From Nagoya: Discover Aichi Korankei, Miso, & Inari Shrine

Discover Aichi: A Day of Temples, Nature, and Traditional Flavors

Imagine spending a day exploring the best of Aichi Prefecture without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. For $211, this small group tour guides you through a mix of iconic sights, authentic food, and hands-on crafts, all within about 8 hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide (we loved Naomi’s thoughtful commentary), you’ll visit the famous Toyokawa Inari Shrine with its thousands of stone fox statues, marvel at the vibrant autumn foliage in Korankei Gorge, learn how miso is made at a local factory, and walk through a charming, old-fashioned village.

Two things we especially appreciated: First, the opportunity to see the Toyokawa Inari with its endless sea of red bibs on fox statues — a truly photogenic and spiritual highlight. Second, the chance to taste bold, flavorful miso right at the source, which added a delicious, authentic touch to the day.

One consideration is the tour’s pace—it’s fairly packed, so if you prefer slow, leisurely mornings or want to linger longer at each site, this might feel a little rushed. But if you’re a traveler craving a well-rounded experience of natural beauty, tasty food, and cultural insight, this trip hits the mark.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Aichi in a single day: photographers eager for vibrant autumn landscapes, foodies curious about Japanese miso, or culture lovers interested in shrine traditions and crafts. It’s especially good for first-timers who want an overview without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines spirituality, nature, food, and craftsmanship
• Authentic experiences: Visit a major Inari shrine and see local artisans at work
• Beautiful scenery: Korankei Gorge offers stunning autumn foliage
• Tasty highlights: Miso factory tour and local street food, including Inari sushi
• Convenient logistics: All transportation and guiding included for a stress-free day
• Limited group size: Personal attention and fewer crowds

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Aichi with a Focus on Nature, Culture, and Food

If you’re after a day that covers a wide swath of what makes Aichi special, this tour is a thoughtful choice. From the moment we gathered outside Nagoya Station next to the iconic silver clock, the promise of a well-organized, engaging day was clear. The tour operates with a small group—just 14 travelers—which makes for a friendly, intimate atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and snapping photos without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Toyokawa Inari Shrine

We started early, hopping onto a comfortable coach for about 1.5 hours. Naomi, our guide, shared stories about Toyokawa Inari, one of Japan’s “Big 3 Inari shrines,” famed for its red gates, lively atmosphere, and the thousands of fox statues guarding the grounds. These foxes, wearing red bibs, look almost like a giant outdoor art installation. As Naomi explained, foxes are considered messengers of the Inari deity, and the shrine’s spiritual ambiance has a quiet, respectful energy.

We loved the way the shrine’s layout mixes nature with religion — the peaceful trees, the stone pathways, and the countless fox figures create perfect photo opportunities. Naomi’s tour included insights into the shrine’s history and how the Buddhist temple nearby adds layers to this spiritual site. There’s plenty of free time to wander, so don’t forget your camera.

Lunch and Shopping at Omotesando Street

Next, we enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Toyokawa’s Omotesando shopping street. This bustling yet charming street is famous for its Inari sushi, a sweet and savory dish made with rice tucked inside deep-fried tofu pockets. Naomi recommended trying this local specialty, which some say originated here. As one reviewer put it, “the Inari sushi was surprisingly delicious, a perfect blend of flavors.”

The street itself has a nostalgic feel, lined with small shops selling crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks. You might pick up a fox mask or a box of miso-based goodies — ideal souvenirs for friends back home.

Behind the Scenes at a Miso Factory

After lunch, the group headed to a miso factory — a key ingredient in Japanese cooking. The guide explained how miso is made and showed us the different types produced on-site. We appreciated how the factory tour was not just about tasting but also understanding the craft of fermentation. The miso here is bold and full of character, reflecting the flavors of the Nagoya region.

You’ll get to sample some miso directly from the vats, which offers a real taste of local tradition. Afterward, there’s free time to purchase miso products or enjoy a simple lunch on your own.

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Korankei Gorge: Nature’s Autumn Showstopper

The highlight for many is the Korankei Gorge, famous for its stunning display of over 4,000 maple trees. We arrived in the early afternoon and took a gentle walk along the river, soaking in the kaleidoscope of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The iconic Tomoebashi Bridge offers a perfect vantage point for photos — a shot that truly captures Japan’s autumn magic.

The natural beauty here is what makes this stop special. If you’re visiting during fall, this is one of Japan’s top spots for autumn foliage. The peaceful environment and vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes and camera alike.

Exploring Sanshu Asuke Yashiki Village

Our last stop was Sanshu Asuke Yashiki, a living museum that showcases traditional crafts. Watching artisans blacksmith, weave bamboo, and dye indigo was like stepping back in time. The village’s preserved buildings and crafts shops give a tangible sense of rural Japan’s heritage.

If you’re interested in handcrafted souvenirs, this village is a treasure trove. From straw sandals to handwoven baskets, you’ll find unique items that embody Japanese artisanal skills.

Final Return to Nagoya

After a full day of sights, tastes, and crafts, we headed back to Nagoya Station, arriving around 4:30 pm. The guide wrapped up with tips for exploring Nagoya further or heading home.

The Value of This Tour

At $211, this tour offers excellent value for a packed day of diverse experiences. The transportation, guiding, and entrance fees are included, saving you the hassle of planning each step. The small group size means more personal attention and fewer crowds, which enhances the quality of your experience.

While the pace is brisk, it’s a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Aichi’s highlights in a single day. The mix of natural scenery, spiritual sites, traditional crafts, and regional foods ensures there’s something for all—whether you’re a photographer, foodie, or cultural enthusiast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits curious travelers eager to see a little bit of everything in Aichi. If you enjoy scenic walks, like tasting regional specialties, and want to learn about local crafts and traditions, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially ideal for first-timers to Japan or those short on time but wanting a meaningful, balanced introduction to the area.

Note that the tour involves some walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, given the uneven terrain in some sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transport between sites is provided via coach, making the day stress-free.

How long is the bus ride between stops?
The longest ride is about 1.5 hours from Nagoya to Toyokawa, with shorter rides between other destinations.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but there is time to enjoy local street food and buy miso products.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of curiosity.

Does the tour run year-round?
While the itinerary is perfect for autumn foliage, check availability for other seasons — the sites are attractive year-round.

Can I buy souvenirs on the tour?
Absolutely. The shopping street and village shops offer handcrafted items and regional specialties.

Are there bathroom breaks during the tour?
Yes, each stop includes time for bathroom breaks and quick explorations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on the child, but generally, yes — especially if they enjoy outdoor walks and cultural sights.

What if I want to skip a site?
The guide provides free time at key stops so you can choose to explore more or relax.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate walking is involved, mostly on flat paths, but some sites have uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Nagoya offers a well-rounded glimpse into Aichi’s natural beauty, spiritual landmarks, traditional crafts, and regional cuisine. It’s designed for travelers who want to experience Japan’s layered culture without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. With a small group, personal attention, and a focus on authentic sights, it provides a genuine and memorable day out.

Whether you’re captivated by the thousands of fox statues at Toyokawa Inari, enchanted by the autumn colors in Korankei, or intrigued by the craftsmanship in the rural village, this tour balances photo-worthy moments with meaningful cultural insights. It’s a trip that leaves you with a deeper appreciation of Japan’s local flavors and traditions — perfect for making your visit truly special.

In short, if you’re after a day of scenic beauty, tasty eats, and cultural discovery, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a satisfying taste of Aichi.

You can check availability for your dates here: