A Fun Car Tour to Inuyama Castle and a Phallus

Setting out on a car tour to Inuyama Castle promises an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore the 16th-century architecture and admire the stunning views of the Kiso River. But the tour offers more than just the castle – it also includes a visit to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Urakuen Garden. What’s more, a unique and fascinating highlight awaits, as the tour introduces a curious phallus-shaped statue with a intriguing cultural significance. This delightful excursion promises to be a memorable adventure for all.

Contents show

Key Points

Explore the 16th-century Inuyama Castle, known for its stunning river views and intricate architecture.
Immerse in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the tranquil Urakuen Garden.
Savor a delightful local lunch, including sushi, tempura, or yakisoba, as part of the tour.
Experience seamless transportation and accessibility features for a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Discover the significance of the phallus-shaped statue during the tea ceremony, gaining insight into Japanese cultural traditions.

Exploring Inuyama Castle

After being picked up from your hotel or station in Nagoya, the tour will take you to the impressive Inuyama Castle.

Dating back to the 16th century, this hilltop castle offers stunning views of the Kiso River.

You’ll have the chance to explore the castle’s intricate architecture, including its donjon (keep) and various turrets.

As you wander the castle grounds, you’ll learn about its rich history and the powerful feudal lords who once called it home.

The tour provides ample time for you to take in the castle’s beauty and snap memorable photos.

Looking for more options in Nagoya? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Urakuen Garden Tea Ceremony

Following the tour of Inuyama Castle, the group heads to the serene Urakuen Garden for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Guests are ushered into a tranquil tea house, where a kimono-clad host performs the meticulous ritual. Guests observe the host’s precise movements as they prepare the matcha tea:

Step	Action
1	Cleanse the tea bowl
2	Whisk the tea powder into hot water
3	Present the tea to your
4	Guests enjoy the frothy, earthy beverage

The ceremony immerses participants in Japanese culture, offering a calming respite from the bustling day.

Lunchtime Delights

What delectable delights await the group during the lunchtime portion of the tour?

After exploring Inuyama Castle and participating in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, the group is sure to work up an appetite. The tour includes a delicious lunch, featuring a variety of local cuisine.

Expect to savor mouth-watering dishes, perhaps including sushi, tempura, or yakisoba. To complement the meal, the tour also provides alcoholic beverages, snacks, and bottled water.

As the group enjoys their lunchtime repast, they can reflect on the morning’s activities and look forward to the next stop on this exciting Nagoya adventure.

Indulging in Alcoholic Beverages

As the tour group savors the delectable local cuisine during their lunchtime repast, they can also indulge in a selection of alcoholic beverages provided as part of the tour.

The tour includes a variety of Japanese beers, wines, and sake, allowing participants to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage through its traditional libations.

Whether they prefer a crisp lager, a bold red wine, or a fragrant sake, the tour ensures that each guest can find a beverage to complement their mealtime experience.

This added perk enhances the overall enjoyment and culture of the Inuyama Castle excursion.

Snacks and Refreshments

Along With the alcoholic beverages, the tour also provides a selection of refreshing snacks and bottled water for participants to enjoy throughout the day.

The snacks may include:

Savory Japanese crackers
Fresh fruit
Granola bars
Bite-sized pastries

These snacks are meant to complement the sightseeing activities and provide a quick energy boost.

The bottled water ensures everyone stays hydrated, especially during the warmer months.

Together, the snacks and refreshments help make the tour a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

There's plenty more to explore in Nagoya

Capturing Memories

To commemorate the memorable experiences of the day, the tour includes a free video and photo package for participants.

Guests can capture special moments throughout the excursion, from the impressive Inuyama Castle to the serene Urakuen Garden. The tour guide ensures participants make the most of photo opportunities, guiding them to the best vantage points.

Afterward, the videos and photos are compiled into a keepsake memory to relive the highlights of the tour. This complimentary service allows guests to enjoy the experience without the burden of documenting every moment.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour provides seamless transportation, ensuring a hassle-free experience for guests. Travelers are picked up from any station or hotel within Nagoya, with a 9:00 AM start time.

The air-conditioned vehicle offers private transportation, complete with onboard WiFi. This convenience allows guests to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

The tour’s accessibility features further enhance the experience:

Stroller accessibility
Availability of infant seats
Allowance of service animals
Participation suitability for most travelers

With these thoughtful accommodations, the tour caters to diverse needs, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive exploration of Inuyama Castle and the surrounding areas.

The Phallus Experience

Why does the tour include a "Phallus Experience"?

The Urakuen Garden, one of the tour’s stops, is home to an unusual feature – a phallus-shaped statue. This statue is a symbol of fertility and good luck in Japanese culture.

During the tea ceremony, the guide will explain the significance of this intriguing artwork. Visitors can snap photos and learn about this unique cultural tradition.

While unexpected, the "Phallus Experience" offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage and provides an opportunity for travelers to broaden their understanding of the country’s customs and beliefs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Family-Friendly?

Based on the tour overview, this tour may not be entirely family-friendly. It includes alcoholic beverages, and the accessibility information doesn’t indicate if it’s suitable for young children. Families should consider the tour’s suitability before booking.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable, casual clothing is recommended for a full day of sightseeing and activities. Visitors should dress appropriately for visiting historic sites and participating in a traditional tea ceremony.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized to an extent. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour operator prior to booking, and the company may be able to accommodate certain changes within reason. However, the core elements of the tour are generally fixed.

Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?

The tour price covers all listed activities and amenities. There are no additional costs during the tour, unless travelers wish to purchase extra items or services not included in the package. The tour is all-inclusive.

How Long Is the Drive to Inuyama Castle?

The drive to Inuyama Castle from Nagoya takes around 45 minutes. The tour includes private transportation to and from the castle, so travelers don’t need to worry about the commute time.

The Sum Up

The car tour to Inuyama Castle and Urakuen Garden provided a captivating blend of historical, cultural, and unique experiences. Visitors can admire the castle’s architecture, partake in a traditional tea ceremony, and encounter the intriguing phallus statue – all while indulging in local delicacies and beverages. This well-rounded excursion offers a memorable immersion into Japan’s rich heritage and traditions.