Topic: Nagoya day tours / Nagoya Day Trips
Nagoya Day Tours/Trips
While Nagoya is a huge metropolitan hub, it’s also surrounded by some of the most rich history in all of Japan! Gifu Prefecture, one hour from Nagoya is culturally rich in Samurai culture, and just west to Nagoya is Kansai with famous cultural capitals such as Kyoto and Nara. If you’re interested in old Japan, or deep nature and cultural history, Nagoya is a great option as a base for you to explore these places. Being the third largest city in Japan, there are countless of transportation methods to reach all of these places in around 2-3 hours or less.
Aichi Area
1. Inuyama Castle Town
Located in Aichi Prefecture, Inuyama is home to one of Japan’s oldest and most well-preserved castles, Inuyama Castle. The castle town is charming, with a traditional atmosphere and several historical buildings, including merchant houses and shrines. The castle offers stunning views of the Kiso River and the surrounding landscape.
By train: ~58 minutes
2. Meiji Mura Museum
The Meiji-Mura Museum is an open-air museum that showcases architecture from the Meiji era (1868-1912). It features buildings that were relocated from all over Japan, allowing visitors to explore the transition from traditional to modern Japan. It also makes for a great photo-op!
By train & bus: 1hr 10 mins
Kansai Area
3. Nara
Known for its historical sites and friendly, free-roaming deer, Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital. Key attractions include Todai-ji Temple, housing a massive bronze Buddha, and Nara Park, where visitors can interact with the deer. Nara is also home to several other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Kofuku-ji Temple. Visitors can roam the streets similar to the deer and eat hand made mochi or delicious Nara pudding!
For more details click here.
By bus: 2 1/2 hours
Gifu Area
4. Gifu Castle
Gifu castle, which dates back to the 16th century, was the home of famous samurai lord Oda Nobunaga. Historically, a very important battle occurred at this castle. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to reach the top. On the top is a gorgeous panoramic view over the entirety of Gifu Prefecture and even a small squirrel park!
By train & bus: ~1 hr 20 mins
5. Tsumago-juku
This historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail was a former highway that connected Kyoto and Edo (modern Tokyo) during the Edo period. It’s a popular destination for those wanting to experience old Japan. Tsumago-juku has preserved its traditional wooden buildings and picturesque streets, allowing visitors to feel as if they’re traveling through traditional Japan.
By train: ~2 hours
6. Takayama
Located in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a city hidden in the mountains known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and buildings. The town is famous for its traditional wooden houses, vibrant markets, delicious food, and the Takayama Matsuri (a popular festival in Japan). Takayama also serves as a gateway to explore the nearby mountainous regions including Shirakawago and the onsen town of Okuhida.
For more details click here.
By bus: ~2 1/2 hours
7. Shirakawago
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfalls. Located in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawago offers a glimpse into rural Japan’s past and is particularly beautiful during the winter when the village is covered in snow. Recently, it has been one of the post popular places to visit in Japan because of its isolated nature.
For more details click here.
By train & bus: ~3 1/2 hours
8. Hida Furukawa
This town’s picturesque streets, traditional buildings, and beautiful natural surroundings make it a popular destination for photographers. A popular attraction is feeding hundreds of carp in the river that flows through town. It is also popular for inspiring the hit anime movie, “Your Name”. Spots such as the train station and Wakamiya Shrine are famous points in the movie.
By train & bus: 2 hours 40 mins
Mie Area
9. Ise Jingu
Located in Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines where the imperial family often visits. Annually, thousands of visitors come here to pray for good luck or health. The shrine complex is surrounded by beautiful nature and is considered a spiritual site. The inner shrine, known as Naiku, is particularly significant and is rebuilt every 20 years as part of the Shinto tradition. It’s known as a powerful place to go pray!
By train & bus: ~2 hours
Shiga Area
10. Hikone Castle
Located in Shiga Prefecture on the shores of Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan. The castle grounds are beautiful, especially during cherry blossom season, and the castle’s interior offers a glimpse into feudal-era life. The mascot of the area, “Hikonyan”, is a cat with a samurai helmet. It is one of the top 5 famous mascots in Japan!
By train: ~1 hour 20 mins
