Step into the spirit of the samurai on this cultural journey — visit a temple, shrine, and Zen garden, ring a mokugyo, and explore Japan’s sacred swords. Perfect for history lovers and spiritual seekers, this tour offers hands-on traditions and deep insight into Zen and Bushido. Guided by a nationally licensed guide with a private car, the tour is safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Few reviews here yet, but I have many 5-star reviews on other platforms.
**Kids join for free!**
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel in Nagoya
- I will pick you up at the designated time.
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle exemplifies the pinnacle of Japanese architectural ingenuity, seamlessly blending elegance with formidable defense.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Iconic Tenshu (Main Keep) – A towering symbol of samurai power and strategic design.
・Intricate Craftsmanship – Marvel at the refined wooden artistry and traditional construction techniques.
・Advanced Fortifications – Explore the castle’s innovative defenses, including massive stone walls and moats.
・Cultural Legacy – Discover how this architectural masterpiece continues to inspire admiration and historical appreciation.
Tōgan-ji Temple
Touch Japan’s largest mokugyo (wooden drum) and encounter the stunning green Great Buddha!
Tōgan-ji Temple is a hidden gem in Nagoya, offering a peaceful blend of Buddhist tradition and rare spiritual encounters. Famous for its striking 10-meter-tall Daibutsu and sacred artifacts, the temple invites visitors to slow down and reflect — while experiencing hands-on elements of Zen culture.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Green Great Buddha – Gaze upon the serene 10-meter-tall Daibutsu, surrounded by quiet forested paths.
・Mokugyo Experience – Try striking Japan’s largest wooden drum, used in rituals to focus the mind and spirit.
・Zen Atmosphere – Stroll through tranquil grounds rich in symbolism, turtles, and centuries-old trees.
・Hidden Spiritual Spot – Discover a lesser-known temple favored by locals, offering a quiet escape from the city.
Lunch
Enjoy a lunch of Nagoya’s local specialties in Arimatsu.
Arimatsu Kogei
Arimatsu Shibori Tie-Dye is a centuries-old craft that originated in the historic town of Arimatsu, once a lively post town on the Tōkaidō Road. Known for its intricate hand-dyed patterns, Shibori embodies the artistry, patience, and creativity of Japan’s textile tradition.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Historic Craftsmanship – Learn the secrets of a textile art form that has been perfected for over 400 years.
・Hands-On Creativity – Try your hand at dyeing your own fabric using traditional Shibori techniques.
・Cultural Heritage – Discover how this craft was treasured by merchants and travelers along the Tōkaidō.
・Take Home a Memory – Bring back your personally crafted piece as a unique and lasting souvenir of Japan.
Atsuta Shrine
Atsuta Shrine stands as a sacred site deeply tied to Japan’s samurai and warrior culture. Home to the legendary Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of Japan’s imperial regalia swords, it has long been a place of devotion for warriors seeking strength and protection.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Samurai Legacy – Follow in the footsteps of warriors like Oda Nobunaga, who offered his sword in gratitude for victory.
・Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi – Discover the legend of this mythical blade, a symbol of imperial power.
・Sacred Atmosphere – Stroll through serene, forested grounds that have inspired devotion for centuries.
・Shinto Rituals – Experience traditional ceremonies and the spiritual essence of Japan’s warrior heritage.
Osu Shopping Street
A vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, Osu Shopping Street is Nagoya’s cultural hub, filled with historic temples, street food, vintage stores, and trendy boutiques. With over 400 years of history, this lively district offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary pop culture.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Osu Kannon Temple – Visit one of Nagoya’s most famous Buddhist temples, a spiritual landmark with a rich history.
・Street Food Paradise – Taste local specialties like miso katsu, dorayaki, and taiyaki as you stroll through the market.
・Otaku Culture & Vintage Finds – Explore anime shops, second-hand kimono stores, and retro electronics markets.
・Seasonal Festivals – Experience colorful street performances and lively festivals throughout the year.
Ending Point
At your hotel in Nagoya
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
・English-speaking guide Fees
・Travel by HONDA FREED
・Lunch costs (for both the guide and yourself)
・Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks, etc.)
・Activity costs
・Travel insurance
・Gasoline fee (¥2,000)
・highway tolls (¥3,000)
Available year-round, with customizable schedules for different group needs.
・You can easily enjoy the tour as a day trip or a short stopover from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
・Please make sure to have travel insurance, as the guide cannot be held responsible for any damages or losses.
・Bring enough cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.
・My main guiding areas are Aichi, Gifu, and Mie, but other locations can be arranged upon request.
Welcome to Nagoya! Hi, I'm Ryota, a nationally certified guide interpreter. I offer a safe and comfortable journey with the convenience of a private car, ensuring a relaxing and personalized travel experience. Born and raised in Nagoya, studied business administration in the U.S., and spent 5 years in IT sales before working in vending machine logistics for 10 years. Through my international collaborations, I deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture.
I’m thrilled that you’re considering a visit to Nagoya—a city where tradition and innovation come together, and warm-hearted locals are eager to share their stories with you.
To make your journey truly unforgettable, I offer personalized guides that present Nagoya not just as a collection of isolated "points" (individual tourist spots) but as a connected "surface"—a seamless journey weaving together related locations into a rich, cohesive story.
My goal is to create experiences where you can deeply immerse yourself in the culture, touch its essence, and uncover the stories behind each destination—leaving you with lasting inspiration that stays with you long after your journey.
Let’s make it a Nagoyeah experience together! Are you ready to explore Nagoya’s unique blend of old and new? Let’s get started!
$404/ per group