Top Aichi Prefecture Arts & Design

Take part in a shibori tie-dye workshop in Arimatsu and learn all about this ancient Japanese art from a local guide. The experience starts with a walking tour around the old city, so you can admire its original Edo-era buildings, shop for souvenir shibori art, and visit the Tie-Dyeing Museum. Afterward, you'll head to your workshop to create your very own shibori tie-dye masterpiece. Choose from two options when you book online.

Discover Japan’s culture of ‘monozukuri' (craftsmanship) on this private half-day tour of Nagoya. Visit two renowned companies, the car manufacturer Toyota, and Noritake—a tableware and technology company. Hear how Central Japan became a key region for advanced manufacturing as you watch live demonstrations, hear informative commentary, and check out exhibitions on a tour that includes admission ticket and private guide.

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.

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.

Departing from Nagoya, this one-day guided tour takes you to Tokoname, a historic pottery town, using trains and local city buses for the round trip from Nagoya. Stroll along the scenic pottery path, see hundreds of lucky cat statues, and enjoy the charm of traditional ceramic culture.

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.

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 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!

Step into Japan’s samurai past on a hands-on, small-group journey to Inuyama, home to one of the country’s oldest original castles, where history comes alive through sword practice, tea rituals, and local street food. This immersive day blends cultural depth, interactive experiences, and hidden-town charm just minutes from Nagoya, offering a side of Japan most travelers miss.

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.

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.

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 tour offers a full-day journey from Nagoya to Inuyama, combining history, culture, and local flavors. Explore Japan’s oldest castle, stroll charming streets, taste unique local delicacies, and enjoy hands-on traditional crafts like lantern painting—an immersive experience capturing the town’s heritage and charm.

Departing from Nagoya Station, take the train to Tajimi Station. Upon arrival, a bus will take you to the Mosaic Tile Museum, where you can enjoy the unique architecture and learn about the history of Tajimi’s tiles. Next, visit Honmachi Oribe Street, home to several tableware shops. Explore stores housed in over 100-year-old Japanese buildings and take your time finding your favorite pieces while enjoying the traditional atmosphere. Unlike other tourist spots, this area is calm and relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the day at your own pace. You’ll find everything from everyday tableware to high-end pieces rarely seen elsewhere in Japan—perfect for discovering a special item. While Tokoname is another pottery town accessible on a day trip from Nagoya, it’s interesting to compare the experience with the tour “Tokoname Pottery Village Day Trip from Nagoya.” The tour concludes with a train ride back to Nagoya Station.

Kakuozan, located in Nagoya, is an area rich in culture and history, making it an excellent place for international visitors to experience authentic Japanese culture. This tour is designed around authentic experiences in Nagoya, including a Kodo (incense Ceremony) experience with genuine incense, not replicas, and visits to the Furukawa Art Museum, distinguished traditional villa architecture like Yokiso, and historical temples like Nittaiji and Sououji. The tour also includes a guided stroll through the Kakuozan shopping district in English.

Kakuozan, an area ofNagoya rich in culture and history, is a great place for international visitors to experience authentic Japanese culture. This tour is designed around an authentic Nagoya experience, including a tea ceremony experience using actual tea utensils used by Furukawa Tamesaburo (not replicas), traditional villa architecture and gardens, and visits to historic temples such as Nittai-ji and Sooji. The tour also includes an English guided stroll through the Kakuozan shopping arcade.

Tour highlights -Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch featuring fresh wild boar and venison -Create your own original necklace using deer antler pieces with a local artist -Learn about sustainable living and how local communities make use of natural resources -Spend a day immersed in nature while discovering Toyota City’s mountain culture and traditions -Explore the rich natural environment of the Asuke area with knowledgeable local staff Tour details Experience Toyota Green Life through hands-on activities that showcase the region’s sustainable lifestyle and deep connection to nature. Enjoy a flavorful BBQ lunch featuring wild boar and venison sourced from the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, craft a unique deer-antler pendant using materials that are typically discarded. Engage all five senses as you learn about local culture, support community businesses, and appreciate the abundant gifts of nature in the mountains of Toyota City.

Combining mythology, history, and traditional craftsmanship, this tour offers a deeper look at Japan's spiritual and artistic traditions that have shaped Japan for centuries in a 1-day tour from Nagoya. In the morning, you'll visit Atsuta Jingu, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines. You'll explore its peaceful forest grounds and learn about the legends and history of the sacred sword housed on the shrine's grounds that has made this sacred site a place of worship for nearly 2,000 years. In the afternoon, visit the historic post town of Arimatsu, renowned for its 400-year-old tradition of Arimatsu Shibori. Stroll its preserved Edo-period streets and take part in a hands-on workshop, creating your own shibori-dyed souvenir with guidance from a local artisan. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to discover the mythology, history, and traditional craftsmanship of Japan in an unforgettable day from Nagoya led by a professional guide.

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

Highlights - Meet three renowned Tokoname bonsai pot artisans inside their working studios. - Discover distinctive techniques, glazes, and artistic philosophies behind exceptional bonsai containers. - Walk the historic Pottery Footpath through kilns, brick chimneys, and pottery-lined streets. - Admire a beautiful bonsai garden where trees and handcrafted pots exist in perfect harmony. - Travel comfortably from Nagoya with a professional English-speaking guide by train and taxi. Overview Discover Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, with a ceramic tradition spanning over 1,000 years. Visit three pottery studios and meet Tokoname bonsai pot artisans. At their workshops, learn how techniques, forms, and glazes complement each bonsai tree. At Ikko Pottery Studio, explore a bonsai garden with handcrafted pots and living trees. Along the way, discover Tokoname’s Pottery Footpath. With transportation from Nagoya and expert interpretation, discover this unique ceramic tradition.

Highlights - Discover two of Tokoname’s most celebrated pottery traditions: teapots and bonsai pots. - Meet skilled artisans and hear firsthand about their techniques, traditions, and craftsmanship. - See how specialized artisans balance efficient production with exceptional teapot craftsmanship. - Admire distinctive bonsai pots celebrated for their richly expressive Oribe glaze. - Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Footpath among kilns, brick chimneys, and ceramic-lined lanes. Overview Discover Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, with over 1,000 years of ceramic history, traditional teapots and bonsai pots, and local artisans. Stroll the Pottery Footpath, where historic kilns and workshops showcase Tokoname’s ceramic heritage. At Gyokko Toen, meet third-generation Traditional Craftsman Yukitaka Umehara and explore teapot techniques. At Koyo Toen, see fourth-generation artisan Juko’s bonsai pots finished with Oribe glaze. Working studios reveal Tokoname’s ceramic tradition.