Aichi Prefecture offers a surprisingly diverse range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring Nagoya’s bustling streets, learning about traditional crafts, or savoring local flavors, Aichi has it all. The tours listed below highlight some of the best ways to learn about the region—each with its own unique appeal. Of particular note is the Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour, which gives you the freedom to personalize your visit, and the Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour, perfect for those with limited time but big interests.
Two standout experiences include the Full Day Hiking Tour to Mt. Horaiji for nature lovers eager to climb a mountain with over 1,300 years of history, and the Create Your Own Glass Cup and See Seto’s Lucky Cats for those wanting to get hands-on with Japanese craftsmanship.
1. Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
Swap the crowds and rigid group schedules for a totally personalized day exploring Nagoya. This full-day walking tour is tailored exactly to your interests—whether that’s Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, or diving into local food. The private guide will pick you up from your accommodation, making logistics hassle-free. Highlights include the iconic Nagoya Castle with its golden shachihoko on the roof, the serene Atsuta Shrine, and the Nagoya TV Tower—all with the flexibility to change the plan as you go. Several reviewers, like “Ryo,” praise the guide’s deep knowledge and friendly approach, making the city’s stories come alive. At $143.47 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a fully customized experience.
Bottom Line: If you want to see Nagoya your way, this private tour offers tailored storytelling and flexibility, ideal for those who dislike cookie-cutter itineraries.
2. Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
For travelers short on time but still eager to see Nagoya’s highlights, this half-day private tour hits the key sites without feeling rushed. The tour lets you choose from options like Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, or the Toyota Museum—the latter only if it’s open. Your guide will lead the way, ensuring you don’t get lost and can focus on what interests you most. Guests mention guides like Elvis, who customizes the itinerary and helps navigate the subway system smoothly. At just over $97, this tour offers a flexible, intimate way to explore Nagoya’s essentials with personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a tailored experience, this tour balances flexibility with a focus on what truly interests you.
3. Nagoya Super Market Tour & Home Cooking Class with a Local, Akiko
If you’re passionate about food, this combination supermarket tour and cooking class is a highlight. Akiko, your host, takes you shopping in a local market to pick out ingredients like Nagoya-style red miso and tempura shrimp. Then, in her home, you’ll learn to prepare signature dishes such as Nagoya fried chicken and miso stew. The experience includes a chance to buy local ingredients and take home recipes—great for foodies who want an authentic taste of the region. Reviewers love how Akiko’s warmth makes the experience memorable, praising her teaching skills and the delicious results.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culinary travelers who want a hands-on, authentic meal and insight into Nagoya’s local ingredients.
4. Guiged Brewing Tour and Workshop Local Lunch
Beer lovers will appreciate this brewery tour and workshop with a passionate local brewer. The visit begins at Asakura Station, followed by a walk through Okada’s streets, where you explore local life firsthand. The highlight is the OKD Kominka Brewing experience, where you’ll see how craft beer is made and enjoy a local lunch with unlimited access to craft beers from OKD and international brews. The tour offers a glimpse into Japan’s small-scale brewing scene and is rated highly for its personal touch. The $109.34 price includes the brewery visit and lunch, but note that beer tasting is not available if you’re driving or under 20.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beer enthusiasts seeking a local, authentic brewing experience combined with a tasty meal.
5. Famous Inari Sushi Making Experience in Toyokawa
Learn to make Inari sushi, Toyokawa’s specialty, in this fun and relaxed workshop. Supervised by chefs from a restaurant with 188 years of history, you’ll craft your own sushi with over 11 ingredients, getting a true taste of local cuisine. The session includes miso soup, tofu, coffee, and dessert—all enjoyed in a cozy setting. For just $30.75, it’s a fantastic value for a hands-on cultural experience. Reviewers note how the chef’s guidance made it easy and fun, making this a great choice for families or solo travelers wanting to learn Japanese cooking traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies eager to try making a regional specialty and enjoy an authentic, home-style meal.
6. Explore Holy Mt. Horaiji Private Tour
This private tour takes you up Mt. Horaiji, a sacred mountain with legends stretching back over 1,300 years. You’ll visit the Gyoshagoe cliff path, Niomon Gate, and enjoy panoramic views from the Takauchiba Lookout. The tour includes a bento lunch and visits to sacred sites associated with samurai legends. The 6-hour experience is ideal for history enthusiasts or those who appreciate spiritual sites. The guide shares stories about the mountain’s significance, providing a deeper understanding of local beliefs. At $228.02 per group, it offers an immersive cultural experience with a focus on legends and nature.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity, history, and spiritual insight in a private setting.
7. Create Your Own Glass Cup and See Seto’s Lucky Cats in Japan
Get creative by making your own glassware in a professional workshop, a true hands-on experience. You’ll also visit Seto, famous for its lucky cats (Maneki Neko), where you can see hundreds of cats and learn about their symbolism. This 3-hour experience costs $98.22 and is perfect for art lovers or those wishing to craft a unique souvenir. The guide helps ensure your creations are special, making this a memorable activity for all ages. It’s a unique way to connect with Japan’s craftsmanship while taking a personalized keepsake home.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for creative souls wanting a tangible memory of their trip.
$98.22 per person
8. Private Nagoya-Style Japanese Cooking Class in Kasugai with Akiko
Join Akiko in her home for an intimate cooking class focused on Nagoya-style dishes like miso stew, tempura, and onigiri. This 3-hour experience includes hands-on preparation and a shared meal, providing a genuine glimpse into local cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic culinary connection, as well as insight into daily life in Nagoya. Past participants praise Akiko’s warm hospitality and the quality of the dishes. The $110 fee covers the class and the meal, making it good value for a personal, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and cultural explorers wanting to learn home-style Japanese cooking.
$110.00 per person
9. Korankei and Obara Bus Tour Papermaking Experience Course
This full-day bus tour explores Korankei, famous for its autumn leaves, and Obara, known for rare Shikizakura cherry blossoms in fall. The highlight is the papermaking experience in Obara Washi, where you learn traditional Japan craft techniques. The tour also visits scenic spots for leaf viewing and illuminations. Rated for its excellent guides and well-paced itinerary, it balances nature and culture seamlessly. At $78.41, it’s an affordable way to see two major sights, with a craft activity that provides a lasting memory.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a mix of outdoor beauty, cultural craft, and local scenery in a single day.
$78.41 per person
10. Full Day Hiking Tour to Mt. Horaiji
For outdoor enthusiasts, this full-day hike offers a challenging ascent of Mt. Horaiji, with over 1,300 years of spiritual significance. Starting at Omotesando, you’ll climb 1,425 stone steps, soaking in views of Mikawa Bay and exploring sacred sites along the way. The tour includes a bento lunch and an opportunity to experience the mountain’s natural and spiritual history firsthand. Rated 4.5/5, it’s suited for fit travelers eager for both adventure and cultural insight. The price of $213.94 per group makes it a rewarding day for active explorers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers looking to combine hiking with cultural discovery amid stunning scenery.
11. Kimono, Tea ceremony and Shodo in Kimono School
Dress up in traditional kimono and participate in a tea ceremony and calligraphy session. This 3.5-hour private activity offers a deep dive into Japanese culture, with participants creating their own fans and enjoying Japanese sweets. The experience is intimate and suitable for all ages who can walk comfortably. While reviews are not yet available, the focus on wearing authentic kimono and participating in cultural arts makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an elegant, traditional experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers seeking an authentic kimono, tea, and calligraphy experience in a private setting.
$141.57 per person
12. Maneki Neko Museum Ticket+Special Grab Bag
This is a fun, quirky stop for fans of Japanese lucky cats. The Maneki Neko Museum hosts thousands of figurines, from antiques to modern designs, offering a playful look at this iconic symbol. The ticket includes a special grab bag of Maneki Neko goodies, making it a great souvenir shopping experience. For $55.99, it’s reasonably priced and offers a lighthearted cultural insight. Reviews are sparse, but the attraction’s uniqueness makes it a memorable addition to your trip.
Bottom Line: A playful option for those interested in Japanese symbols and a fun souvenir shopping experience.
$55.99 per person
13. Skip the Line Ticket to Sumo Morning Practice at Nagoya
Experience the power and discipline of sumo with this exclusive morning practice viewing. You’ll see sumo wrestlers in action, often up close, with the chance to take photos afterward. The guide manages logistics and helps you understand the techniques, making it accessible even for first-timers. The ticket is priced at $98.01, and the experience lasts about 2 hours. It’s a rare opportunity to glimpse a revered tradition that’s usually hidden behind closed doors.
Bottom Line: A must-do for fans of martial arts or those interested in Japanese tradition, offering an authentic glimpse into sumo culture.
$98.01 per person
14. Nagoya 2-Hour Genuine Samurai Experience Through Kendo
Step into the shoes of a samurai during this hands-on Kendo workshop. Led by an instructor with over 20 years of experience, you’ll learn sword techniques and participate in a tournament-style game. All equipment is included, and the class lasts around 2 hours. Participants rave about the practical guidance and the chance to experience a martial art that’s rarely accessible to outsiders. At $118.28, it’s a unique activity for those interested in samurai culture or martial arts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting an immersive, physical experience of Japanese martial arts.
$118.28 per person
15. Half Day Countryside Tour in Shinshiro Japan
Escape the city with this half-day countryside tour in Shinshiro. You’ll visit Atera Seven Water Falls, walk through a traditional village, participate in a green tea ceremony, and learn to make gohei mochi—a local rice cake specialty. The tour includes walking in scenic natural settings and sampling local sweets. It’s priced at $417, making it a more exclusive experience focused on rural life, perfect for travelers seeking authenticity away from tourist crowds.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want to see Japan’s countryside, learn local crafts, and enjoy a peaceful day outside city buzz.
$417
How to Choose the Best Tour in Aichi
When deciding among these options, consider your interests, budget, and time available. If you want a flexible, personalized exploration of Nagoya, the full-day private tour is unmatched in depth. Short on time? The half-day private provides a quick yet tailored overview. For food lovers, the home cooking class with Akiko and Inari sushi making experience are ideal. Nature enthusiasts should consider the full-day hike or the Korankei and Obara bus tour. For culture, activities like the kimono and tea ceremony or sumo practice tickets are excellent.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the private tours or the sumo session, which can fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Aichi offers a rich tapestry of experiences—whether you prefer cultural activities, outdoor adventures, or culinary explorations, there’s something for every type of traveler. The private tours stand out for their flexibility and depth, while hands-on craft experiences make your trip memorable. If you’re traveling with family, the glass-making or sushi workshops will captivate children and adults alike. For history and nature lovers, the hikes and sacred mountain tours provide meaningful insights and breathtaking views.
To make the most of your visit, consider your interests and time constraints. Booking ahead ensures you secure spots in these popular experiences. No matter what you choose, exploring Aichi will leave you with authentic memories—and perhaps a new skill or two to show off back home.