Top Aichi Prefecture Car Tours in 2026

Discover Japanese fermentation in and around Nagoya, Aichi, a region celebrated for its rich brewing traditions. Explore five fermentation cultures, from mirin, miso, and tamari to vinegar and sake, and learn how time, ingredients, and craftsmanship shape Japanese flavors. Visit a century-old mirin brewery and a historic miso and tamari producer, where traditional methods and enormous cedar barrels preserve generations of knowledge. At the MIZKAN MUSEUM, discover how vinegar made from sake lees contributed to the rise of Edomae sushi. Enjoy Chita beef steak and local wine at a seaside hillside winery, then visit a sake brewery founded in 1848. Taste sake from Tokoname pottery vessels and discover how ceramics influence aroma and flavor. Back in Nagoya, explore Moriguchizuke, a local pickle matured in sake lees, and try its final pickling process yourself. For a special finale, add an optional dinner at PHYEON, where Aichi's fermentation heritage inspires contemporary fine dining.

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.

Experience the craftsmanship of traditional Japanese umbrellas and samurai swords in Gifu, including a stay at Nagaragawa Onsen and a visit to a cormorant fishing museum. Ukai Cormorant fishing, a traditional fishing method using cormorants, is unique to certain regions in Japan and might not be widely recognized internationally.

Discover the best that Nagoya has to offer on a private tour through the city. Visit key landmarks such as the Nagoya Castle, the Noritake Garden, the Toyota Commemorative Museum, and the Atsuta Shrine. Learn about the background of each location and why they are important to Japanese culture from your tour guide.

Discover the charm of Takayama and the heritage village of Shirakawa-go on this full-day tour from Nagoya! Start your journey in Takayama’s Old Town, a beautifully preserved area showcasing Edo-period architecture, traditional shops, sake breweries, and fascinating museums. Stroll along quaint streets and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and local crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor premium Hida Beef, renowned for its tender texture and exceptional flavor, during a delicious lunch. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its unique gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs built to withstand heavy snow. Explore traditional farmhouses, visit Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, and capture panoramic views from Shiroyama Viewpoint, enjoying the serene landscapes and cultural heritage of this charming mountain village.

Discover Sacred Ise in Comfort From Nagoya, a 10-hour private charter to Mie's sacred sites. Seamless private travel, no public transport. Suggested Itinerary: Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku): Japan's most revered Shinto shrine. Dedicated to Sun Goddess. Serene ancient cypress trees. Okage Yokocho: Outside Naiku. Charming Edo street, ideal for lunch. Try "Ise Udon," "Akafuku," and crafts. Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks): Futami Okitama Shrine by sea. "Wedded Rocks" symbolize happy marriage. Famous for lucky frog statues. Ise Grand Shrine (Geku) Optional: Visit Outer Shrine, completing pilgrimage. Please note that this itinerary serves as a guideline. The schedule is flexible and can be adjusted on the day according to traffic conditions. Why Choose This Private Tour? Comfort for Groups: Spacious 7-seater (Alphard) or 10-seater (HiAce) vans. Ideal for families bor seniors; relaxing 2-hour drive. Hassle-Free: We handle driving, parking, tolls. Focus on your experience.

Experience rural Japan as you explore the Shirakawa-go and Takayama regions on this full-day tour from Nagoya. With a private guide, discover the Japanese villages known for their traditional farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Learn about the architectural style that has developed over the years and is made to withstand challenging weather conditions. Then, head to the mountainous Takayama region to explore its old town.

Highlights Explore Chita's finest producers alongside award-winning Chef Watanabe. Meet local growers and discover the stories behind exceptional seasonal ingredients. Experience Japan's rich farm-to-table culture through exclusive producer visits. Enjoy an exclusive tasting menu at Le Coeuryuzu, paired with carefully selected local sake. Discover why the Chita Peninsula is one of Japan's most celebrated culinary regions. Overview Discover Chita’s rich food culture on an exclusive farm-to-table tour with Chef Watanabe, Le Coeuryuzu's owner-chef and a recipient of Japan’s prestigious Ryori Masters award. Visit seasonal producers, such as farms, vegetable growers, or local markets, and hear about their products and traditions. Learn how the chef selects ingredients and builds relationships with producers. Return to Le Coeuryuzu for a seasonal French tasting course featuring local ingredients, paired with local sake. Enjoy the flavors of Chita while speaking with Chef Watanabe.

Recommended attractions: Gujo Hachiman Castle/Takayama Jinya/Shirakawa-go Gassho Village Go to Gujo Hachiman Castle to visit the exhibitions and historical introductions in the city, stroll along the city trails, and enjoy the natural scenery. Visit Takayama Jinya, explore different areas of the official residence, learn about the life and administrative functions of the Edo period, and understand and appreciate the architectural style and historical background of Jinya. Walk in the famous Shirakawa-go Gassho Village. Shirakawa-go Gassho Village is a typical Japanese mountain village surrounded by mountains. It is also listed as a World Cultural Heritage. A lighting ceremony is held every winter. At this time, Gassho Village will be brightly lit and is called a fairy tale town. This year's lighting dates are: January 13, January 19, January 26, and February 2, 2025. January and February are also the months when Shirakawa-go has the most snowfall.

Highlights - Discover Chita's rich fermentation heritage through sake, pottery, and seasonal local cuisine. - Discover traditional sake brewing at a family-run brewery founded in 1848. - Visit a Tokoname pottery studio creating tableware for Japan's finest restaurants. - Enjoy an award-winning seasonal French lunch paired with local sake. - Travel comfortably by private vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide. Overview Discover Chita’s culinary culture, south of Nagoya. Begin at Keigama, a Tokoname pottery studio representing one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. See how artisans create BAN tableware, developed with chefs to showcase food at its finest. Next, visit Sawada Sake Brewery, founded in 1848, and discover its sake-making traditions. The journey culminates with lunch at Le Coeuryuzu, one of Chita’s leading restaurants. An award-winning Chef serves seasonal ingredients on BAN pottery, paired with Sawada sake. Discover how it all comes together in Chita’s food culture.

Highlights -Journey into Chita Peninsula, a historic heartland of Japanese fermentation and brewing. -Discover how centuries-old fermentation techniques have shaped Japan’s distinctive food culture. -Explore the history and craft of vinegar-making at the interactive MIZKAN MUSEUM. -Step inside a historic sake brewery and taste locally produced Japanese sake. -Savor French cuisine showcasing local ingredients and traditional Japanese fermented seasonings Overview Discover the fermentation culture of the Chita Peninsula on a culinary day trip from Nagoya. Visit the MIZKAN MUSEUM to explore the history of vinegar-making and learn how vinegar is made from sake lees. Continue to Nakano Sake Brewery to see traditional brewing tools and sample local sake. The journey concludes at HANROK, a historic residence where French culinary techniques meet local ingredients and fermented seasonings. Enjoy a creative course lunch showcasing the flavors and traditions of the Chita Peninsula.

Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred shrines, and Matsue Castle, a national treasure, explore traditional tea ceremony culture at a historic teahouse, and stay overnight at a lakeside inn on Lake Shinji. Izumo Taisha (出雲大社) - This is one of Japan's most famous and oldest Shinto shrines, but its cultural and spiritual significance might not be immediately clear to international visitors.

Please note that even if you select “Tour Language: English(written),” the driver speaks Japanese only. Communication will be supported using a translation app, and English tour information will be provided in advance. Embark on an impossibly grand expedition connecting the absolute masterpiece of World Heritage architecture with profoundly monumental historic towns and flawlessly therapeutic hot springs. Discover incredibly striking merchant streets, walk perfectly through crystal-clear water alleys, and stand in absolute awe before majestic thatched-roof houses.