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Interestingly enough, this mug is one of the few where designers included the depiction of the Starbucks store. I was able to geolocate this store, and it seems it is the one next to the main entrance of the Osu Shopping District, which is a vibrant and eclectic area known for its mix of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Spanning several city blocks, it features over 1,200 shops and restaurants housed in covered arcades, offering everything from electronics and vintage clothing to local street food and quirky souvenirs. At its heart lies the historic Osu Kannon Temple, a Buddhist temple originally built in the 14th century, which adds a spiritual dimension to this bustling commercial center and hosts regular flea markets in its grounds.
The chickens on the side of the mug are a reference to the Nagoya Cochin, a distinctive chicken breed developed during the Edo period for its superior meat and egg quality. Characterized by its robust body, beautiful plumage, and excellent flavor, this breed has become a culinary icon of Nagoya, featuring prominently in local dishes and serving as a symbol of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
The picture of the car, just below the title, is a reference to Toyota having its headquarters in Toyota City, which is part of the greater Nagoya metropolitan area. This strategic location has transformed Nagoya into a pivotal center for automotive innovation and manufacturing, with the city serving as a hub for Toyota’s extensive network of production facilities, research centers, and suppliers.
We can see Ogura Toast just next to the car. It is a beloved Nagoya breakfast and café delicacy, consisting of thickly sliced, toasted bread topped with a generous layer of sweet red bean paste, known as Ogura-an. Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, this simple yet delightful treat is a testament to the region’s knack for combining traditional Japanese flavors with Western-style breakfast items.
Next, we can see two fish-like critters. These are Shachihoko, mythical creatures from Japanese folklore, depicted with the head of a tiger and the body of a carp, often seen adorning the rooftops of castles and temples. These statues are believed to possess the power to summon rain and protect buildings from fire, symbolizing both strength and protection. The most famous examples of Shachihoko can be found atop Nagoya Castle, where they serve as iconic emblems of the city’s rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship.
The dish on the back of the mug is Miso Katsu, a popular Nagoya specialty featuring a crispy, breaded pork cutlet generously topped with a rich, savory miso-based sauce. This dish is a delicious twist on the traditional Japanese tonkatsu, offering a unique flavor profile that highlights the region’s love for bold and hearty tastes.
