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Touch the Sword, Strike the Mokugyo: A Spiritual Half-Day in Nagoya

Location 1: Atsuta Shrine Grand Torii Gate

Location2: Atsuta Shrine Main Hall

Location 1: Atsuta Shrine - Purification Fountain

Location 1: Atsuta Shrine - Sacred Camphor Tree

Location 1: Atsuta Shrine - Sacred Sake Barrels

Location 1: Atsuta Shrine - Ema (Write Your Wish)

Location 2: Kusanagikan Sword Experience

Location 2: Kusanagikan Big Katana Experience

Location 3: Entrance of Tōgan-ji Temple

Location 3: Gate of Tōgan-ji Temple

Location 3: Bamboo Grove at Tōgan-ji Temple

Location 3: Interior of Tōgan-ji Temple

Location 3: The Large Mokugyo at Tōgan-ji Temple

Location 3: The Green Buddha of Tōgan-ji Temple

Touch the Sword, Strike the Mokugyo: A Spiritual Half-Day in Nagoya

Highlights

Joined 2025

Ryota T.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Nagoya

English, Japanese (Native)

4 hours

Private tour (only you and Ryota T.)

Up to 5 people

Definition:

A cultural journey into samurai spirit — see a giant Buddha, strike a mokugyo, and explore Japan’s sacred sword legacy.

Who is it for?

Ideal for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and travelers curious about Japan’s deeper cultural layers.

What can you experience?

Visit a temple and shrine, feel the echo of Zen and Bushido, and enjoy a taste of tradition through hands-on encounters.

What will you gain?

Insight into samurai values — plus memories shaped by sound, spirit, and sword.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

09:00 AM

Meeting Point

At Nagoya Station

- The meeting point is Nagoya Station, right outside the Shinkansen ticket gates. You’ll find a large gold clock, a well-known landmark, making it easy to spot.

09:30 AM

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.

10:30 AM

Kusanagikan

Hold one of Japan’s finest samurai swords!

Kusanagikan offers a rare opportunity to explore the craftsmanship, history, and spiritual significance of Japanese swords (Nihontou) through an immersive, hands-on experience.

Highlights & Experiences:

・Samurai Sword Legacy – Discover the artistry and history behind Japan’s legendary blades.

・Hands-On Experience – Feel the weight and balance of a real Nihontou.

・Master Swordsmiths – Gain insight into the precision and dedication of Japan’s finest artisans.

・Spiritual Connection – Understand the deep cultural and symbolic meaning of the samurai’s most revered weapon.

11:30 AM

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.

Ending Point

At Nagoya Station

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

What‘s included

・English-speaking guide Fees

・Hotel pick-up in the central area of Nagoya

・Assistance with public transportation directions

What‘s not included

・Lunch costs (for both the guide and yourself)

・Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks, etc.)

・Transportation costs (for both the guide and yourself)

・Activity costs

・Travel insurance

Tour Important Information

Available year-round, with customizable schedules for different group needs.

Important message from the supplier

・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.

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 2025

Ryota T.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Ryota T.

Welcome to Nagoyeah! (Nagoya, but way more fun!)

Hi, I'm Ryota, a nationally certified guide interpreter. I was 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!