A Fun Car Tour to Inuyama Castle and a Phallus

A Fun Car Tour to Inuyama Castle and a Phallus offers an excellent balance of history, local culture, and offbeat sights for those visiting Nagoya. Priced at $160 per person, this private day trip lasts about 8 to 9 hours, with a focus on comfort, insider knowledge, and authentic experiences. Led by a knowledgeable guide, Hiro, the tour takes you through a series of carefully chosen stops — from ancient castles to quaint streets, tranquil gardens, and a rather cheeky shrine.

What makes this experience truly stand out? First, the personal touch of having a private guide who genuinely cares about your comfort and curiosity — as one review highlights, Hiro was considered and attentive throughout. Second, the chance to wear a kimono or yukata while wandering charming streets adds a layer of fun and immersion that few tours offer.

One potential consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of driving (about 2 hours round trip to Nagoya and back), so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some transit time. Also, while many stops are free or included, lunch and some optional activities like shopping or riding a rickshaw are extra.

Ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone eager to see a side of Japan beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers a rich blend of sights, stories, and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and transportation ensure a comfortable, tailored journey.
• Diverse Stops: From Japan’s oldest castle to a quirky Penis Shrine, the itinerary is unique and engaging.
• Cultural Touches: Wear traditional attire, enjoy green tea in a beautiful garden, and explore traditional streets.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share stories and answer questions about Japan, enriching your understanding.
• Value for Price: Includes admission to key sites, transport, and a memorable photo/video package.
• Consideration: The long driving stretches might not suit those seeking a more relaxed pace.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with a pickup arranged from your hotel, cruise ship, or private residence in Nagoya. The private van, equipped with WiFi, ensures a smooth ride through scenic routes toward Inuyama. We appreciated how Hiro kept us comfortable and informed during the 2-hour transfer — he even shared some local tips along the way. This setup allows you to relax and focus on the journey rather than navigation or logistics.

Inuyama Castle: The Historic Jewel

The highlight for many is Inuyama Castle, Japan’s oldest mountain castle, built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu, the uncle of the famed Oda Nobunaga. Standing atop a hill, the castle offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and a fascinating glimpse into the samurai era. Entrance is included in the tour fee, and Hiro took the time to explain the castle’s architecture, its strategic significance, and stories of former residents.

Visitors love the chance to walk through centuries-old wooden structures, climb the watchtower, and imagine life as a feudal lord. One review notes, “We loved the way Hiro explained the history while letting us soak in the views.” The atmosphere is quiet, almost timeless, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.

Sanko Inari Shrine: A Sacred Introduction

Descending from the castle, the tour stops at Sanko Inari Shrine, located at the castle’s base. This shrine has a storied past and is renowned for its connection to local spiritual practices. The hike up the sacred grounds offers a peaceful break before heading to the next site. Since admission here is free, it’s an excellent chance to enjoy some quiet contemplation or snap pictures of the stone lanterns and vermilion torii gates.

Inuyama Jokamachi: Strolling through Castle Town

Next, you’ll wander the Inuyama Jokamachi, the historic street leading to the castle. Here, you can choose to wear a kimono or yukata, adding a lively and authentic touch to your stroll. The street is lined with traditional shops, cafes, and eateries, giving a snapshot of local life. You might browse handcrafted souvenirs, savor freshly made wagashi (Japanese sweets), or simply enjoy the charming architecture.

One traveler remarked, “Wearing a kimono made the whole experience more special; it felt like stepping back in time.” Hiro offers tips on where to rent attire and encourages visitors to take photos in this picturesque setting.

Urakuen Garden: Green Tea and Serenity

A highlight for tea lovers is the visit to Urakuen Garden, home to the renowned tea house Jo-an. This tranquil space was created specifically as a setting for tea ceremonies, and you get to enjoy a traditional matcha green tea with wagashi in a beautiful, historic garden. It’s a moment of calm amidst the busy day, and the setting is perfect for reflection or photos. The admission fee for the tea ceremony is included, making this a wonderful cultural experience.

Tagata Jinja: The Quirky Shrine

After the garden, the tour heads to Tagata Jinja in nearby Komaki. Famous for its annual Haro Festival, where giant wooden phalluses are carried through the streets, this small shrine nods to fertility and prosperity. It’s an unconventional and fun stop that often surprises visitors. Many find it humorous and insightful, adding a layer of understanding about local customs and beliefs. The best part? It’s free to visit, and you can take some memorable photos.

Optional Stop and Shopping

Before concluding the tour, Hiro offers to stop at a local supermarket or any shop you wish — perfect for stocking up on souvenirs, snacks, or necessities. This flexibility helps personalize the experience and gives you a chance to pick up anything you might have missed earlier.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

This tour shines because it’s designed to offer more than just sightseeing — it’s about understanding Japan from a local’s perspective. Hiro’s knowledge and friendly manner make complex histories approachable, and his attention to detail enhances the overall value. You’ll love how he captures your memories with photos and videos, giving you keepsakes to cherish.

The inclusion of admission fees, tea ceremony, and private transportation makes this a good value for the price, especially considering the personalized service. However, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to budget extra for a meal either on-site or in the charming streets of Jokamachi.

One recurring praise from past guests is how Hiro took care of their comfort: “He took extra effort to make sure we were doing alright and was comfortable throughout our tour,” shares one review. Many appreciated the flexibility and the chance to tailor certain parts of the day, like choosing to wear traditional attire or having a relaxed lunch.

The Experience at a Glance

• Transport & Comfort: Private, air-conditioned van with WiFi ensures a smooth and stress-free journey.
• Historical & Cultural Highlights: Inuyama Castle, Sanko Inari Shrine, Urakuen Garden, and Tagata Jinja provide a well-rounded cultural experience.
• Authentic Touches: Kimono/yukata rentals and traditional tea ceremony add immersive elements.
• Memory-Making: Photos and videos captured by the guide allow you to take home tangible memories.
• Flexibility & Personalization: Optional shopping stops and the possibility to customize certain activities enhance overall satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers with an interest in Japan’s historical sites, traditional culture, and quirky local customs. It suits those who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid large group tours. If you’re eager to dress in traditional attire, enjoy green tea in a serene garden, and explore a castle that predates many others in Japan, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s especially suited for history buffs, culture seekers, and curious travelers looking for an engaging, thoughtful day outside Nagoya’s urban bustle. Given the positive reviews about Hiro’s hospitality and knowledge, you’ll also benefit from a guide who genuinely enjoys sharing Japan’s lesser-known treasures.

Final Thoughts

This private car tour offers an authentic and well-rounded glimpse of Japan’s history, traditions, and humor, all wrapped up in a comfortable, personalized package. The combination of Japan’s oldest castle, quaint streets, beautiful gardens, and the playful Penis Shrine makes for a memorable day that’s both educational and fun.

For those who value culture, expert guidance, and flexible itineraries, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s a chance to see Japan through the eyes of a local, learn stories that aren’t in the guidebooks, and have a few laughs along the way.

While it involves some driving and optional expenses for food and souvenirs, the overall value and the richness of experiences make it worthwhile. If you’re in Nagoya and eager for a day that balances history, culture, and a touch of the quirky, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized day.

What’s included in the price?
Admission to Inuyama Castle and Urakuen Garden, the tea ceremony, private transportation, parking fees, WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and complimentary photos/videos.

How long does the tour take?
The total duration is about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am, including all stops and travel time.

Can I wear traditional clothes?
Yes, you can wear a kimono or yukata while exploring the streets, making for memorable photos and an authentic feel.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guide can suggest nearby restaurants or you can bring a lunch box to enjoy during the walk.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour functions year-round, most travelers find spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) particularly beautiful, though the experience is enjoyable any season.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Yes, the guide offers to stop at shops or supermarkets on the way back for shopping or convenience, and some activities can be tailored to your preferences.

This detailed review should help you decide if this day trip from Nagoya is the right fit for your travel plans. It’s a chance to enjoy Japan’s history and quirkiness with a friendly guide who makes every stop memorable.