Aichi Travel Guide (Chubu/Japan/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Aichi

Located in Japan’s central region of Chubu, Aichi is a prefecture that boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Home to the historic city of Nagoya, Aichi also offers visitors a wide range of attractions, from museums and historical sites to hiking and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, Aichi has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Aichi with tips on where to go, what to do, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Aichi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aichi is steeped in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites that visitors shouldn’t miss. Some of the most popular include:

Nagoya Castle: Built in the 17th century, this iconic castle is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, admire the architecture, and learn about the castle’s history in the museum.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology: This museum showcases the evolution of Toyota’s automobile and textile industries, and offers hands-on exhibits and demonstrations of manufacturing techniques.
Tokugawa Art Museum: Located near Nagoya Castle, this museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the Edo period, including swords, ceramics, and lacquerware.

Natural Attractions of Aichi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Aichi has plenty to offer. From hiking trails to scenic views, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. Some of the top natural attractions include:

Meiji-mura Village: Located in Inuyama, this open-air museum showcases historical buildings from the Meiji period (1868-1912) and allows visitors to step back in time.
Korankei Gorge: Famous for its autumn foliage, this scenic gorge offers stunning views and great photo opportunities. Visitors can hike the trails or enjoy river cruises.
Ise Bay: This majestic bay offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to several small islands that are perfect for day trips and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aichi

Aichi is also home to several hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the prefecture’s natural beauty. Some of the best routes include:

Mount Fuji: Located in the southern part of Aichi, this mountain offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Mikawa Bay Cycling Road: This scenic route follows the coast of Mikawa Bay and offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
Gozaisho-dake: This mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Aichi and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.

Best Things to Do in Aichi: Activities and Tours

In addition to its natural beauty and historic sites, Aichi also offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours. Some of the best include:

Legoland Japan: This theme park is a must-visit for families with children and features over 40 attractions and activities, including rides, shows, and Lego building workshops.
Samurai Experience: Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture with this unique tour, which includes a samurai costume fitting, sword training, and tea ceremony.
Sake Tours: Aichi is known for its sake production, and several breweries offer tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample different types of sake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aichi

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Aichi, here’s one itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Nagoya Castle, Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, Tokugawa Art Museum
Day 2: Meiji-mura Village, Inuyama Castle
Day 3: Ise Bay, Mikawa Bay Cycling Road
Day 4: Legoland Japan, Nagoya City Science Museum
Day 5: Korankei Gorge, Hida Takayama (daytrip)
Day 6: Gozaisho-dake, Sake Tour
Day 7: Osu Shopping District, Atsuta Shrine

Food and Drink Scene of Aichi

Aichi is also known for its delicious cuisine, and there are several dishes and local specialties that visitors shouldn’t miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Miso Katsu: A fried pork cutlet served with a thick, sweet miso sauce.
Hitsumabushi: Grilled eel served on a bed of rice and seasoned with a special sauce.
Tebasaki: Deep-fried chicken wings seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

Local Beverages

Sake: Aichi is home to several sake breweries, and visitors can sample different types of sake on tours or at local restaurants.
Green tea: Aichi is also known for its high-quality green tea, which is grown in the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay in Aichi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aichi has a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget or travel style. Some of the best include:

Hilton Nagoya: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Nagoya and offers stunning city views, a fitness center, and several dining options.
Guesthouse Yamanaka: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in Inuyama and offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Meiji-mura Village.
Kato Hotel: This family-friendly hotel is located in Toyohashi and offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a hot spring bath.

What to Buy in Aichi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from Aichi, there are several options to choose from. Some of the best include:

Japanese lacquerware: Aichi is famous for its traditional lacquerware, which can be found at local shops and markets.
Hatcho Miso: Aichi is also known for its high-quality miso paste, which can be purchased at local markets and specialty shops.
Teru Teru Bozu: These cute, little dolls are believed to bring good weather and can be found at souvenir shops throughout Aichi.

Local Culture and Customs of Aichi

Aichi has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be aware of local customs and etiquette. Bowing is a common form of greeting, and shoes should be removed when entering homes and some temples. Tipping is not expected at restaurants or other establishments, and it is considered impolite to speak loudly in public.

Best Time to Visit Aichi

The best time to visit Aichi depends on your interests and travel style. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but is a great time to enjoy beaches and water activities. Winter (December to February) is chilly, but visitors can enjoy skiing and winter sports in the mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aichi

Do:

Respect local customs and etiquette.
Keep your voice down in public places.
Try local cuisine and sake.

Don’t:

Take photos of people without permission.
Wear shoes inside homes or some temples.
Tip at restaurants or other establishments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aichi

Aichi is generally a safe place to travel, and visitors should take the usual precautions to protect their valuables and personal safety. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas, so visitors should be vigilant and keep a close eye on their belongings.

Health in Aichi

Aichi has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can expect high-quality medical care in case of illness or injury. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities or sports.

Getting to Aichi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Aichi is easily accessible from major cities in Japan and abroad. Visitors can arrive by plane, train, or bus, and there are several transportation options for getting around the prefecture.

Airports Near Aichi

Chubu Centrair International Airport: Located on an artificial island off the coast of Aichi, this airport serves domestic and international flights and offers convenient access to Nagoya city.

Bus Stations Near Aichi

JR Bus: This bus network provides transportation between major cities in Aichi and other parts of Japan.
Meitetsu Bus: This bus company operates local and regional routes within Aichi and offers convenient access to popular tourist destinations.

Other Options

Train: Aichi is well connected by train, and visitors can take the shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
Rental car: Visitors can also rent a car to explore Aichi at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Aichi

Aichi has an extensive public transportation network that includes trains, buses, and subways. Visitors can purchase IC cards, such as Suica or Pasmo, to pay for transportation, which can be used on multiple modes of transportation. Taxis and rental cars are also available for more flexible transportation options.

Where to Go Next from Aichi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aichi is located in central Japan, making it a great starting point for exploring other parts of the country. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

Kyoto: Located just a few hours away by train, Kyoto is home to many historic temples and shrines, as well as beautiful gardens and parks.
Tokyo: Japan’s bustling capital is a must-visit for first-time visitors, and is easily accessible from Aichi by shinkansen or plane.
Gifu Prefecture: Located to the north of Aichi, Gifu offers stunning natural scenery, including the picturesque Shirakawa-go village and the rugged Northern Alps.

Conclusion

Aichi is a hidden gem in Japan that offers visitors a wealth of experiences, from historic sites and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family or friends, Aichi has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Japan’s central region!

Aichi Image Gallery

Tokoname Manekineko

SCMaglev and Railway Museum in Nagoya

Aka-miso soup