Not Just Nagoya! A Travel Guide to Enjoying the Many Charms of Aichi
Aichi Prefecture is best known for Nagoya, one of Japan’s three major cities and a popular sightseeing destination.
But did you know Aichi also has many appealing places to visit beyond Nagoya?
If you are not yet familiar with what Aichi has to offer, this article provides a comprehensive introduction to each sightseeing area’s charms and highlights, along with transportation information, local food, and other useful tips for planning your trip.
It also includes a model course visiting classic and popular sightseeing spots, so it is a must-read before your first trip to Aichi.
Aichi, Home to Nagoya, One of Japan’s Three Major Cities
Located in central Japan, Aichi has plains stretching from the west to the south, while hills and mountains extend across the north and east.
In the south are the Chita and Atsumi Peninsulas, which jut out toward the Pacific Ocean, with Mikawa Bay between them.
When people think of sightseeing in Aichi, they often think of Nagoya City. It is not only full of sightseeing spots, but also a major city where one-third of Aichi’s population lives.
That is why it has an abundance of leisure facilities such as amusement parks and aquariums, as well as commercial facilities where you can enjoy gourmet food and shopping.
Aichi is also the birthplace of the famous warlords Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, who were active during the Sengoku period (1467–1590), so there are many spots connected to them.
It is also known as the home of the headquarters and factories of Toyota Motor Corporation, one of Japan’s world-renowned automobile manufacturers.
Along with its diverse sightseeing spots, be sure to enjoy its wide variety of local food as well.
Aichi’s Average Temperatures by Month and What to Wear
Aichi has a mild climate throughout the year.
On the peninsulas in the south, the Kuroshio Current makes the weather warmer than in other areas.
The mountainous areas in the north and east have lower average temperatures than the plains, and it can even snow there in winter.
Average Monthly Temperatures in Aichi
| - | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temperature (°C) | 4.8 | 5.5 | 9.2 | 14.6 | 19.4 | 23.0 | 26.9 | 28.2 | 24.5 | 18.6 | 12.6 | 7.2 |
Seasonal Clothing Guide for Aichi
- Spring (March - May): Light jacket and thin sweater
- Summer (June - August): Light clothing, short sleeves
- Fall (September - November): Light jacket, coat
- Winter (December - February): Coat, wool suit, thick sweater or jacket
Access to Aichi
From Tokyo, Aichi is about 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen, or about 1 hour by plane.
From Osaka, it is about 50 minutes by Shinkansen.
Chubu Centrair International Airport in Aichi also has international flights, so you can get there directly from places such as Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Access from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Major Stations
From here, let’s look at how to get from Chubu Centrair International Airport to JR Nagoya Station.
Nagoya Station is a terminal station in Aichi and one of the main transportation hubs for sightseeing.
- Route
-
1. Take the Meitetsu Tokoname Airport Line Limited Express from Chubu Centrair International Airport and get off at Meitetsu Nagoya Station
2. Walk Approx. 6 minutes from Meitetsu Nagoya Station to JR Nagoya Station - Travel Time
- Approx. 45 minutes
Main Ways to Get Around Aichi
Aichi has an excellent public transportation network, so you can visit most major sightseeing spots by train and bus.
If the distance between spots is short, renting a bicycle is also recommended.
It lets you experience the streets of Aichi more closely than using public transportation.
The Great-Value Donichi Eco Kippu Pass You Should Use for Your Aichi Trip
If you plan to focus on sightseeing in Nagoya during your Aichi trip, the Donichi Eco Kippu is recommended.
The Donichi Eco Kippu is a special pass that gives unlimited rides on all subway lines, the Meguru sightseeing bus, and city buses in Nagoya on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and the 8th of every month.
The price is 620 yen for adults and 310 yen for children.
If you plan to sightsee in Nagoya, want to enjoy as many attractions as possible in one day, and prefer to avoid walking as much as possible, this pass should be a great deal.
The Charms of 7 Areas You Should Know Before Traveling to Aichi
Nagoya may be the most famous part of Aichi, but there are many other attractive places to visit as well.
From here, let’s look at the charms and highlights of Aichi’s seven different areas.
Each has a completely different atmosphere and different sightseeing spots, so be sure to visit areas beyond Nagoya too.
The Nagoya Area, the Center of Aichi with Many Different Charms
Located in northwestern Aichi, the Nagoya Area refers, as the name suggests, to the major city of Nagoya and its surrounding area.
Nagoya Castle is one of Japan’s three great castles and the symbol of Nagoya.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is a museum where you can learn about the history of textile machinery, which can be called the origin of Japan’s automaker Toyota, and the history of automotive technology.
There are also many other sightseeing spots scattered throughout the area, including Nagoya Port Aquarium and Osu Shopping Street, where many shops and restaurants gather.
From bustling big-city districts to neighborhoods with a traditional downtown feel and the historic atmosphere around Nagoya Castle, the area has many sides, so it is fun to sightsee with a theme in mind.
Public transportation is also well developed, so getting between sightseeing spots should feel stress-free.
Northern Owari Area, Full of Rich Nature and Things to See
The Northern Owari Area lies next to the northeastern side of the Nagoya Area.
Its rich natural beauty, including mountains that change with the seasons and rivers centered around the Kiso River, is one of its main attractions.
The most popular sightseeing spot in this area is Inuyama Castle.
Its keep is known for having the features of the oldest existing early watchtower-style keep and is designated as a National Treasure.
Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park is another popular sightseeing spot well worth visiting, and inside its beautiful natural park is a memorial museum for the World Exposition held in 2005.
Ghibli Park, where you can experience the world of Studio Ghibli, is also a must-see.
Western Owari Area, Where You Can Feel History and Traditional Culture
The Western Owari Area lies to the northwest of the Nagoya Area and borders Gifu and Mie.
With many temples and shrines and several places that marked turning points in history, it is an irresistible area for history lovers.
One especially famous spot is Kiyosu Castle, the starting point where Oda Nobunaga began his move toward unifying Japan and also the site of the Kiyosu Conference, where his successor was chosen after his death in war.
Another attraction is the many festivals famous across Japan, including the Konomiya Hadaka Festival and the Ichinomiya Tanabata Festival, with various events held throughout the year.
If the timing works out, join one of the festivals and experience traditional Japanese culture.
Chita Area, Packed with the Charms of Aichi and the Sea
The Chita Peninsula in southwestern Aichi is also known as the Chita Area.
Because Chubu Centrair International Airport is located here, it serves as the gateway for visitors coming to Aichi from overseas.
As it is a peninsula, you can fully enjoy the appeal of the sea, whether by swimming at the beach, trying gourmet dishes made with fresh seafood, or taking in spectacular ocean views.
Nomasaki Lighthouse in Mihama Town is especially famous as a scenic spot. It offers a panoramic view of Ise Bay, and the sight of the sun setting on the horizon is exceptionally beautiful.
Minamichita Beach Land & Minamichita Toy Kingdom is another popular sightseeing spot.
You can observe fish living in Ise Bay in settings close to their natural habitat, and also interact with marine animals such as sea lions and seals.
There is also an attached Toy Kingdom with Approx. 600 kinds of toys to play with, making it a dreamlike place for children.
Nishi-Mikawa Area, Home to Many Spots Connected to Tokugawa Ieyasu
The Nishi-Mikawa Area in central Aichi is famous as the hometown of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who achieved the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period.
There are many spots connected to Tokugawa Ieyasu and many places with a historical atmosphere, including Okazaki Castle, where he was born, old streets that remain in the castle town, and traces of its development as a post town during the Edo period.
Its rich natural scenery is also one of its attractions, and Korankei is especially well known as a famous spot for fall foliage.
The illuminated autumn leaves are truly spectacular.
Higashi-Mikawa Area, Where You Can See Spectacular Seasonal Scenery
In southern Aichi, the Higashi-Mikawa Area, home to the Atsumi Peninsula, has many coastlines and a warm climate that gives it a tropical feel.
You can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery throughout the year at places such as Irago Cape Lighthouse at the tip of the Atsumi Peninsula, known for its beautiful sea views and starry skies, Irago Nanohana Garden filled with blooming rapeseed flowers and sunflowers, the Kawazu cherry blossoms along Menda River that bloom early, and Shioonji Temple, where wisteria flowers are in full bloom.
There is also Laguna Ten Bosch, a large complex with a theme park, hot spring facilities, and an outlet mall.
Other attractions include Takeshima Aquarium, known for its full-scale exhibits and the fun contrast with its unique explanatory texts and POP displays.
Okumikawa Area, the Place to Visit for Grand Natural Scenery
The Okumikawa Area in eastern Aichi is home to grand natural scenery.
Shitara no Senmaida terraced rice fields are especially famous, with beautiful rice terraces spreading across the mountain slopes.
The wide-open, greenery-filled scenery is one of their main attractions, and the fields are still cultivated by local farmers today.
Sakurabuchi Park, located in a gorge along the Toyokawa River, is popular as a cherry blossom spot.
The cherry blossoms harmonizing with the beauty of the gorge are gorgeous, and the red and orange fall leaves are another highlight.
Chausuyama Kogen is also a recommended sightseeing spot, where you can enjoy flower fields spreading out before your eyes from the lift.
How Many Days You Need to Fully Enjoy Aichi
Since the main sightseeing spots are concentrated in Nagoya, a 2-day, 1-night trip is enough if your plan is to visit Nagoya plus nearby areas.
If you also want to go to the Chita Peninsula or Atsumi Peninsula, you will need at least 2 nights.
A 2-Day, 1-Night Model Course Visiting Aichi’s Popular Sightseeing Spots
Here is a model course centered on Nagoya, one of Aichi’s most popular sightseeing destinations, that takes you around classic and popular attractions.
While visiting places where you can feel Japanese history and culture, such as famous castles and Japanese gardens, you will also explore museums, an aquarium, and shopping spots.
Because it lets you fully enjoy Aichi’s diverse charms, first-time visitors to Aichi should use this model course as a guide.
Day 1: Visit Nagoya’s Popular Sightseeing Spots
Day 1 takes you around Nagoya City, one of the most popular areas in Aichi.
Starting with the iconic Nagoya Castle, enjoy a wide variety of classic spots including shrines, shopping streets, museums, and an aquarium.
With all the different attractions Nagoya offers, you should be able to enjoy sightseeing all day without getting bored.
8:30am Start from JR Nagoya Station
Day 1 begins at JR Nagoya Station.
Take the subway to Nagoyajo Station. From there, it is a 5-minute walk to the first stop, Nagoya Castle.
9:00am Explore Nagoya Castle, the Symbol of Nagoya
This is one of Japan’s largest castles, built in the early Edo period by order of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
At the top of its five-tiered main keep shine two golden shachihoko, a male and a female, which have become the symbol of Nagoya.
Take a walk around the castle grounds, centering on the main keep with its two gleaming golden shachihoko and the majestic Honmaru Palace decorated with wall paintings.
10:35am Admire the Treasures of a Warlord Who Ruled the Nation at the Tokugawa Art Museum
From the bus stop nearest Nagoya Castle, take a bus to the Tokugawaen, Tokugawa Art Museum, Hosa Bunko bus stop.
Once you get off, you will arrive at the Tokugawa Art Museum right away.
This museum houses and exhibits a number of treasures passed down through the Owari Tokugawa family, and it opened in 1935 with the aim of 19th head Tokugawa Yoshichika to pass daimyo culture on to future generations.
Its collection includes masterpieces such as swords, armor, tea utensils, and Noh theater items given by Tokugawa Ieyasu to the Owari Tokugawa family.
You can also see a collection of over 10,000 daimyo tools and artworks, including cherished belongings of successive heads of the Owari Tokugawa family and their wives.
12:10pm Enjoy Shopping and Food at Osu Shopping Street
After viewing the artworks, take a bus from the Tokugawaen Shindechi bus stop and transfer to get off at Kamimaezu.
Once you get off, you will arrive right away at Osu Shopping Street, Nagoya’s largest shopping arcade.
Approx. 1,200 shops and facilities from every genre imaginable, including restaurants, vintage clothing stores, variety shops, and electronics stores, are packed together here, creating a distinctive atmosphere.
Enjoy shopping, then have lunch at any place that catches your eye.
2:00pm Visit Atsuta Jingu Shrine, One of Aichi’s Leading Power Spots
After lunch, walk to Kamimaezu Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meijo Line.
Take the subway and get off at Atsuta Jingu Nishi Station. From there, it is Approx. 7 minutes on foot to Atsuta Jingu Shrine.
In addition to the main shrine, a total of 45 shrines, including auxiliary and subordinate shrines, are enshrined here, such as Kamichikama Shrine, where ema prayer plaques for exam success and academic achievement are offered, and Kusunoki Gozensha, worshiped by women as a deity for safe childbirth.
Be sure to visit one of the leading power spots not only in Nagoya but in all of Aichi.
3:10pm Enjoy Impressive Performances at Nagoya Port Aquarium
After your shrine visit, walk Approx. 3 minutes to Meitetsu Jingu-mae Station.
Transfer trains and get off at Nagoyako Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meiko Line. From there, it is Approx. 5 minutes on foot to Nagoya Port Aquarium.
This huge aquarium consists of the North Building, where you can see dolphins, belugas, and killer whales, and the South Building, which has a variety of tanks including a live coral tank. Dolphin performances and public killer whale training sessions held in Japan’s largest pool, measuring 60 meters wide, 30 meters deep, and with a maximum depth of 12 meters, are truly impressive.
Enjoy the aquarium to the fullest, as it is packed with many other highlights as well.
6:00pm Relax in the Superb Location at Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
After enjoying the aquarium, return to the nearest station and head back to Nagoya Station.
Your accommodation for the first night is Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, directly connected to Nagoya Station.
Located inside JR Central Towers, the hotel offers panoramic views of Nagoya from its guest rooms and restaurants on floors 15 through 52.
Another attraction is its eight restaurants and bars, serving a wide range of cuisines including Japanese, Chinese, French, and teppanyaki.
Day 2: Visit Spots Where You Can Experience the History and Culture of Nagoya and Nearby Areas
On Day 2, you will experience Japanese culture and history while visiting a garden, castles, and a temple.
For lunch, enjoy local food and experience Aichi through its flavors as well.
Together with Day 1, this itinerary should let you fully enjoy the charms of Aichi without missing a thing.
8:05am Start from Meitetsu Nagoya Station
Day 2 begins by taking a train from Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Inuyama Station.
From the station, it is Approx. 20 minutes on foot to Inuyama Castle.
9:10am Take in a Panoramic View of Nagoya and the Surrounding Area from the Keep of Inuyama Castle
The keep, one of only five in Japan designated as a National Treasure, is famous for being said to be the oldest surviving one and for having the features of an early watchtower-style keep.
It is said to have been built in 1537 during the Muromachi period by Oda Nobuyasu, the uncle of Oda Nobunaga.
It is a “ushiro-kengo no shiro,” or a well-fortified castle, built on a small hill with the Kiso River protecting its rear.
Take a walk around this famous castle, which, together with its castle town, became an important center for trade, politics, and the economy.
10:10am Experience Tea Ceremony Culture and Refined Beauty at Urakuen
After exploring Inuyama Castle, head to Urakuen, about a 5-minute walk away.
Urakuen is a Japanese garden with several teahouses, including Joan, which is designated as a National Treasure.
At a teahouse called Koan, you can actually enjoy Japanese sweets and tea, so this is a great place to experience the tea ceremony and a uniquely Japanese sense of refinement for yourself.
Take a short break while gazing at the beautiful, greenery-filled garden and soothe your travel fatigue.
12:50pm Reflect on the Life of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Okazaki Castle
After visiting Urakuen, return to Inuyama Station and head to Higashi-Okazaki Station.
From the station, it is about a 15-minute walk to Okazaki Castle, a famous castle associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Known as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the Three Great Unifiers alongside Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it is also called “Tatsuki Castle.”
Okazaki Castle has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles and is highly valued for its historical and cultural importance.
Even if you do not know much about castles or history, there are many highlights to enjoy, so take your time exploring it.
1:50pm Enjoy Traditional Flavors for Lunch at Okazaki Kakukyu Hatcho Mura
After enjoying the charms of the famous castle, walk 3 minutes to Okazaki Kakukyu Hatcho Mura.
At Okazaki Kakukyu Hatcho Mura, you can tour storehouses where Hatcho miso is made, as well as a museum.
Hatcho miso is a kind of miso that originated in Okazaki City.
There is also a restaurant on site, where you can try miso udon made with Hatcho miso, making it a perfect lunch spot.
Enjoy the rich aroma and deep flavor of traditional Hatcho miso.
2:50pm Stroll Through the Solemn Grounds of Daijuji Temple
Walk to the nearest station, Naka-Okazaki Station on the Aichi Loop Railway, and from there head to Daimon Station.
From the station, it is about a 10-minute walk to Daijuji Temple.
Inside the grounds beyond its stately temple gate are the main hall, the Tahoto Pagoda designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and a bell tower.
The grounds also have plenty of nature, allowing you to feel the beautiful harmony between historic architecture and the natural surroundings.
Ghibli Park, a Noteworthy New Spot to Know Before Traveling to Aichi
Ghibli Park opened in 2022, and its new area Valley of Witches opened in 2024.
This notable spot inside Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, where you can immerse yourself in the worlds of Studio Ghibli works, is also worth considering for your travel plans.
Ghibli Park is made up of five areas: Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches.
Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse is a space packed with “Ghibli,” including exhibition rooms, special exhibits, shops, and cafes.
In the other areas as well, you can fully immerse yourself in the worlds of Ghibli works.
3 Local Foods You Must Try on an Aichi Trip
From here, let’s take a carefully selected look at some of the local dishes especially recommended from among Aichi’s many regional specialties.
With so many local foods to enjoy along with its sightseeing spots, it would be a waste not to enjoy the cuisine of Aichi.
1. Hitsumabushi
Hitsumabushi is a dish that originated in Aichi, made by grilling eel, placing it over rice, and eating it by serving portions into a bowl.
One of its main features is its slightly unique way of eating.
The first bowl is eaten as is so you can directly enjoy the flavor of the eel, while the second is eaten with condiments such as green onions and wasabi to enjoy added flavor.
For the third bowl, broth or tea is poured over it together with the condiments to enjoy it as ochazuke.
The charm of hitsumabushi lies in being able to enjoy three different tastes by dividing it into three servings.
2. Miso Katsu
Miso katsu is said to have originated in Nagoya and is a local dish that could be called one of Aichi’s signature foods.
It is made by pouring a sweet sauce based on Hatcho miso, a specialty of Aichi, over tonkatsu.
The sauce often includes bonito broth as well, giving it a rich aroma and deep flavor.
Its gentle sweetness, different from ordinary sauce, makes it easier to eat than it may look.
You will also be glad to know that many places serve miso katsu, from reasonably priced chain restaurants to upscale establishments, giving you plenty of chances to try it.
3. Kishimen
Kishimen are flat udon noodles, often served with a richly flavored broth made from seafood stock.
Because they have a larger surface area than regular udon, the broth soaks into the noodles more easily.
That is why you can taste the flavor of the broth more strongly.
Kishimen are smooth and easy to slurp, and because they are softer and less chewy, they are easy for older people and children to eat as well.
Kishimen are said to have originated from flat noodles called himokawa in Kariya City, and today they have become a soul food enjoyed throughout Aichi.
Cherry Blossom Spots You Should Visit on a Spring Trip to Aichi
Aichi may have a strong image as home to the major city of Nagoya, but it also has many areas rich in nature.
That means there are also many places where you can enjoy cherry blossoms, so if you are traveling to Aichi in spring, you should add famous cherry blossom spots to your itinerary.
Tsuruma Park, one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, is one of Aichi’s representative cherry blossom destinations.
You can stroll through its open space filled with Approx. 750 blooming cherry trees.
Okazaki Park is also one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, where Approx. 800 cherry trees color Okazaki Castle.
Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s National Treasures, is also popular as a cherry blossom spot, with Approx. 400 cherry trees blooming near the Kiso River.
Please refer to the table below for the usual flowering date, full bloom date, and best viewing period for cherry blossoms.
Please note that the flowering date, full bloom date, and best viewing period vary depending on the year’s climate, temperatures, and the specific spot.
- Flowering Date
- March 24
- Full Bloom Date
- April 2
- Best Viewing Period for Cherry Blossoms
- April 2–April 8
Reference: Japan Meteorological Agency Cherry Blossom Flowering Status
Reference: Japan Meteorological Agency Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Status
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Aichi for Stunning Autumn Views
Aichi has many famous spots for fall foliage as well, so if you visit in autumn, be sure to add them to your itinerary.
The most famous fall foliage spot is Korankei.
In autumn, Approx. 4,000 trees turn brilliant shades of color.
During the Korankei Momiji Festival, usually held in November, the leaves are also illuminated at night, letting you enjoy a magical autumn scene.
Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens is another recommended spot, where Approx. 500 deciduous trees in red and yellow color the grounds. A highlight is the reflection of the foliage on the pond’s surface, making it a great photo spot as well.
Inuyama Jakkoin Temple, where you can enjoy autumn leaves alongside solemn buildings, is another place not to miss.
Take a stroll through the grounds colored by Approx. 1,000 vivid autumn leaves.
Many of Aichi’s famous fall foliage spots are best visited from early November to early December.
However, please note that the best viewing time varies depending on the year’s climate, temperatures, and the specific spot.
FAQ about Traveling to Aichi
Q
What is the best season to travel to Aichi?
A
Autumn is recommended, as Aichi has famous fall foliage spots known throughout Japan.
Q
What sightseeing spots in Aichi are recommended for a family trip with children?
A
Nagoya Port Aquarium and Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens are recommended.
Summary
This article has introduced transportation information, local food, the charms and highlights of each sightseeing area, and a model course visiting popular sightseeing spots, all of which are helpful to know when traveling to Aichi.
If you plan your trip using this article as a guide, you should be able to fully enjoy all that Aichi has to offer.
The article below introduces Aichi’s classic and popular sightseeing spots in more depth.
When planning your trip, be sure to use it together with this article as a reference.