The Best Day Trips From Nagoya by Train
List of Contents:
Inuyama
Nagakute
Takayama
Ise
Gifu
Omi Hachiman
Gamagori
Related Posts
inuyama castle
Inuyama
Easily accessible via the Meitetsu-Inuyama Line Semi-Express from Meitetsu Nagoya Station in just over 30 minutes, Inuyama offers an ideal day trip from Nagoya. The city's highlight is
Inuyama Castle
, a national treasure and one of Japan's oldest original castles, which provides panoramic views from its wooden keep. Adjacent to the castle lies a charming town, including Showa Alley, where visitors can stroll through traditional streets and enjoy local snacks such as dango (Japanese dumpling made from rice flour).
Other notable attractions include the picturesque
Sanko Inari Shrine
with its iconic red torii gates and heart-shaped
ema
(wooden prayer plaques) and
Urakuen Garden
, home to the historic Joan teahouse built in 1618. For those interested in architecture from the Meiji era, the
Meiji Mura open-air museum
is a short bus ride away from Inuyama Station. Don't miss the Imperial Hotel's striking geometric entrance, designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
ghibli park
Nagakute
Nagakute, located just east of Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture, can be reached in about an hour from Nagoya via the Higashiyama Line to Fujigaoka and then by bus. A major draw is
Ghibli Park
, situated within the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park), inviting visitors to step into the whimsical worlds of Studio Ghibli films with immersive exhibits and beautifully recreated scenes.
Beyond the magic of Ghibli, history enthusiasts can explore the
Nagakute Battlefield
, a significant site where Toyotomi Hideyoshi (then known as Hashiba Hideyoshi) and Tokugawa Ieyasu's troops fought in 1584. Another popular spot to explore in the area includes the
Toyota Automobile Museum
, which showcases a vast collection of classic and modern vehicles.
Sanmachi Suji
Takayama
Takayama in Gifu Prefecture, often called 'Little Kyoto' due to its beautiful Edo-period streets, is around two and a half hours from Nagoya via the JR Hida Limited Express. Upon arrival, visitors can immerse themselves in Sanmachi Suji, Takayama's historic district, characterized by its traditional wooden merchant houses that are home to sake breweries, craft shops and cafes.
For a deeper dive into the town's rich history, explore
Takayama Jinya
, a beautifully preserved Edo-era administrative building, and consider a visit to the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall to marvel at the elaborate floats used in its famous biannual festival. The
Higashiyama Walking Course
offers a tranquil stroll through a temple-lined hillside, providing scenic views of the town.
meoto iwa
Ise
Ise
, located in Mie Prefecture and home to one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines, can be reached in about 90 minutes by Kintetsu limited express trains to Iseshi or Ujiyamada stations. One of its most symbolic sites is the
Ise Grand Shrine
(Ise Jingu), a complex with more than 120 shrines. The two most significant are the Inner Shrine (Naiku), dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami, and the Outer Shrine (Geku), dedicated to Toyouke no Omikami, the deity of food and provisions.
After visiting the shrine, explore
Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho
, charming historical streets with traditional buildings housing shops selling local specialties such as Ise udon, aka mochi rice cakes and various souvenirs. If you're traveling with your significant other, head to Futami Okitama Shrine for an ethereal sight and good fortune. It is known for its proximity to the
Meoto Iwa
'wedded rocks' that are joined by a sacred rope.
view from gifu castle
Gifu
Ideal for nature lovers and history buffs, Gifu city can be reached in less than 30 minutes from Nagoya Station. Home to
Gifu Castle
, a stronghold of the daimyo Oda Nobunaga, Gifu also boasts a fascinating history and rich culture. The
Kawaramachi district
, for instance, is a centuries-old riverside port with latticed townhouses, traditional sweets shops and narrow alleys.
Shoboji Temple
, which belongs to the Obaku sect of Zen Buddhism, houses one of Japan's most famous
Daibutsu
(Great Buddha statues).
Gifu Park, located at the foot of Mount Kinka and Gifu Castle, provides a lush space to read and rest, and is home to Nobunaga's Garden and the remains of his former residence. If you're visiting in the summer, check out
Minna no Mori
(Gifu City Chuo Library), a dreamy architectural gem known for its 'forest of umbrellas.' We also recommend trying Gifu delicacies such as Hida beef and ayu fish. For more details, check out our
guide to Gifu city
.
Hachiman-bori Canal
la collina omihachiman
Omi Hachiman
Less than an hour away from Nagoya via the Shinkansen and Biwako Line Special Rapid, Omi Hachiman in Shiga Prefecture is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Biwa. Its most beloved site is
Hachiman-bori Canal
, where you can enjoy leisurely boat rides while looking out at traditional merchant houses. Omi was a powerful trading region for centuries, and its history has been preserved with thought and care.
Another unique attraction is
La Collina Omihachiman
, the flagship store of the Taneya Group — a well-known producer of Japanese and Western confectionaries, bakeries and more. Designed by architect Terunobu Fujimori, the grass-covered structure is a sight to behold in itself. While there, try their famous freshly-baked Baumkuchen and fluffy castella.
We also recommend taking the
Hachimanyama Ropeway
up Mount Hachiman to visit Zuiryuji Temple — the serene grounds are particularly enchanting in the autumn when they are shrouded in vibrant shades of red.
Shinmachi Dori
, a street lined with historic merchant residences, is a designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings and has been around since the end of the Edo period. While in the area, check out
Kawara Museum
, which celebrates Omi Hachiman's rich history of tile artisanship.
takeshima island
Gamagori
Known for its natural beauty, hot springs and family-friendly sightseeing, Gamagori is a coastal city in Aichi Prefecture. It's reachable in about 45 minutes from Nagoya Station via the Tokaido Line Special Rapid service. The city's most iconic site is
Takeshima Island
, a scenic, peaceful gem connected by a bridge to the mainland. It is said that walking across this bridge brings couples good luck. On Takeshima, visit Yaotomi Shrine, dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Benzaiten.
If you are traveling with kids,
Laguna Ten Bosch
resort features an amusement park, water park and dazzling illuminations.
Gamagori Orange Park
, where you can participate in seasonal fruit picking, is another family-friendly place to visit. The fruits harvested here are known for their fine quality, and distributed to markets all over Japan.
Related Posts
Best Day Trips From Osaka by Train
Day Trips From Tokyo for Every Type of Traveler
The Best of Gifu City: A Weekend Trip for Nature Lovers and History Buffs
Iseshima: The Soul of Japan
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Metropolis Japan
3 hours ago
- Metropolis Japan
Tokyo Train Guide: Toei Oedo Line
With thirty-eight stations—the most of any Tokyo subway line—the Toei Oedo Line is both the second-longest train tunnel in Japan and the only fully underground subway line. Beginning at Shinjuku-Nishiguchi, the magenta-colored line loops through central Tokyo before extending past its starting point to end at Hikarigaoka. Shinjuku Area Just outside Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station, a relic of Edo history stands—the Kyu-Ome Kaido Black Pillar, marking the starting point of a 17th-century highway from old Edo. Nearby, Higashi-Shinjuku Station leads to Nishimuki-Ten, a west-facing shrine founded in 1228, known for its kaguraden ceremonial music pavilion. Cultural and Historical Stops For a taste of history with a modern twist, Ogasawara-Hakushaku-Tei near Wakamatsu-Kawada Station serves contemporary Spanish cuisine within an elegant former samurai residence. From Ushigome-Yanagicho Station, visitors can explore the digital columbarium and funerary system at Kokoku-ji Temple, situated within an ancient cemetery surrounded by ginkgo trees. Samurai enthusiasts can train under certified instructors at Samurai Theater Tokyo near Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station. At Iidabashi Station, a hidden piece of Tokyo's past awaits in Geisha Shindo alleyway, once a discreet route for geisha heading to their appointments. Scenic Views and Landmarks For panoramic views, the 105-meter-high Bunkyo Civic Center Observation Lounge is accessible from Kasuga Station. A different historical perspective is found at Hongo-Sanchome Station, where the statue of Lcommemorates her role as one of the 'Three Legs' of the 17th-century shogunate. Traditional and Modern Entertainment Traditional Japanese comedy lives on at Oedo Ueno-Hirokoji-Tei, near Ueno-Okachimachi Station, where rakugo storytelling continues to entertain. Meanwhile, Shin-Okachimachi Station offers a unique culinary experience at Ayam-Ya Halal Ramen, known for its rich chicken-based broths and facilities catering to Muslim diners. Culinary Delights By the Sumida River, Kuramae Station houses Coffee Nova, a haven for house-roasted coffee lovers. Close by, Ryogoku Station is famous for sumo but also draws visitors to the Japanese Sword Museum, where the craftsmanship of traditional blades is on full display. Unique Museums and Gardens For security and history buffs, the Safe and Key Museum, located near Morishita Station, showcases rare feudal lock technologies, including the world's only 'phantom' safe. Near Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station, the scenic Kiyosumi Teien garden offers picturesque stepping stones, ponds, and a tea house—a masterpiece of classical landscaping. Markets and Parks Monzen-Nakacho Station offers access to the Sunday antique markets of Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, which hosts the Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri, one of Tokyo's top summer festivals. Not far from Tsukishima Station, Nakanoshima Park offers peaceful waterfront views beneath Aioi Bridge. Gourmet Experiences For gourmet delights, Wagyu to Worldwide, located near Kachidoki Station, serves premium Matsusaka beef burgers. Music lovers should head from Tsukijishijo Station to Hamarikyu Asahi Concert Hall, where top-tier acoustics and an intimate stage create an unforgettable performance setting. Historical Gardens A must-see near Shiodome Station is Hamarikyu Gardens, once a private feudal retreat, now a stunning public park. A more casual experience near Daimon Station is the second-floor Okame Sushi, a cozy spot offering an authentic feel-good sushi experience. Temples and Modern Shops Established in the 17th century, Ryugen-ji Temple near Akabanebashi Station features traditional gates, a bell tower, and a serene garden. A modern contrast awaits at Azabu-Juban Station. It is home to Coconut Glen's, a Hawaiian-inspired shop offering rich, smooth vegan ice cream and smoothies. For those with dietary preferences, The Health Conscious Sweets Shop outside Roppongi Station serves handmade gluten-free, vegan, and sugar-free treats. Aoyama-Itchome Station is best known for the Akasaka Imperial Residence. However, the nearby Honda Aoyama Building showcases futuristic robotics and cutting-edge car technology. Museums and Buffets History buffs will appreciate the Meiji Memorial Museum near Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station. This is a 1926 gallery dedicated to Emperor Meiji, featuring both traditional and Western artworks. Meanwhile, Yoyogi Station is home to Gut's Soul, an incredibly priced yakiniku buffet—a must-visit for meat lovers. Theatrical and Artistic Stops For a whimsical experience, the Puk Pupa Teatro puppet theater outside Shinjuku Station has delighted audiences since 1929. Tochomae Station sits near the flea markets of Shinjuku Chuo Park and the grand Shinjuku Juniso Kumano Jinja, once supported by the Tokugawa shogunate. Nishi-Shinjuku-Gochome Station supports local artists with Gallery TEN, a solo art space hosting year-round exhibitions. Nearby, Nakano-Sakaue Station offers another local favorite: Tenfune, a neighborhood tempura restaurant known for serving upscale flavors at an affordable price. Music and Hidden Gems Music Live Drum, an all-day venue near Higashi-Nakano Station, transitions from a café by morning to a bar and open-mic hub by night. A quieter cultural experience is found near Nakai Station at Saisho-ji Temple, where a hidden display of the Seven Lucky Gods adds a touch of charm. Manga and Nature Stops Manga fans will enjoy the Tokiwaso Manga Museum at Ochiai-Minami-Nagasaki Station, a preserved apartment where legendary manga artists once worked. Shin-Egota Station leads to Egota no Mori Park, a former shogunate hawk-hunting ground now transformed into a semi-forested public park. Seasonal Floral Beauty At Nerima Station, Heisei Tsutsuji Park is a paradise for flower lovers, particularly during azalea season. Toshimaen Station, once home to the famed amusement park, now features The Making of Harry Potter studio tour—an all-day movie magic experience. The floral theme continues at Aisenin Kannon-ji, a temple near Nerima-Kasugacho Station renowned for its hanging wisteria garden. The Toei Oedo Line finally concludes its journey at Hikarigaoka Station. Hikarigaoka Park's 17,000 trees, including 1,000 cherry blossoms, offer a serene and fitting end to this station-packed subway line. Pass Options
Japan Today
5 hours ago
- Japan Today
Fukushima Waraji Festival: See a parade unlike you've ever seen before
By Abhijit Sen Every August, Fukushima City hosts the Fukushima Waraji Festival. The word waraji refers to a traditional type of straw sandal worn by Japanese monks and travelers. The festival includes lively dancing, rhythmic taiko drums and an impressive giant straw sandal that is paraded through the streets to the top of the mountain, where the Haguro Shrine is located. The word waraji in Fukushima has a special cultural meaning. It's connected to the nearby Mount Shinobu and its guardian deity. According to legend, offering a giant waraji at the Haguro Shrine on Mount Shinobu brings safety and strong legs for travelers and pilgrims. The Akatsuki-mairi (Dawn procession) has been around since the Edo Period, a tradition that has continued for over 400 years. This sacred connection sets the foundation for the lively celebrations that happen each summer. The first Fukushima Waraji Festival took place in 1970. It aimed to help the local community and celebrate its rich culture. Festival Highlights The Waraji Parade features a massive 12-meter-long, 2-ton straw sandal carried through Fukushima City. This impressive display symbolizes strength and well-being. Leading the parade is the Waraji Odori dance, a performance of dancers dressed in yukata (summer kimonos). The festival begins with music from the Showa Era, encouraging everyone to dance and enjoy it together. As the second night unfolds, the atmosphere shifts to upbeat, modern songs that inspire people to participate. The city transforms into a giant dance party as everyone joins in the fun. There are also waraji races and traditional folk dancing. Click here to read more. External Link © GaijinPot
SoraNews24
12 hours ago
- SoraNews24
Foreign resident of Japan starts work as city's first-ever non-Japanese rickshaw puller【Photos】
Trilingual guide spreading love for one of Japan's most beautiful historical towns. The first chapters of Joris De Bievre's life in Japan aren't all that unusual. Born in France but interested in the Asian nation from a young age, he moved to Tokyo in his 20s, working in the IT field and taking trips around the country in his spare time. Of the many places he visited, De Bievre was especially fond of Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture. The town is famous for its Higashi Chaya teahouse district with rows of preserved historical buildings and for Kenrokuen, considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Charms such as those had De Bievre so enamored with the place that in 2022, after eight years of living in Tokyo, he moved to Kanazawa, continuing to work in systems engineering via a remote work arrangement. However, he's now picked up a second job in Kanazawa, and one that's much less common for foreigners in Japan. In the fall of last year, De Bievre was introduced via a mutual acquaintance to the owner of Kanazawa Ichirikisha, a rickshaw tour company that pulls customers around the city's historical sightseeing quarters. 'Why don't you try working with us?' the owner asked De Bievre, who'd previously worked as a guide for Japanese tourists in France, and so he decided to take the rickshaw boss up on his offer. Being a rickshaw puller in the modern era is job with two sides to it, though. Customers don't just expect a ride, they also want to know about the local history and significance of places they pass along the route. So while De Bievre, who's 39 years old, already enjoyed physical activity and talking with people, he needed to spend time apprenticing at Kanazawa Ichirikisha before he'd be ready to start serving actual customers. He kept at it though, running routes with the Kanazawa Ichirikisha staff one day a week in the Higashiyama and Kannonmachi neighborhoods of the city. Finally, this month, on July 21, he made his official debut, pulling paying customers for the first time on a blisteringly hot day. De Bievre is Kanazawa's first foreign rickshaw puller, but that doesn't mean that Kanazawa Ichirikisha is going to have him pulling foreign customers exclusively, as he's able to communicate in Japanese. In fact, two of his first customers were a pair of Japanese women, one of whom remarked that 'Hering explanations about this part of Kanazawa from the perspective of a foreign person has rekindled my interest and appreciation for my hometown.' Kanazawa Ichirikisha does realize, though, that De Bievre's ability to converse in his native French, as well as English, gives them a way to accommodate inbound foreign tourists who don't speak Japanese. The current plan is for him to pull rickshaws primarily on weekends while continuing to work his regular job, and if you're interested in booking a tour with Kanazawa Ichirikisha, their website can be found here. Source: Hokuriku Shimbun (1, 2) via Yahoo! Japan News Top image: Pakutaso ● Want to hear about SoraNews24's latest articles as soon as they're published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
