Top Aichi Prefecture Art Tours

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.

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.

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 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 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

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.

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.

Explore MITSUI OUTLET PARK Jazz Dream Nagashima which is a large shopping destination designed with comfortable spaces to enhance your shopping experience. It offers a wide range of high-quality brands, making it easy to find and purchase your favorite items. Convenient services, such as simple and straightforward tax refund procedures, cater to international visitors. Additionally, the center features numerous parent-child-friendly facilities, making it an ideal spot for the entire family to enjoy together. After an exciting shopping spree, unwind at the nearby Nagashima Hot Spring. This expansive hot spring facility, built with 13,000 tons of mountain stone, features 17 different types of indoor and open-air hot springs, all sourced from natural streams. Experience the largest hot spring in Japan, designed to showcase the beauty of seasonal flowers and trees, and divided into sections inspired by Oirase Keiryu and Kurobe Kyokoku, ensuring a rejuvenating and memorable experience.

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.

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.)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Book a special half-day tour to discover the sacred atmosphere of Atsuta Shrine in the fresh morning air with a knowledgable guide. Here, you’ll soak in the centuries-old serenity at the home to one of Japan’s legendary sacred treasures, the Kusanagi Sword. Afterward, at a renowned Japanese sweets shop you’ll learn to make traditional sweets, and you’ll make authentic matcha green tea and receive a tea whisk as a keepsake. A unique chance to fully immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural traditions off the beaten track.