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A fun relaxed car tour to Inuyama castle
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Joined 2024
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.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
hotel, hostel, airbnb, station, etc
- I'll pick you up at your desired location within Nagoya
Inuyama castle
Visit Japan's oldest mountain castle located in Inuyama. Inuyama Castle, built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu—the uncle of the renowned warlord Oda Nobunaga—offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich history. The castle is surrounded by three distinctive shrines, making it an ideal destination to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Lunch, the third most important meal of the day
A little chill time, we can have lunch at a nearby restaurant, or we can sit somewhere and have a lunch box. We can also stroll around in our next location and eat while we walk.
Inuyama joka machi/wear kimono/yukata/matcha green tea
A charming street leading to the castle, Joka Machi, which means "castle town," boasts a unique atmosphere with quaint shops, traditional houses, and delightful eateries. You can wear a kimono or yukata as you explore the town, return to the castle for stunning photos, and even enjoy a cup of green tea with wagashi (traditional japanese sweets)in a traditional setting in the Urakuen garden. This garden was created for a single purpose: to serve as the setting for Jo-an, a priceless
seventeenth-century tea house. Jo-an is a masterwork of tea house architecture and one of
only three tea houses recognized as National Treasures.
Tagata shrine
A mere 30 minutes away from Inuyama, is the little city of Komaki. Komaki is home to the yearly Tagata Jinja Shrine's Honen Festival, one of the rarest festivals in Japan as they carry around huge wooden carved penis and deliver it to this shrine. This shrine is full of phallus symbols, whether of stone or wood and comes in all sizes. It's a small shrine, but worth a visit.
Back to Nagoya
Slowly we head back to Nagoya, and like with all my tours, I don't mind stopping at a local supermarket, drug store etc., to get some things you normally can't get in the city center
Ending Point
Your desired location
Want to personalize this tour?
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)
highway fees included
gasoline included
parking included
Guidance
Refreshments
Video recording and still pictures
entrance fee castle
I will upload the video and pictures to a private cloud for you to download. They will NOT be used for promotion without your permission.
kimono/yukata 4400 yen pp
Urakuen garden and tea 1800 yen
alcoholic beverages
lunch
Tour Important Information
-The tea ceremony place is closed on Wednesdays.
-I recommend weekdays as the weekends get crowdy
There are two ways I do this trip:
-The "from point to point" way, in this case I follow the itinerary to the minute and to location, you'll be back at a set time.
-The "follow your feeling" way, in this case I adapt to your wishes and keep the itinerary as a base plan. I can't really guarantee you'll be back on the minute.
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
Joined 2024
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!
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 ️
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!
$316/ per group
More tours by Serge R.
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Nagoya: car tour to the beauty of Korankei valley
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Nagoya: car tour to the beauty of Korankei valley
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Nagoya Private Car Tour for Auto Enthusiasts
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Nagoya Private Car Tour for Auto Enthusiasts
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Discover Nagoya's Best Hotspots: A Car Journey with a Fun Guide
Join us for a comfortable private car tour of Nagoya and its nearby surroundings, guided by a fun and experienced local expert. Relax and enjoy the views and engaging conversation as we travel from one location to the next. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized to suit your preferences. This tour is great for Cruise ship passengers. For an additional 1200 yen pp, I can switch the itinerary and go to the famous Toyota Automobile museum or we can take a stroll through a bamboo forest.
Discover Nagoya's Best Hotspots: A Car Journey with a Fun Guide
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Private pottery and ceramics car tour in Seto
Discover Seto, a haven for pottery enthusiasts! Visit a pottery museum, watch a master potter, explore shops, and even join a workshop. Stroll along Kamagaki no Komichi, a 400-meter path lined with old kiln tools showcasing Seto's ceramic heritage. Stop by the Maneki Neko Museum, home to the largest collection of "Goodluck" cats. Enjoy lunch at a scenic soba restaurant before heading to Tajimi to explore the Mino Ceramics Park, with exhibits by local and global artists, a tea ceremony, and more.
Private pottery and ceramics car tour in Seto
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Nagoya
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.
Nagoya: car tour to the beauty of Korankei valley
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Gujyo Hachiman jyo- The Castle in the Sky and the best Unagi ever!
Gujo Hachiman Castle, located in Hachiman Town, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, is the oldest reconstructed wooden castle in Japan. Known for its elegant white keep, it’s often referred to as the “Castle in the Sky.” The castle sits atop Mt. Hachiman, overlooking the castle town, offering stunning seasonal views throughout the year. The early morning mist resembling a sea of clouds often occurs on cold mornings from autumn to winter (around November to February).
Gujyo Hachiman jyo- The Castle in the Sky and the best Unagi ever!
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Nagoya Private Car Tour for Auto Enthusiasts
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?
Nagoya Private Car Tour for Auto Enthusiasts
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Old Japan Alive at Takayama & Historical Hidden Village at Shirakawa-go
Experience the spirit of Old Japan on this full-day tour from Nagoya. Walk through the Edo-period streets of Takayama, known for its preserved wooden townscape, sake breweries, and Hida beef cuisine. Then head to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses. Nestled in the mountains, this hidden village offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s rural past. Enjoy a perfect mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty in one unforgettable trip.
Old Japan Alive at Takayama & Historical Hidden Village at Shirakawa-go