Nagoya: National Treasure Inuyama Castle & Tea Room Private Tour
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3h
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About this experience
Discover Inuyama’s rich history and charm on this private guided tour. Start at Inuyama Station and explore the historic Castle Town, with stops at the Donden-kan and Former Isobe Residence, where you’ll learn about the town’s unique features.
Visit the Castle and Town Museum to dive deeper into the area’s past. Then, capture the iconic red torii gates at Sanko Inari Shrine.
Next, step inside Inuyama Castle, Japan’s oldest surviving castle keep and National Treasure. Learn about its fascinating history and enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
The tour concludes at the serene Yuraku-en Garden, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the seasonal plants. While entry to the National Treasure tea room is limited, you can still experience traditional tea culture at Gen-an.
This 3.5-hour private tour offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, ideal for anyone looking to explore Inuyama’s timeless charm.
Available options
Nagoya: National Treasure Inuyama Castle & Tea Room Private Tour
What's included
Admission Fee and Matcha Experience at Urakuen
Admission Fee for Inuyama Castle
English Speaking Guide
Admission Fee for Shiro to Machi Museum
Detailed itinerary
1
Inuyama Castle Town offers a charming glimpse into Japan’s past with its preserved traditional streets, lined with historic buildings, shops, and eateries. Stroll through the lively town to enjoy local delicacies, handmade crafts, and a unique cultural atmosphere near the iconic Inuyama Castle.
2
The Former Isobe Residence showcases the elegant lifestyle of wealthy merchants during the Edo period. This beautifully preserved building features traditional architecture, serene tatami rooms, and a picturesque garden. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and craftsmanship of Inuyama’s merchant culture.
3
The Castle and Town Museum in Inuyama reveals the history and charm of the castle town. Learn about its Edo-period origins, unique layout, and local life through exhibits in the preserved Former Isobe Residence, blending traditional architecture with cultural heritage.
4
Sanko Inari Shrine in Inuyama is famed for its vivid red torii gates and connection to good fortune in love and relationships. Visitors can write heart-shaped ema (wishes) and enjoy the serene atmosphere while admiring the picturesque surroundings near Inuyama Castle.
5
Inuyama Castle, a National Treasure, is one of Japan's oldest and most well-preserved castles. Its wooden donjon, dating back to 1537, remains the oldest surviving castle keep in the country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and explore the rich history of this iconic landmark.
6
Yuraku-en, located in Inuyama, is home to a National Treasure tea room, though its interior is not open to the public. Visitors can admire the stunning exterior of the tea room, set within the garden's peaceful surroundings. The garden offers beautiful views and a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Please meet your guide in front of the ticket gate at Inuyama Station in Aichi Prefecture. The guide will be holding a yellow sign with the DeepExperience logo.
About Inuyama
Inuyama is a charming historic city nestled along the Kiso River, known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and the iconic Inuyama Castle. The city offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, scenic beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience away from the bustling modern cities.
Top Attractions
Inuyama Castle
A beautifully preserved feudal castle with a rich history, offering stunning views of the Kiso River and surrounding mountains. It's one of Japan's few original castles not rebuilt in the 20th century.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
¥500
Meiji Mura Museum
An open-air museum featuring historic buildings from the Meiji era, relocated and preserved to showcase Japan's rapid modernization during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Historical/Museum
Half day
¥1,000
Kuruwa Historical District
The charming old town of Inuyama, featuring well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses, traditional shops, and cafes. It's a great place to experience old-world Japan.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore (costs vary for shops and cafes)
Shiroyama Park
A scenic park located on a hill, offering panoramic views of Inuyama Castle and the Kiso River. It's a great spot for picnics, walking, and enjoying nature.
Nature/Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ueno Shrine
A historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Oda Nobunaga, a prominent warlord of the Sengoku period. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Religious/Cultural
30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Miso Katsu
A deep-fried pork cutlet topped with a sweet and savory miso sauce, a local specialty of Aichi Prefecture.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, gluten (soy sauce and miso)
Inuyama Cake
A fluffy, layered sponge cake with a light and airy texture, often filled with whipped cream and fruit.
Dessert
Vegetarian (check for dairy and egg content)
Hishio Maki
A type of sushi roll wrapped in persimmon leaves, seasoned with hishio (a type of seasoning), and filled with vinegared rice and various ingredients.
Snack
Contains fish, soy (vinegar and seasoning)
Hikiwari
A type of mochi (rice cake) made from pounded rice, often served with various toppings or as a sweet treat.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for added ingredients like red bean paste)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding mountains
Rafting or kayaking on the Kiso River
Picnicking in Shiroyama Park
Tea ceremony at a local tea house
Traditional crafts workshops
Samurai or ninja experience
Boat tours on the Kiso River
Winter illumination at Shirakawa-go
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer comfortable weather, cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Inuyama is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local community. As with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night
Getting there
By air
- Chubu Centrair International Airport • 30 km from Inuyama
- Nagoya Airfield • 35 km from Inuyama
By train
Inuyama Station, Inuyama-Yuen Station
By bus
Inuyama Bus Terminal, Nagoya Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are convenient and affordable, with frequent services to key locations. IC cards like Suica or Manaca can be used.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Kuruwa)
Downtown
Riverside
Day trips
Nagoya
20 km • Half day to full day
Nagoya is a major city in Aichi Prefecture, known for its rich history, modern architecture, and cultural attractions. It's a great destination for shopping, dining, and exploring museums.
Gifu
25 km • Full day
Gifu is a historic city known for its samurai heritage, traditional crafts, and beautiful natural scenery. It's a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers.
Shirakawa-go
100 km • Full day
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. It's a unique and picturesque destination, offering a glimpse into rural Japanese life.
Festivals
Inuyama Festival • April 29 - May 5 (Golden Week)
Inuyama Castle Summer Festival • August 1-31
Inuyama Castle Winter Illumination • December 1 - February 28
Pro tips
- Visit Inuyama Castle early in the morning to see the castle gate open ceremoniously at 9 AM.
- Try local specialties like miso katsu, inuyama cakes, and hikiwari (mochi).
- Explore the old town on foot, as it's pedestrian-friendly and offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
- Combine a visit to Inuyama Castle with a stroll through Shiroyama Park for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Check for seasonal events and festivals, such as the Inuyama Festival and the winter illumination at Inuyama Castle.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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