Full-Day Samurai & Street Food Tour in Inuyama, Near Nagoya
From swordplay to street eats, castles to tea gardens. Discover the spirit of the samurai in this full-day cultural adventure in Inuyama, a historical town near Nagoya.
Highlights
Train in Iaido at a real dojo with a certified instructor
Visit Inuyama Castle, a National Treasure of Japan
Sample local specialties like goheimochi and monaka sweets
Explore Inuyama’s charming historic streets and Karakuri puppet museum
Experience a serene tea ceremony at Urakuen teahouse
10 meals
Experience Details
Step into the world of Japan’s warrior tradition and refined culture on this immersive day tour in Inuyama, guided by a knowledgeable local expert.
Your journey begins at the iconic Golden Clock in Nagoya Station. From there, travel by train to a countryside dojo, where you'll learn the Japanese martial art of Iaido, the way of the samurai sword. Under the guidance of a certified sensei, you'll practice precise movements that reflect centuries of discipline and philosophy.
Then, it’s on to Inuyama Castle and its surrounding town, where history and flavor come together. Stroll the picturesque main street and enjoy a guided tasting of regional street foods — including goheimochi (grilled rice skewers), Inuyama Castle monaka sweets, and a vibrant Dengaku Gozen lunch set highlighting local flavors.
In the afternoon, take in the panoramic views from the top of Inuyama Castle, Japan’s oldest surviving original wooden castle. Then, step into the playful world of karakuri, mechanical puppets that once entertained feudal lords, at the Inuyama Karakuri Museum.
Finally, wind down your day at Urakuen, where you’ll partake in a traditional tea ceremony. Set in a tranquil garden, this activity offers a quiet moment of reflection — a fitting end to a day steeped in history, taste and tradition.
Sample itinerary:
- 8:00am Meet at the Nagoya Station Golden Clock
- 8:27-9:17am Travel from Nagoya Station to Haguro Station
- 9:30-11:30am Iaido Experience
- 11:30am-12:00pm Travel to Inuyama Station
- 12:00-14:30pm Lunch + 2 street foods
- 14:30-15:30pm Inuyama Castle visit
- 14:00-14:30pm Karakuri Museum visit
- 15:30-16:30 Urakuen Gardens visit
- 16:30-17:30 Travel back from Inuyama Yuen Station to Nagoya Station
What You Get
Good To Know
- This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes.
- The tour is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs.
- Gluten-free diets cannot be safely accommodated. However, other dietary restrictions may be accommodated with advance notice. Please inquire at the time of booking.
- To ensure the best experience for all guests, punctuality is required. Guests who arrive more than 15 minutes after the scheduled start time may have their booking canceled without a refund.
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host under the Nagoya Station Golden Clock. A Google Maps link will be shared upon booking.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 1 week before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Home to the economic powerhouse and port city of Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture backs onto mountainous landscapes that overlook the two peninsulas surrounding Mikawa Bay and famously fuels its hard-working people with miso, complimentary breakfasts, and more miso.
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10 meals
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