Travel
Discover Aichi Your gateway to Japan’s rich culture and historical charm
Aichi Tourism Promotion Office
March 5, 2025
Authentic Experiences Focusing on the Aesthetics of SAMURAI (Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
Curated Local Experiences for the Discerning Traveler
AICHI PREFECTURE, JAPAN – 4 March 2025 – Aichi Prefecture, located in the heart of Japan, offers a remarkable blend of rich culture, deep history, and modern attractions, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a unique and memorable travel experience. With just a 100-minute Shinkansen ride from Tokyo, 35 minutes from Kyoto, and 50 minutes from Shin-Osaka, Aichi provides unparalleled convenience for travelers looking to explore Japan’s diverse offerings.
In this issue, discover a curated selection of local travel experiences from regional suppliers. Whether available through OTAs or tailored for luxury travelers, these thoughtfully crafted experiences—from essential activities to exclusive high-end experiences—are sure to elevate your Aichi adventure. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Luxury Offerings from Local Suppliers
First, we’ll highlight some exclusive luxury experiences from local suppliers that are designed to enhance your experience in Aichi.
Authentic Experiences Focusing on the Aesthetics of SAMURAI
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
For those seeking an exclusive journey into the spirituality and aesthetics of samurai, this tour is an absolute must. Explore Aichi’s historic shrines and castles, each connected to the powerful samurai lords who shaped Japan’s history. Begin at Atsuta Jingu Shrine, where you’ll connect with the spirit of these influential figures, then continue to Nagoya Castle, once the home of samurai rulers, to witness their disciplined lifestyle.
A highlight of the tour is a special performance by the 22nd Headmaster of Yagyu Shinkage-ryu, a revered martial art with centuries of history. Visitors have the rare opportunity to witness the techniques and spirit that have been passed down through generations, while also engaging in a hands-on experience of the Yagyu Shinkage-ryu tradition. This immersive journey provides a rare opportunity to connect with the samurai spirit and delve into Japan’s rich martial heritage.
For more details on this tour, please contact Xperisus (info@xperisus.com).
Private Cruise Overlooking the Inuyama Castle
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
If you’re looking to spend a peaceful afternoon, embark on a relaxing and truly exclusive journey with a private cruise offering stunning views of Inuyama Castle, a designated national treasure. Glide along the Kiso River and enjoy a unique perspective of one of Japan’s oldest wooden castles, dating back to the early 17th century. While unwinding on the boat, indulge in kappo-style dining, featuring expertly crafted dishes made with local ingredients and seasonal flavors, perfectly paired with premium local sake. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the castle’s rich history and its significance during the samurai era, transporting you to Japan’s deep past.
After disembarking, continue with a leisurely stroll through the historic Inuyama Castle Town, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through charming streets, immersing you in the town’s cultural heritage. This experience offers an unforgettable journey through Aichi’s captivating landscape, exquisite cuisine, and deep cultural legacy.
For more details on this tour, please contact Xperisus (info@xperisus.com).
Nishio Matcha Experience: From Plantation to Ceremony with a Master
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
Tea enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Japanese experience will find Aichi’s Nishio region a fascinating destination. Renowned for its high-quality matcha, Nishio rivals Kyoto’s Uji region as one of Japan’s leading producers. This exclusive experience delves into the 800-year history of Nishio Matcha and its meticulous production process.
Start by visiting local tea plantations, observing the techniques used from shading to grinding. One of the standout experiences is the opportunity to grind matcha with a traditional stone mill, connecting you with the craft. Under the guidance of a tea ceremony master, learn the art of matcha preparation, exploring the nuances of flavor, color, and texture. The experience ends with a tasting comparison, allowing you to savor your own matcha alongside expertly prepared matcha by the master.
For more details on this tour, please contact kokusai-kanko@pref.aichi.lg.jp.
Private Viewing of Toyohashi’s Traditional Tezutsu Fireworks
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
Originating in Toyohashi City, Tezutsu fireworks offer a thrilling and daring display that showcases the bravery of the handlers. Unlike traditional fireworks, Tezutsu involves holding a firework tube close to the body, igniting a massive pillar of fire, culminating in a thunderous eruption of flames known as hane at the handler’s feet.
Tailored for an exclusive and luxurious viewing, this unparalleled experience lets you immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and raw power of Tezutsu fireworks in a private setting. Gain rare insight into Aichi’s cultural tradition while creating lasting memories and deepening your connection to the timeless artistry of Japan’s traditional fireworks.
For more details on this tour, please contact kokusai-kanko@pref.aichi.lg.jp.
Local Experiences Available on Viator
Next, take a look at some remarkable experiences available for booking on Viator, offering a unique way to explore the treasures of Aichi.
Toyokawa Inari Sushi Cooking Class (Toyokawa City)
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
If you are eager to explore Japan’s culinary traditions, the Toyokawa Inari Sushi Cooking Class offers a unique, hands-on experience. Guided by skilled chefs from a historic 188-year-old Japanese restaurant, participants will learn to make Toyokawa’s famous Inari sushi. This dish, which consists of sushi rice packed into sweetened fried tofu pouches, has deep roots in the region and is closely linked to Toyokawa Inari, one of the three major Inari sanctuaries.
With over 11 ingredients to choose from, participants can create their own personalized variations of this simple yet flavorful dish. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that all guests can savor the experience. This class provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich food culture while crafting a delicious, traditional meal.
This tour is available for booking through the link.
Sake & Seasonal Delights Sake Pairing Lunch at the Brewery
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
For those interested in a deep dive into Japan’s sake culture, this exclusive tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Japan’s largest wooden sake brewery buildings. With over 200 years of brewing history, the Ito Goshi Company ceased operations about 20 years ago but was revitalized in 2021 by its ninth-generation successor, transforming it into a unique space for food, sake, and events.
During the tour, you’ll gain access to areas not open to the public, learning about the brewery’s rich heritage. The experience includes a sake tasting of brews made on-site, perfectly paired with a seasonal lunch featuring fresh ingredients from the Chita Peninsula. There’s also a mocktail pairing available, so you can enjoy it alcohol-free as well. This enriching experience beautifully combines history, culture, and exceptional flavors, offering a true taste of Japan’s sake legacy.
This tour is available for booking through the link.
Pottery Footpath Walk Guide Tour (Tokoname City)
(Aichi Tourism Promotion Office)
Tokoname City, known for being the oldest of the Six Ancient Kilns in Japan, is deeply rooted in the country’s long and celebrated pottery history. In this historic city, visitors can take part in an immersive experience that offers the rare opportunity to explore Tokoname’s rich pottery heritage with a local ceramic artist as their guide.
Strolling along the scenic Yakimono Sampo Michi (Pottery Footpath), participants will wander through a street filled with brick-constructed kilns and chimneys, traditional black-walled factories, and a sloping road lined with walls of refuse pottery. This unique setting captures the feeling of the past and offers an atmosphere that can only be found in Tokoname.
This tour is available for booking through the link.
Conclusion
Aichi Prefecture offers a remarkable variety of experiences, from traditional crafts and samurai adventures to luxurious, exclusive activities. Whether you’re seeking to explore the rich culture, savor authentic cuisine, or indulge in a private, high-end experience, Aichi has something to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Aichi, where every moment is rich with culture, history, and luxury.
For more exciting experiences and products unique to Aichi, check out Aichi Now.
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