Top Aichi Prefecture Cultural Tours

When in Nagoya, don’t miss the chance to explore Studio Ghibli. This hassle-free tour provides your entrance ticket to the park, a tasty bento box lunch, plus round-trip transfers from a meeting point in Nagoya. Once arrived, enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, and make your way around Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Valley of Witches, and Mononoke Village.

Reaching the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go and the Edo-period streets of Takayama from Nagoya on your own means navigating rural bus timetables with limited English signage. This round-trip bus tour handles all the logistics—driving you into the mountains of Gifu with a conductor who speaks English or Chinese. Upgrade to include a lunch of Hida beef teppanyaki or an oden set.

Join us for a comfortable private car tour for all ages of Nagoya and its nearby surroundings, guided by a fun and experienced local expert. Relax and enjoy the views and engaging conversation as we travel from one location to the next. This itinerary is a template and can be customized to suit your preferences. Tokugawa garden and Osu Kannon old shopping street can be substituted for the Toyota museum (1200 yen pp)or a bamboo forest, where you can walk and actually touch the trees! It's perfect for the warmer (eg melting hot) and cold (frozen into a popsicle) times. This tour is especially recommended for Cruise ship passengers, as you get picked up at the boat terminal and returned there in time. There is no better way to see Nagoya than by car.

Discover the evolution of the automobile at the Toyota Automobile Museum, where over a century of automotive innovation comes to life. This guided tour immerses you in the rich history of vehicles, from horse-drawn carriages to the modern era, showcasing an impressive collection of authentic cars that narrate the global story of transportation. Explore how Japanese manufacturers, including Toyota, transformed the automotive landscape while gaining insights into social changes influenced by automobiles. With an expert guide, delve into the craftsmanship and design philosophies that shaped the industry, making this tour a must for technology and history enthusiasts alike. - Explore over 100 years of automotive history with authentic vehicles - Understand the evolution of design and manufacturing of the automobile - Experience the cultural impact of cars on lifestyle and national identity - Enjoy expert guidance that makes complex topics accessible to all

Hida Takayama’s old town preserves the charm of an Edo-period castle town, with wooden machiya houses lining the Sanmachi streets. Lattice windows, flowing canals, and soft morning or sunset light create a timeless atmosphere, where craftsmanship and the scent of sake reflect the town’s quiet elegance. Shirakawa-go feels like a storybook village nestled in the mountains. Its gassho-zukuri farmhouses shine through every season—cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn leaves, and winter snow—while clear streams and surrounding hills create a serene harmony with nature.

Gujo Hachiman: Located in the center of Japan in Gifu Prefecture, the streets of Gujo Hachiman have retained an atmosphere unchanged since the Edo period. See the rows of old houses that have been selected as a group of important traditional buildings by the national government. Explore the town known for its waterway that runs past the eaves of the houses. Hida Takayama: a castle town from the Edo period. Enjoy local gourmet food and shopping while strolling through the old streets, including traditional Hida handicraft stores and candy stores. Shirakawago: Shirakawa-go and the Gokayama Gassho-Zukuri Villages are well known for the large number of gassho-zukuri houses, some 100 in all, that still remain and are used by the people who live there. The village has been inscribed in the Michelin Green Guide Japon and as a World Heritage Site. It is a place like the hometown of Japan where you can deeply feel the rural culture and lifestyle that is the original landscape of Japan.

Hiking in the forest is one of the most relaxing things you can do, but things can get stressful if you lose your way. This full-day tour of the Nakasendo Trail from Nagoya helps you immerse yourself in nature by including a guide who leads the way, so you don’t have to keep checking your phone.

Explore some of Nagoya’s top sites through the eyes of a local on this guided tour. Visit Nagoya Castle, the Oasis 21 tower, try some of Nagoya’s local food (at your own expense), the Nagoya downtown shopping area, and the Osu Kannon Arcade and Temple. Learn all about the history of samurai with the chance to meet a samurai or a ninja!

Explore Nagoya’s historic Osu district on a guided walking tour that begins at the stunning Osu Kannon Temple. Capture memorable photos by the grand gate and learn about the temple's rich history. Then, delve into the vibrant Osu Shopping District, where you’ll sample local delicacies such as miso-katsu and tebasaki while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the arcades. Keep your camera ready for iconic landmarks like the giant maneki-neko and the colorful shopping gates. This tour is perfect for food lovers and culture enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Nagoya's unique flavors and traditions. - Visit the iconic Osu Kannon Temple and learn its history - Savor local specialties like miso-katsu and tebasaki - Enjoy a guided stroll through the vibrant Osu Shopping District - Perfect for travelers wanting to experience Nagoya’s culture and cuisine

Discover Nagoya’s highlights in just 6 hours with a knowledgeable and friendly local guide. This tour is the most efficient way for first-time visitors to cover many of the city’s major highlights. Travel like a local using Japan’s famously clean and punctual public transportation! Cruise ship guests are welcome — our guides will ensure you return to the port strictly on time. The itinerary is just a model — we’ll always tailor it to suit your pace and interests. -Just come ready to have once in a lifetime adventure !

Sumo, a revered Japanese martial art and combat sport, boasts a rich tradition dating back to ancient times. You can sit in a chair and observe. (Usually, visitors sit on the ground.) Embark on a unique tour that grants you exclusive access to witness sumo wrestlers engaged in rigorous practice, offering a rare chance to capture the moment with them. An English-speaking guide will be available at the meeting place, the temple “Ryushoin”. You will be able to see the techniques of sumo wrestlers up close. Delve into the intensity of daily training for professional Sumo wrestlers, providing a rare and intimate glimpse into their dedication and discipline. Explore the renowned Takasago stable, distinguished for producing six yokozuna (the highest rank in sumo, often referred to as grand champions) and eight ozeki (the second-highest rank, signifying accomplished sumo wrestlers). This solidifies its status as one of the most prestigious sumo stables globally.

This exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Nagoya Castle in two distinct ways: a quick 90-minute overview or a comprehensive 150-minute in-depth experience. During the tour, you can capture memorable photos against the majestic backdrop of the castle's architecture. Learn about the castle's historical significance, built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the residence of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa family. Admire the golden "Kinshachi" (golden dolphins) atop the main keep, symbolizing prosperity and power. Explore the Honmaru Palace, rebuilt with traditional craftsmanship, exemplifying the grandeur of feudal Japan with intricate fusuma paintings and refined wooden construction. Visit the Nishinomaru Archives and Museum, housing exhibits detailing the castle's history, architecture, and role in Japan’s urban development.

Hi lovely travelers, A tour for all ages! Join this unforgettable tour of Korankei valley , a peaceful retreat from the busyness of Nagoya, with a stop at Toganji temple, under the guidance of a private experienced guide by minivan. Relax and enjoy the view while I take you from your place of departure to the locations and back. I will answer any questions you have about Japan and life in Japan, through the eyes of an unbiased "Japan lifer". Stroll through the historic streets, dip your toes in the river, and if you're feeling adventurous, embark on a gentle hike. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Edo period and enjoy the tranquility that Asuke has to offer. A great chance for travelers weary of large group of tourists and or have seen all the major toursits spots and would like to experience Japan's tranquil side. .

・Visit World Heritage Site Shiragawa-go in Gifu Prefecture with the largest scale of thatched roof houses, which is called “Gassho-zukuri”. The houses are capped with snow during cold time in winter and the scenery is just like a fairy-tale! ・Appreciate the historic streets of Hida Takayama. There are many delicious country-style restaurants in Takayama, so please enjoy eating out on your own. ・Gujo Hachiman is also called the "water town". It is full of atmosphere, with pebble roads, waterways, rows of willow trees, and large mansions. ・There will be shopping stop for local souvenirs such as pickles or soy bean ice-cream！ ・Depart from and return to Nagoya Station, which is easily accessible for public transportation.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Nestled in the Japanese Alps lie the charming towns of Shirakawa-go and Takayama. Discover these hidden treasures with a knowledgeable guide. Take an air-conditioned bus ride through scenic routes to get to these hidden treasures. In Takayama, make your way through the beautifully preserved streets lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries. Browse local produce, crafts, and snacks at the lively morning market by the Miyagawa River. From there, the adventure continues to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawa-go village. Marvel at the centuries-old traditional houses with steeply pitched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Discover where Shirakawa gets its name of “White River” through this guided tour across its natural wonders. Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

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.

This half-day guided tour lets you stroll through the streets of Nagoya wearing a traditional kimono. Begin by choosing your favorite from your extensive collection of authentic kimonos, with a wide variety of colors and styles for both kimonos and obis, allowing you to express your own personality. Next, take a quick 5-minute subway ride to Nagoya Castle, where your guide will share fascinating stories about the castle’s history and the culture of Nagoya. Stop by Oasis 21 to enjoy shopping and take in panoramic views of the city from the rooftop. Finally, explore iconic spots like Hisaya Odori, often called the "Champs-Élysées of Japan," and capture memorable photos with your guide’s assistance.

Highlights -Step inside Tōshun Brewery, a 160-year-old sake maker guided by the master brewer -Explore kura storehouses over 100 years old, built with timbers reserved for Nagoya Castle -Taste three distinctive sake varieties and discover how brewing methods shape flavor -Receive a bottle of the brewery’s celebrated sake, as a special souvenir Tour Overview This exclusive tour takes you inside Tōshun Shuzō, a historic sake brewery in Nagoya with over 160 years of tradition. Step into the Edo-period storehouse, built with timbers originally intended for Nagoya Castle, and see centuries-old brewing tools and documents. In the modern brewery, the master brewer guides you through each stage of the sake-making process. From November to April, you may even witness live brewing in progress. Afterward, enjoy a tasting of three distinct sake varieties, each crafted with different techniques. To conclude, receive a bottle of the brewery’s signature label as a memorable gift.

Unravel Nagoya's secrets with Shachihiko, the city's legendary golden shachihoko! Journey from the futuristic Nagoya Station through Edo-era merchant streets, majestic Nagoya Castle, bustling food alleys, and cosmic science museums, finishing amidst Sakae's neon glow. History, humor, and immersive storytelling await on this self-guided adventure blending samurai legends with modern marvels. Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

Make the most of your time in Nagoya with a customizable full-day tour just for you and your party. Go at your own pace and only include the places that interest you. Check out highlights such as Nagoya Castle, shrines and temples, the Nagoya City Science Museum, and more. There’s no need to follow around a large group visiting places that don’t appeal to you.

Discover the timeless charm of Arimatsu, a beautifully preserved historic town known for its traditional shibori tie-dye craftsmanship. Begin your experience with a hands-on workshop where you’ll create your own one-of-a-kind shibori piece — a special souvenir to take home the same day. Then, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the picturesque streets of Arimatsu, lined with Edo-period architecture and local artisan shops. Guided by friendly locals, this tour offers a deeper, more personal connection to Nagoya’s cultural heritage. This tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Advance reservation is required to secure your spot.

Swap the crowds and rigid itineraries of group tours for a private and personalized experience of Nagoya. This full-day walking tour allows you to customize the experience to suit your own interests, whether that's checking off Nagoya's most-important landmarks such as Nagoya Castle and the Atsuta Shrine, or diving into the city's rich culinary scene.

Get to know the flavors and culture of Nagoya with a walking tour. Join a guide to see historic temples and shrines plus small restaurants and specialty shops loved by locals. Visit a kimono shop, taste street foods such as okonomiyaki (a Japanese savory pancake), and sample Japanese sweets.