Nagoya: car tour to the beauty of Korankei valley
Join a serene tour of Korankei Valley, a peaceful retreat from Nagoya, with a stop at the Toganji temple. Travel in comfort with a private, experienced guide by minivan. Explore historic streets, dip your toes in the river, or enjoy a gentle hike in tranquil Asuke. Perfect for those seeking a break from tourist crowds or major attractions. I'll answer your questions about Japan, capture your journey in photos, and ensure unforgettable memories.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
hotel
- I will pick you up at your desired location, I'll be there 9 or 10, if you're not an early bird. We can always stop at a convenience store or Starbucks along the way if your morning caffeine intake wasn't enough or if you just want something to nibble on.
Toganji temple
This temple is a “hidden gem”: tranquil, not crowded even though it's inside the city — a peaceful escape from city bustle. There are so many surprises there, you'll love it
Lunch time!
Lunch, we can have a lunchbox outside or we can go to a restaurant in Asuke village
Korankei gorge/Sanshu Asuke village
Korankei valley. In Korankei valley, you can get away from the business of Nagoya, walk around, dip your toes in the river and if you’re up to it go on a small hike and visit a shrine hidden in the forest. Even though Asuke is most famous for its 4000 Japanese maple trees which create beautiful autumn colors, it’s beautiful whole year round. If we're lucky you might hear the sound of the bush warbler, a tiny bird with a big voice.
Asuke castle
A historic site that offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Located in the charming town of Asuke, this reconstructed castle provides an authentic experience of the Edo period. Wander through its well-preserved grounds, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Asuke Castle is not just a monument of history but also a serene spot where you can appreciate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. (for Philipino travelers, this a location where pusong dragon by Abra was recorded)
(closed on thursdays/entrance 300 yen) (included in package)
zofuku-ji temple
If there is still time over.......
Toyota cars, Japanese maple trees, a bush warbler, a castle.......all that's missing from this trip is a visit to a temple. I will bring you to Zoufukuji temple, a quiet local temple in a rather old little village. The sounds of thousands of wind chimes fill the air, while we slowly walk around and enjoy the peacefulness of these surroundings
Ending Point
Your desired location
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Transport by car (Mitsubishi delica d5)
All entrance fees
highway fees included
gasoline included
Guidance
Refreshments
alcoholic beverages (I can prepare them on request though)
lunch
Tour Important Information
I will adapt this schedule to your wishes and ideas
I cut out the Toyota museum as you are not passionate about cars,.
Thursdays Sanshu Yashiki is closed
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Serge R.
Hi lovely travelers,
I'm Serge, originally from the Netherlands, and Japan has been my home for over three decades now. What brought me here initially was love, and that love has kept me rooted in this beautiful country ever since. Along the way, I discovered another love: Japan itself. Following my stint as a radio jockey and TV presenter, where I co-hosted a dedicated program for the Nagoya Grampus soccer team, I transitioned to a behind-the-scenes role as a media fixer for international media outlets.
Though my job as media fixer, I've been traveling and working throughout all of Japan, exploring unique places and meeting lots of very interesting people.
I would love to share and make you, my dear traveler, experience these places as well. Visiting and getting a tour at Japan's oldest traditional vinegar maker, or experience and taste at a traditional "katsuo bushi" bonito flake maker, or do you prefer to visit some old local shrines or temples. with no-one around you, except for the crickets and trees. Maybe you just want a friend to bring you to your desired locations and interpret and be at your beck and call 24 hours (like I do for the media). If you're looking for flexibility (time, places. transport), you won't find a better match than me.
My work as a fixer taught me a valuable lesson: the key to traveling together successfully, lies in a blend of humor, professionalism, and adaptability.
Reviews
Pey wei Y.
“Yummy miso museum tour and pet lovers' temple/shrine visit”
We booked a second day with Serge and had our absolute pleasure of meeting his wife, Tomoko-san on Day 2. My mum wanted to visit the miso museum and happily bought lots of hatcho miso for future meals. I also wanted to visit the inu (dog) shrine and Ryusenji temple as I've read online that they look after quite a few cats in the area and we were fortunate enough to meet some of them. Both the shrine and the temple were very quiet, only visited by locals and we really enjoyed the experience. After learning about my Pokemon obsession, Tomoko very kindly led me to special Pokemon/Magikarp manhole cover located in Nagoya castle so that I can take a photo of it. Both Serge and Tomoko have an incredible dynamic together and we absolutely loved their company. They are very warm and welcoming people and very eager to share their culture and experiences with us. I am already counting down my days of when I'll be returning to Nagoya and I'll be sure to book another tour with Serge and Tomoko when I do! Again, 10 out of 5 stars!
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Serge R.
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and heartfelt review! It truly means a lot to both Tomoko and me. We were so happy that you decided to spend a second day with us, and it was a real pleasure for us to share that day with you and your mum. I’m especially glad that your mum enjoyed the Hatcho Miso experience — and it sounds like she made sure to take a good supply home for future meals! I also loved that we could take you to the Inu Shrine and Ryusenji Temple. These are quiet, lesser-known places where you can experience a very different side of Nagoya, away from the usual tourist spots. And of course, meeting the local cats made the visit even more special! Tomoko was especially happy to hear that she could help with your Pokémon love (pokelove?) and find the Magikarp manhole cover for you. It’s always wonderful when we can add those little personal touches that make a day memorable. We really enjoyed your company as well, and we’re so happy you felt the warmth and welcome that we try to share with our guests. For us, guiding is not just about showing places — it’s about sharing Japan, exchanging stories, laughing together, and hopefully making you feel like you’ve spent the day with friends. We’ll be keeping an eye on that countdown to your return to Nagoya! When you come back, Tomoko and I will be very happy to show you some more hidden gems — and who knows, perhaps another Pokémon discovery along the way! Thank you again for the wonderful 10 out of 5 stars (love it). We truly appreciate it, and we look forward to seeing you again in Nagoya! Warmest regards, Serge & Tomoko
Pey wei Y.
“Lovely day at Korankei Valley”
I booked a tour with Serge for myself and my parents as we were staying in Nagoya for several days. Serge was an absolute delight, he was so friendly and so fun to be around with, and he was also very knowledgeable when he brought us around some places of interest for the day. Although we were about a month too early for the firey red autumn leaves, we were still able to admire the natural beauty of the valley. I highly recommend Serge's services and would say he is hands down the best guide we've had so far! He was very patient and accommodating to my parents' needs and he also kept them entertained (which isn't an easy job, especially for my dad!). I would without a doubt reach out to Serge again if/when we are back in Nagoya in the future. Would give 10 out of 5 stars if possible!
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Serge R.
Thank you so much for your lovely review! It was a real pleasure spending the day with you and your parents. I'm glad you enjoyed Korankei despite being a little early for the autumn colours! I hope to welcome you all back to Nagoya for another adventure someday. Until then, wishing you and your family all the very best! Ps your dad is awesome, I didn't entertain him, it was more of a reversed situation. Your mom and you are absolute darlings!
Alice C.
“Great Guide”
Serge’s friendly smile and easy-going personality immediately put us at ease as soon as we stepped into the airport arrival hall…. His larger-than-life personality is fascinating, as is his life story. We appreciate his enthusiasm and sense of humour throughout the tour. Thank you very much! Alice, Jack, Zenn ️
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Serge R.
Dear Alice, thank you so much for this kind review. I had a great time with you three, your husband especially made me giggle a lot with his tanuki hat. Again thank you so much for putting your day in my tiny hands. I hope we meet again in the future!
$379/ per group
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Buckle up, car lovers! This tour is a dream for anyone obsessed with horsepower and the scent of fresh interiors. First stop: the Toyota Automobile Museum, a treasure trove of mint-condition classics and modern marvels. Then, we cruise to Toyota City, birthplace of the Toyota family, to explore the Toyota Kaikan, where you can sit in, touch, and admire the latest models (no licking!). And, of course, your guide is a true car maniac—because what’s a car tour without a car-obsessed driver?
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Join this unforgettable tour that takes you to Japan's oldest castle. Wear a kimono and wonder through charming streets while savoring local delicacies. Perhaps take a ride in a traditional rickshaw and have matcha green tea in a traditional Japanese garden. Throughout the experience, we capture your memories with photos. Finally, if we have time, we’ll visit the unique Penis Shrine, where you can pray for a bountiful harvest, the flourishing of nature(fertility), and prosperous descendants.
A fun relaxed car tour to Inuyama castle
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