The 10-hour day tour from Nagoya takes travelers on a captivating journey through Japan’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From exploring the iconic Inuyama Castle to immersing in the charming Edo-period towns of Magome and Tsumago, this comprehensive excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the cultural gems that lie beyond Nagoya’s bustling city center. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s timeless allure.
Key Points
- A 10-hour day trip from Nagoya covering Inuyama Castle, Ena Gorge, Magome-juku, and Tsumago-juku, priced at €74.83 per person with free cancellation.
- Guided tours and free time at each location, with a 1.5-hour stop at Magome-juku for lunch.
- Inuyama Castle offers insights into its unique architecture and panoramic views, while Ena Gorge showcases natural rock formations.
- Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku provide opportunities to experience Japan’s cultural heritage through well-preserved traditional architecture and the Nakasendo Trail.
- The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Nagoya and a meeting point at a convenience store near Nagoya Station.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Nagoya, giving visitors the opportunity to explore several historic and scenic destinations.
Priced at €74.83 per person, the 10-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation from Nagoya Station and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary covers Inuyama Castle, Ena Gorge, Magome-juku, and Tsumago-juku, with guided tours and free time.
Highlights include the architecture of Inuyama Castle, the natural beauty of Ena Gorge, and the well-preserved historical sites along the Nakasendo Road.
The tour includes an English, Japanese, and Chinese-speaking guide, but dining and personal expenses are excluded.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the Ministop convenience store near Nagoya Station, where you will meet their guide.
From there, the group will travel by bus to Inuyama Castle, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and explore the historic site for about an hour.
Next, they’ll head to Ena Gorge, spending 30 minutes admiring the natural rock formations.
The tour then continues to Magome-juku, where travelers can enjoy lunch and free time for 1.5 hours.
Finally, they’ll visit Tsumago-juku, participate in a guided tour, and have free time before the 2-hour return journey to Nagoya Station.
Inuyama Castle
One of Japan’s twelve ancient castles, Inuyama Castle was built during the Muromachi Shogunate period.
Known for its unique architecture, the castle has 3 floors on the outside and 4 floors on the inside.
Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and interiors, admiring the original wooden construction and taking in panoramic views from the top.
The guided tour provides insights into the castle’s history and significance, allowing travelers to appreciate this well-preserved feudal landmark.
With its striking design and strategic location, Inuyama Castle offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich architectural and historical heritage.
Ena Gorge
After exploring the impressive Inuyama Castle, the tour moves on to the scenic Ena Gorge. This man-made lake, formed by the Kiso River and Oi Dam, is known for its unique rock formations and changing beauty with the seasons. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting and observe the natural wonders of the gorge.
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring | Vibrant greenery, blooming flowers |
| Summer | Turquoise waters, lush vegetation |
| Autumn | Stunning fall foliage, crisp air |
The 30-minute stop at Ena Gorge provides a peaceful respite before continuing the journey to the historic post towns of Magome and Tsumago.
More Great Tours NearbyMagome-juku
Following the tour’s visit to the captivating Ena Gorge, the journey continues to the historical site of Magome-juku.
This post town along the Nakasendo Road is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including stone-paved streets and wooden buildings. Visitors can stroll through the charming town, exploring the historic atmosphere and local shops.
Magome-juku offers a glimpse into Japan’s past, with the opportunity to experience the country’s cultural heritage. The town’s tranquil setting and scenic hiking trails make it a highlight of the tour, providing a peaceful respite from the modern world.
Tsumago-juku
From the tranquil Magome-juku, the tour then proceeds to the charming post town of Tsumago-juku.
Known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, Tsumago-juku offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Highlights include:
- Hiking the Nakasendo Trail, a historic mountain route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto.
- Exploring the town’s traditional wooden buildings and stone-paved streets.
- Visiting the Tsumago Honjin, a former inn for feudal lords, now a museum.
With its serene atmosphere and cultural significance, Tsumago-juku provides a fitting conclusion to this immersive day trip through the scenic Kiso Valley.
What’s Included
The tour package includes round-trip bus transportation from Nagoya Station, as well as an admission ticket to Inuyama Castle.
A live tour guide proficient in English, Japanese, and Chinese accompanies the group throughout the day.
Dining expenses and personal costs aren’t included, so participants should bring cash for lunch and any additional purchases.
The tour provides a convenient way to explore the historical sites, natural landscapes, and traditional towns without the hassle of planning individual transportation.
Important Information
The meeting point for the tour is behind the BIC CAMERA store at the West Exit of Nagoya Station.
Customers should wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, water, cash, and dress appropriately for the weather. This will ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience during the tour.
The tour guide provides live commentary in English, Japanese, and Chinese, though reviews suggest mixed feedback on language accommodations.
Regardless, the diverse highlights of Inuyama Castle, Ena Gorge, Magome-juku, and Tsumago-juku make this a must-see day trip from Nagoya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour operator offers private group options, allowing you to customize the itinerary and enjoy a personalized experience with your friends or family.
Do You Provide Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options?
The tour does not currently offer vegetarian or halal meal options. However, the guide can assist in finding suitable dining options in the tour locations that accommodate dietary restrictions, if requested in advance.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. Pricing is a flat rate of €74.83 per person, regardless of age or student status. Contact the tour operator for any potential special offers or promotions.
Can I Leave the Tour Group During Free Time?
Yes, participants can leave the tour group during the free time allotted at Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku. However, they are responsible for rejoining the group at the designated meeting time and location to continue the tour.
Do You Offer Any Additional Guided Activities at the Stops?
Yes, the tour offers guided activities at each stop. At Inuyama Castle, there’s a guided tour. In Magome-juku, there’s free time for lunch and exploration. At Tsumago-juku, a guided tour and free time are provided.
The Sum Up
This tour from Nagoya offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing Japan’s history and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the iconic Inuyama Castle, marvel at the scenic Ena Gorge, and wander through the well-preserved Edo-period towns of Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku. Priced at €74.83, the tour provides an enriching and convenient way to discover the region’s heritage and beauty.
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