Top Aichi Prefecture Culture

There’s so much to see in the capital of the Aichi Prefecture—Nagoya—but if you want to avoid the restrictions of a full-day shared group tour, and you’d prefer to select the sites you visit, then this private and customizable walking tour is the one for you. First, choose from a list of potential stops; then, let a guide create a personalized itinerary. Potential stops you can visit include the Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Nagoya Castle, and the Toyota Automobile Museum.

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Japan on our one-day tour of Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Begin your journey by wandering through the charming streets of Hida Takayama, often referred to as "Little Kyoto," where you'll discover well-preserved Edo-era architecture, taste local delicacies like Hida beef and Takayama ramen, and shop for exquisite handcrafted items. Visit the bustling Miyagawa Morning Market, one of Japan's top three morning markets, to experience the vibrant local culture. Then, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, this tour promises unforgettable encounters with Japan's traditional way of life and breathtaking landscapes.

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.

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.

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 there, enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, and make your way around Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Valley of Witches, and Mononoke Village.

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

Join our tour and enjoy a captivating journey through time and culture as you explore the hidden gems of central Japan. Kokeizan Eihoji Temple, nestled in the serene countryside. Explore its peaceful grounds, adorned with lush gardens and ancient structures, offering a serene start to your cultural exploration. Enakyo Observatory for panoramic views of the Ena Gorge. Capture breathtaking vistas of the winding river and surrounding mountains, a perfect moment to connect with nature's beauty. Step back in time at Magome-juku, a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Wander along cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, indulge in local delicacies, and browse quaint shops offering handmade crafts. Tsumago-juku, another charming post town frozen in time. Explore its well-preserved streets, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Japan's Edo period. Reflect on the day's experiences and cherish memories of Japan's rich heritage.

Discover the rich history of Tokoname, one of Japan’s revered pottery towns, on a guided walking tour along the Yakimono Sanpomichi, or “Pottery Footpath.” Uncover how Tokoname's innovative spirit and abundant clay deposits shaped a legacy of practical ceramics that supported daily life across Japan. Explore the town's unique landscape, where ceramics define the scenery, and visit historic merchant houses that narrate the tale of maritime trade. The tour also sheds light on traditional techniques and modern interpretations of Tokoname ware, including the iconic maneki-neko. This immersive journey reveals the enduring connection between history, industry, and artistry in Tokoname. - Guided walking tour through Tokoname’s historic pottery district - Explore the Yakimono Sanpomichi, showcasing Tokoname's ceramic heritage - Visit historic merchant houses and learn about maritime trade connections - Experience modern and traditional Tokoname ceramics, including maneki-neko

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.

Experience a slice of traditional Japanese culture during this full-day trip combining Shirakawago and Hida Takayama. Wander the streets of Hida Takayama, a town affectionately known to locals as "Little Tokyo." Then, visit the traditional architecture of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Immerse yourself in the special charm of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the history and architecture of its iconic gassho-zukuri houses. As it is a self-guided tour, you can enjoy meals and sightseeing at your own pace. Enjoy a hassle-free journey from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go, with non-stop direct bus service. Please select an option with one-way or round trip bus tickets. One-way ticket from Nagoya to shirakawa-go: 6:45 AM from Nagoya 10:35 AM at Shirakawa-go One-way ticket from Shirakawa-go to Nagoya: 2:15 PM from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal 6:10 PM in Nagoya One-way ticket from Nagoya to shirakawa-go: 9:40 AM from Takayama green Hotel 10:35 AM at Shirakawa-go One-way ticket from Shirakawa-go to Takayama: 2:15 PM from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal 3:15 PM in Takayama

Nagoya is known as the “Heart of Japan” for not only its central location and historical significance but also for its great contributions to industry and innovation in Japan. The industrial prominence of the region had led it to become the home to manufacturing giants such as Toyota, Brother, Noritake, Ibanez, Buffalo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. This journey through Japan’s center of commerce will provide you with a glimpse into Nagoya’s industrial past and its dreams for a technological future as you are led by a professional guide on this full-day tour.

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!

●　Inuyama Castle is one of only five national treasure castles and one of the oldest castles in Japan still in its original condition. ●　Natural Cliff Observation Deck-Eina Gorge Observation Deck ●　Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku received one star in the Michelin Green Guide Chinese/Japanese /English local professional guide, reliable and considerate service, detailed understanding of local customs in Japan Notice: We choice the model of vehicles depended on traveler pax of groups.

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 and lick 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.

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. .

Experience Japan's most sacred shrine on a fully guided day trip from Nagoya. Visit Ise Grand Shrine, explore the charming streets of Okage Yokocho, watch traditional Ama divers at Mikimoto Pearl Island, and stand before the famous Wedded Rocks of Meoto Iwa. This small group tour takes the stress out of planning with round-trip transportation from Nagoya, included admission to location, and an experienced guide who brings Japan's Shinto traditions, history, and culture to life. Whether it's your first visit to Japan or you're returning to explore beyond the major cities, this tour offers the perfect way to experience the spiritual heart of Japan and explore the natural highlights of Ise in one unforgettable day.

Nagoya is a city where tradition and modern life exist side by side, from historic castles and serene gardens to lively shopping streets and local neighborhoods. With a local host by your side, you will explore the city beyond a checklist of sights, discovering the details and stories that bring Nagoya to life. This is not a fixed itinerary. Your experience is shaped entirely around your interests, pace, and curiosity. Whether you are drawn to history, food culture, spiritual sites, or contemporary city life, your host will create a route that reflects what you want to see and experience. Before your experience, you will complete an online personalization form so your host can design a tailored plan just for you. As you explore, you will move naturally between well-known landmarks and lesser-known corners, experiencing Nagoya in a way that feels personal, flexible, and immersive.

Shape this private tour of Tokyo to your tastes and preferences. You won't waste any time at stops you're not interested in, and can enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you want to eat like a local or go hunting for a certain collectible, your guide can provide insights and help you navigate the city more efficiently.

Experience two of Japan's most beautiful historic destinations in one unforgettable day. This guided small-group tour from Nagoya visits UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and the preserved merchant town of Hida Takayama, with transportation, professional guiding, and time to explore included. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Japan, couples, and families, as we'll take care of all transportation (including luggage storage on our tour vehicles) and provide expert insight so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey into the Japanese countryside. Whether you're returning to Nagoya or continuing your journey to Takayama, Shirakawa-go, or Kanazawa, the tour offers the flexibility to fit a variety of travel itineraries. With transportation, luggage storage, and a knowledgeable guide included, you can focus on exploring these historic destinations and taking in the beauty of the Japanese countryside.

Explore the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in Nagoya and learn about Toyota’s evolution from a textile company to a global automotive leader. Begin at the Textile Machinery Pavilion, where you can discover Toyota’s origins and see the G-type automatic loom, invented by Sakichi Toyoda. Then, head to the Automotive Pavilion to explore Toyota’s automotive history, including the Toyoda Model AA and other key milestones. Watch live demonstrations of manufacturing processes like pressing, welding, and assembly, and participate in hands-on activities. The museum also showcases Toyota’s environmental initiatives, such as hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Housed in a historic red-brick factory, the museum offers a rich and atmospheric experience. Don’t forget to pick up unique souvenirs related to Toyota’s history and innovations.

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.

Step into the timeless charm of Takayama, a picturesque city nestled in the mountainous Hida region, where beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, traditional merchant houses, and cozy alleys create an authentic old-town atmosphere. As you stroll through the historic district, you can explore local craft shops, sample regional treats, and even visit traditional sake breweries that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. A short journey brings you to the enchanting village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Surrounded by serene countryside and scenic mountain views, the village offers a peaceful glimpse into Japan’s rural past, making it a truly unforgettable cultural and photogenic experience.