Top Aichi Prefecture Arts & Design

Explore the refined beauty of Tokugawa-en, one of Nagoya’s most elegant daimyo gardens, on a guided walk through its carefully designed landscape. Originally connected to the Owari Tokugawa family, the garden reflects the taste, status, and cultural sophistication of Japan’s feudal lords. As you stroll past ponds, streams, bridges, waterfalls, wooded paths, and seasonal plants, your guide will introduce the ideas behind traditional Japanese strolling gardens and how nature was shaped to express both beauty and authority. Rather than simply viewing the scenery, you will learn how each element creates movement, perspective, and atmosphere. This peaceful experience offers time for photography, quiet observation, and a deeper appreciation of Tokugawa-en as a living expression of samurai-era aesthetics in Nagoya.

A true petrol head's tour! Buckle up, car lovers! This tour is a dream for anyone obsessed with horsepower and the scent of fresh interiors. After I pick you up at the location of your desire, cruise ship, hotel etc. The first stop will be the Toyota Automobile Museum, a treasure trove of mint-condition classics and modern marvels. Then, we cruise to Toyota City, birthplace of the Toyota family, to explore the Toyota Kaikan, where you can sit in, touch, and admire the latest models (no licking!). And, of course, your guide is a true car maniac—because what’s a car tour without a car-obsessed driver? We finish the tour with a stop at Autobacs, the car part specialty shop, just to nose around or buy a souvenir (macha flavored air-freshener?.) Note This tour is not possible on Mondays as the Automobile museum is closed - Duration: 6-7 hours with a customizable itinerary - Private tour for up to 9 participants - Door-to-door car service in a comfortable Delica D5 or Hiace van

Step into old Japan on a private tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go, two towns rich in tradition and charm. Stroll Takayama’s historic streets, then head to Shirakawa-go to see its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses. Discover folk culture, taste local flavors, and enjoy mountain views on this unforgettable journey. Travel in comfort with a nationally licensed guide who picks you up in a private car from Nagoya—making your journey smooth, safe, and personal from start to finish. Few reviews here yet, but I have many 5-star reviews on other platforms—book with confidence! Highlights: ・Stroll Takayama’s timeless streets, where nature and history blend seamlessly. ・Discover Shirakawa-go’s thatched roofs and tranquil mountain scenery. ・Experience the peaceful village atmosphere, like stepping back in time. ・Trusted as a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Cert. No. EN00703). ・Comfortable travel with a private car and 10+ years professional driving.

Explore Japan’s rich craftsmanship on this full-day tour from Nagoya. Visit Tokoname, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns, and discover the history of traditional pottery. Stroll the Tokoname Pottery Path, where winding pottery lined streets filled with traditional houses, artisan shops, and cafes await. Marvel at the intricate porcelain tiles, step inside a historic kiln, and enjoy the quirky exhibits—including a museum dedicated to toilets! Next, head to Arimatsu, a village renowned for its labor-intensive indigo-dyeing technique, Arimatsu Shibori. Watch skilled artisans create stunning textiles, and shop for one-of-a-kind hand-dyed fabrics. This tour offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and local charm, as you are led by an experienced, English speaking guide on this unforgettable one-day tour from Nagoya.

Highlights -Step inside the Studio of an award-winning teapot craftsman, rarely open to the public -Learn the secrets of brewing smooth, flavorful tea with Tokoname teapots -Savor Japanese tea with traditional wagashi sweets in an intimate setting -Stroll Tokoname’s pottery path with a local guide -Explore galleries, shops, and cafés at your own pace after the tour Tour Overview Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns with over 1,000 years of history, is renowned worldwide for its teapots and living ceramic traditions. On this tour, you’ll step inside the studio of a master craftsman, normally closed to the public, to discover the artistry and function of Tokoname teapots and learn traditional tea brewing with seasonal wagashi sweets. A guided walk along the Pottery Footpath reveals historic kilns, galleries, and walls of clay pipes, offering insight into the town’s heritage. The tour concludes with free time to explore shops, cafés, or enjoy lunch at your own pace.

Discover Tokoname’s most iconic destination, the “Pottery Footpath,” with a guided tour led by a local ceramic artist who grew up in the area and studied abroad. Their unique perspective ensures a seamless and enriching experience. While pottery can be found in many regions, this tour reveals why Tokoname stands out, adding depth to your journey. More than just admiring the scenery, this multilingual tour (available in English, Spanish, and more) offers insights into the history and culture of Tokoname. You'll also have the rare opportunity to interact with local ceramic artists, making your visit truly unforgettable.

Let's walk on the traditional road made of pottery with friendly guide! At first, you can see and take pictures the beautiful view of pottery town. Next you can know the Japanese history, culture and life style through entering into Japanese traditional house. If you become hungry, Let's take the Japanese traditional food & drink which the guide recommends. If you want to make or paint pottery, you can try it. If you don't have time, you can buy some souvenir of hand made pottery for your great memory.

Discover the artistry of Japanese violin-making at the renowned Suzuki Violin Workshop! Take a guided tour through the workshop, where you can admire a handwritten letter from Einstein, a fan of the Suzuki Violin. Learn about the history of this internationally acclaimed company, famous for producing 100,000 violins annually during the Meiji Era. Then, try your hand at varnishing violin parts, turning them into a unique strap to take home as a special souvenir. With an English-speaking guide, this experience blends tradition, craftsmanship, and history, making it an unforgettable visit!

Discover the ancient Japanese art of Incense Ceremony(Kodo) at the historic Tamesaburo Memorial Museum in Nagoya. This beautifully preserved cultural property offers an authentic setting to immerse yourself in one of Japan's most refined traditional arts. During this experience, you’ll not only learn about the 500-year-old tradition of Kodo, once enjoyed by samurai and aristocrats, but also participate in a unique and engaging incense identification game. This game challenges your senses to distinguish the subtle differences between various aromatic woods, deepening your appreciation for their delicate and complex fragrances. Guided by a skilled instructor, you’ll uncover the techniques and spiritual elements of Kodo, which emphasize mindfulness and sensory refinement. The serene traditional space of the Tamesaburo Memorial Museum, surrounded by tranquil Japanese gardens, provides the perfect environment for this meditative and cultural journey.

Seto, a pivotal town in Japan’s ceramic history, invites you to discover its rich tradition of pottery. Begin your adventure at the Seto-gura complex, home to the Seto-gura Museum, where the evolution of Seto ware is unveiled from the Heian period to contemporary designs. Learn about the unique characteristics of Seto ceramics, including their practical applications and innovative glazing techniques. The tour also includes a visit to a local ceramics shop, offering insights into modern usage and design. Experience the blend of tradition and modernity in this vibrant craft town. - Discover the history and evolution of Seto ceramics at the Seto-gura Museum - Explore practical wares that shaped Japanese dining culture - Visit a local ceramics shop for insights on modern designs - Learn about versatile glazing techniques that define Seto ware

This Nagoya food tour lets you experience the city through its signature dishes while discovering local spots you might overlook on your own. It begins at Oasis 21 in Sakae, where your guide shares the history of Nagoya and introduces key symbols like Nagoya Castle, the golden shachihoko, and Atsuta Shrine. After enjoying views from the observation deck, you head to the first tasting. A short walk brings you to a restaurant specializing in miso nikomi udon made with rich red miso. You then sample Moriguchi pickles before visiting the basement of Japan’s oldest department store to try local favorites such as tenmusu, seasonal oni manju, and fragrant shrimp crackers, along with the stories behind them. The highlight is hitsumabushi, Nagoya’s famous grilled eel over rice. The tour ends at a local izakaya with a drink and spicy tebasaki wings. With 7–8 dishes included, it offers a full introduction to Nagoya-meshi.

Indulge in an exclusive culinary odyssey along the Kumano Kodo Iseji route. Savor world-class binchotan-grilled delicacies, rare local ocean treats, and premium citrus tastings, perfectly paired with breathtaking treks and traditional river cruises.

Highlights -Visit a working teapot kiln and learn to brew tea the Tokoname way -Create your own pottery at a historic kiln -Wander the atmospheric Tokonbame Pottery Footpath lined with shops and studios -Experience over 1,000 years of ceramic history in one of Japan’s oldest pottery towns Tour Overview Tokoname on the Chita Peninsula is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns and has produced ceramics for over 1,000 years. Famous for its high-quality teapots, the town blends deep tradition with a vibrant craft culture. This one-day tour takes you into the heart of Tokoname’s pottery heritage. Begin with a visit to a teapot kiln for a hands-on tea brewing experience using Tokoname ware. Then try pottery-making at Kakuzan Tōen, a historic kiln guided by local potter. Conclude with a stroll along the Tokoname Pottery Footpath, lined with galleries, climbing kilns, and charming shops. A curated journey through craftsmanship, tradition, and Tokoname’s warm hospitality.

Discover the beauty and elegance of Japanese culture through a traditional tea ceremony at the Tamesaburo Memorial Museum in Nagoya. This cultural gem, a registered tangible cultural property, offers an authentic setting where visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless art of tea. Guided by experienced tea masters, you'll learn the rituals and philosophy behind the Japanese tea ceremony, a practice that has been cherished for centuries. From the careful preparation of matcha (powdered green tea) to the graceful movements involved in serving and receiving, every aspect of the ceremony reflects harmony, respect, and mindfulness. The museum's tranquil tea room, surrounded by traditional Japanese architecture and gardens, provides the perfect backdrop for this unique experience. Whether you're new to Japanese culture or a seasoned traveler, the tea ceremony at Tamesaburo Memorial Museum promises to be a memorable and enriching journey into the heart of Japan's traditions.

This exclusive, after-hours tour offers a rare private encounter with the storied heritage of the Owari Tokugawa family. Led by an expert curator from the Tokugawa Art Museum, you will explore a magnificent collection that defines the pinnacle of feudal lord culture—from the world-renowned National Treasure "The Tale of Genji Illustrated Scrolls" to exquisite arms, armor, and bridal dowries. With the galleries reserved solely for your presence, the usual bustle is replaced by a profound, elegant silence. To gaze upon legendary swords, masterwork paintings, and delicate crafts in such tranquility is to embark on a timeless journey. This is the ultimate private viewing experience, offering a depth of intimacy with history found nowhere else in the world. (Note: Specific National Treasures may be replaced with other masterpieces depending on the exhibition period.)

Highlights - Explore the Suzuki Violin Workshop, Japan’s pioneering violin manufacturer with over a century of history - Learn directly from master violin makers, discovering the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation behind Suzuki violins - Play and compare different violins, experiencing their unique sound and resonance in a professional setting - Exclusive customization options for buyers, including personalized name engraving and an original label inside the violin Overview Step into the world of Japanese violin craftsmanship with an exclusive visit to the Suzuki Violin Workshop, founded in 1887 by Masakichi Suzuki, a pioneer of Japan’s violin-making industry. Meet master artisans, learn about the making process, and compare the tones of different instruments. Guests who wish to purchase a violin may do so directly from the workshop after the tour. Credit card payment is accepted. *Please inform us at the time of booking if you are considering a purchase.

Highlights -Stroll through Gujo Hachiman, a charming Edo-period castle town surrounded by scenic nature -Watch a live performance of Gujo Odori, a traditional dance with centuries of history -Craft your own ultra-realistic food replica at a local “sampuru” workshop -Discover the beauty of Gujo Hachiman, a town famous for its pure, flowing spring water -Enjoy a personalized experience with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide Tour Overview Step into the living history of Gujo Hachiman, known for its clear waterways and preserved Edo-era streets. Enjoy a guided town stroll and a local lunch such as Hida beef or soba. Visit the Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan Museum to watch a live performance of the traditional Gujo Odori dance. Finish with a hands-on “sampuru” food model–making experience at Sample Village Iwasaki. This day trip from Nagoya offers culture, history, and craft in one memorable journey.

Experience the spiritual Kumano Kodo Iseji route on this exclusive 2-day guided pilgrimage. Trek ancient stone paths, cruise the Kumano River by traditional boat, and discover deep history from Ise to Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine.

Aichi has numerous castles and castle ruins. Among them, Okazaki Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Nagoya Castle are definitely not to be missed! This tour offers you a detailed explanation of the castles with each history from an English-speaking guide. In the castle town, enjoy eating and shopping at cafes in townhouses and stores! You can also enjoy local transportation.

This fun-filled tour is perfect for cat lovers, pottery fans, and anime enthusiasts! Explore Tokoname—the setting of the Netflix anime A Whisker Away—and wander through its maze-like pottery path filled with charm and surprises. With your friendly guide, you’ll discover hidden lucky cats and feel the magic of this historic town come alive. You can also enjoy a Maneki-neko painting experience(optional), which is fun for both adults and children. You can take home the Maneki-neko you painted, creating a special memory of Tokoname.

Tour highlights -Make traditional “washi”, or Japanese paper, with a history of 500 years, acclaimed for its use in sliding shoji doors and Japanese umbrellas -Set in a mountain town using plant-derived materials in its famous, local paper brand -Explanation by curator of Obara’s washi paper culture and production processes -Make your own authentic washi from the first step of pounding paper mulberry material to the finished product -Enjoy local, seasonal bistro at a restaurant in a traditional Japanese folk house -Take home your own Japanese paper booklet made with your own two hands every step of the way Tour details Experience the Toyota Green Life series in Obara, a region famed for traditional washi. Learn how paper mulberry becomes paper as you pound bark, add colors and patterns, and bind your own unique washi booklet. Enjoy lunch in a rustic folk house using seasonal local ingredients. This hands-on tour offers an authentic look into Japan’s traditional papermaking culture.

Atsuta Jingu Shrine: Sanctuary of the Sacred Sword Atsuta Jingu Shrine is one of Japan’s most venerable sanctuaries, enshrining the "Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi"—a legendary sword and one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. Guided by a specialist, you will journey through the essence of Japanese spirituality while breathing in the crisp, sacred air of this ancient forest. The vast grounds, marked by a majestic 1,000-year-old camphor tree, serve as a vital link to the Imperial lineage and the samurai era. Most famously, it is where the great warlord Oda Nobunaga prayed for a miraculous victory before his most historic battle. This tour offers a profound immersion into Shinto tradition, including a visit to the Kusanagi-kan sword museum and an exclusive prayer ceremony at Takakura-musubi-miko Shrine, a site renowned for bringing good fortune and luck in child-rearing.

Get away from the crowds of the city and embrace the beauty of Central Japan as you journey to Shiga Prefecture. This stunning prefecture is blessed with historic castles, pleasant waterways, lush fields, and Japan’s largest lake. A feast for the eyes and the stomach, this captivating region is also home to the oldest brand of wagyu beef in Japan as well as one of the country’s most unique sweet shops. This tour will take you to two castle towns, Hikone—with one of the oldest castles in Japan, and Omi Hachiman—known for its charming canals. Taste Matcha, relax in peaceful gardens, and soak in the scenery as you are led by your experienced, English-speaking guide through this picturesque region of Japan.