Top Nagoya Arts & Design in 2026

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.)

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.

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.

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.

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 -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.

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.

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 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.

Highlights - Step inside the private home studio of internationally acclaimed ceramic artist Chikako Yoshikawa. - Meet master teapot artisan Yoshiki Murata, with over 60 years of craftsmanship. - Discover one-of-a-kind Tokoname teapots shaped by tradition, imagination, and playful creativity. - Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Footpath among kilns, brick chimneys, studios, and galleries. - Experience how tradition and contemporary creativity come together in Tokoname pottery. Overview Discover Tokoname pottery, where 1,000 years of tradition inspire new forms. Walk the historic Pottery Footpath, where old kilns, chimneys, and workshops reveal Tokoname’s ceramic heritage. Visit ceramic artist Chikako Yoshikawa’s private studio and hear about her vision and creative process Then meet Yoshiki Murata, a master artisan with 60 years of experience making Tokoname teapots. See his creations up close and discover how traditional techniques meet playful forms and colors.

・Explore Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kiln pottery regions. ・Wander the historic Pottery Path through kilns, brick chimneys, workshops, and galleries. ・Discover Tokoname’s centuries-old tradition of crafting large ceramic crocks and vessels. ・Visit Tokoname’s only workshop still dedicated to making traditional ceramic crocks. ・Craft your own fermentation crock with guidance from a third-generation artisan.

Highlights -Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Path, shaped by over 1,000 years of ceramic tradition. -Discover brick chimneys, old kiln sites, ceramic-lined slopes, workshops, and galleries. -Visit an indigo workshop that grows, prepares, ferments, and dyes its own indigo. -Dye your own tenugui using natural indigo and centuries-old fermentation techniques. -Experience two distinctive Japanese traditions: Tokoname pottery and the deep hues of Japan Blue. Overview Discover Tokoname’s pottery heritage alongside natural indigo dyeing. Walk the Pottery Footpath, where old kilns, chimneys, workshops, and Clay Pipe Hill reveal 1,000 years of ceramic history. Then visit Konya no Namiho, an indigo workshop where plants are grown, fermented, and transformed into dye. Using a traditional indigo vat, create your own tenugui, a Japanese cotton cloth dyed in a rich blue known as “Japan Blue.” Experience two traditions shaped by generations of craftsmanship and the natural world.

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.

Highlights - Meet three accomplished artisans preserving and reimagining Tokoname’s celebrated teapot-making tradition. - Step inside working pottery studios and observe distinctive techniques, forms, and finishes. - Discover how different teapot designs influence brewing and transform the flavor of tea. - Enjoy a personal tea-brewing demonstration led by a fourth-generation Tokoname craftsman. - Wander Tokoname’s historic Pottery Footpath among brick chimneys, kilns, and ceramic-lined lanes. Overview Travel from Nagoya to Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, and discover its 1,000-year pottery tradition. Explore the Pottery Footpath and visit three working studios to discover the artistry of Tokoname kyusu, traditional Japanese teapots. Meet veteran potter Yoshiki Murata at Gyokko Toen and explore flat teapots at Kenzangama. Conclude with a tea-brewing demonstration by fourth-generation craftsman Junzo Maekawa. Taste Japanese tea and speak with the artisan.

Highlights - Explore the Suzuki Violin Workshop, Japan’s pioneering violin manufacturer with over a century of history - Learn directly from master violin makers, discovering the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation behind Suzuki violins - Play and compare different violins, experiencing their unique sound and resonance in a professional setting - Exclusive customization options for buyers, including personalized name engraving and an original label inside the violin Overview Step into the world of Japanese violin craftsmanship with an exclusive visit to the Suzuki Violin Workshop, founded in 1887 by Masakichi Suzuki, a pioneer of Japan’s violin-making industry. Meet master artisans, learn about the making process, and compare the tones of different instruments. Guests who wish to purchase a violin may do so directly from the workshop after the tour. Credit card payment is accepted. *Please inform us at the time of booking if you are considering a purchase.

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.

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.

Highlights -Explore Japan’s fermentation culture through traditional ceramic crocks and natural indigo dyeing. -Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Path, shaped by over 1,000 years of ceramics. -Visit Tokoname’s only traditional fermentation crock workshop and meet third-generation artisan Yuji Koie. -See how ceramic crocks for miso, pickles, and other fermented foods are made. -Dye your own tenugui using a natural indigo vat created through fermentation. Overview Discover Japan’s fermentation culture through two traditional crafts in Tokoname, a pottery town with over 1,000 years of history. Walk the historic Pottery Path, then visit Yamagen Toen, a workshop making traditional fermentation crocks for over 60 years. Meet third-generation artisan Yuji Koie and see how local clay becomes vessels for fermented foods such as miso. Finally, visit Konya no Namiho, an indigo studio where fermentation creates natural indigo dye. Dye your own tenugui and experience Japan’s iconic deep blue.

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.

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.

Highlights -Learn the 400-year-old tradition of Nagoya’s paper lanterns -Create your own with guidance from a skilled craftsman -Choose washi paper and assemble a keepsake -Foldable design makes it easy to carry -Experience culture in a historic district Tour Overview Step into the world of Nagoya Chōchin, lanterns that have lit Japan’s festivals for 400 years. Backed by the Tokugawa shoguns, they are known for bamboo frames and the soft glow of washi. By the Meiji era, Nagoya was Japan’s top producer, exporting them worldwide as symbols of refined artistry. At Wazamon Chaya in Japan Culture Village, discover this heritage and make one yourself. Guided by an artisan, choose washi, paste it on the frame, and craft a lantern that folds flat — a practical, memorable souvenir. The workshop is set in Japan Culture Village, home to shrines, old shops, and cafés, where tradition and modern life meet.

Highlights - Discover Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns with over 1,000 years of history. - Visit Tokoname, Japan’s leading center for bonsai pot production. - Craft your own authentic bonsai pot under the guidance of a master artisan. - Explore a gallery showcasing distinctive bonsai pots and other Tokoname ceramics. - Stroll the atmospheric Pottery Footpath among historic kilns, chimneys, and ceramic-lined lanes. Overview Discover Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, on this half-day tour from Nagoya. Explore its 1,000-year ceramic history and tradition of bonsai pots. Visit Kakuzan Toen and meet fifth-generation artisan Koji Watanabe. Under his guidance, create your own bonsai pot using a traditional mold-forming technique. Choose a round or oval design and shape a pot for the bonsai it may one day hold. Explore the studio gallery to see a variety of bonsai pots and Tokoname ware. Your pot will be fired and shipped to you about six weeks later as a lasting reminder.