Exploring Nagoya & Surrounds

#Nagoya.

From quirky art (pictured) to covered shopping streets to parks and gardens, Nagoya has plenty to keep one occupied. The city is also a great base for several day trips, particularly within the Aichi Prefecture as well as the neighbouring Gifu Prefecture.

Highlights: Sengen Shrine, Shikemachi, Kinshachi Yokocho, Meijo Park, Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, Endoji Shotengai Shopping Street, Nana Chan Doll, Sky Promenade Observation Deck.

#Day Trips from Nagoya.

1. Tokoname.

For a great day trip out from Nagoya, consider heading out to the pottery town of Tokoname.

Journey Duration: Tokoname Station can be reached from Meitetsu Nagoya Station with trains taking about 30 to 40 minutes.
Highlights: Tokoname Manekineko Street, Tokonyan (a giant statue of a waving cat), Tokoname Pottery Path (pictured), and Inax Museum Complex.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is not valid for this journey. An IC card may be used, or buy a ticket at the station. Those planning on doing multiple trips on the Meitetsu Line may wish to consider a Meitetsu Rail Pass

https://www.meitetsu.co.jp/eng/train/Ticket/special/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2021/07/21/meitetsu_special_discount_tickets.pdf

Bonus Tip: Families with young children may like to check out Haramatsu Park, which features somewhat dated but unique-looking play equipment.

2. Gifu.

Boasting a stunning hilltop castle, lovely parks and gardens, and some incredible temples and shrines, the city of Gifu is certain to impress visitors.

Journey Duration: Trains take around 35 minutes from Meitetsu Nagoya to Meitetsu Gifu. Alternatively, a JR Line train from Nagoya to Gifu will be about 25 minutes.
Highlights - Gifu: Nobunga Plaza, Mizobata Park and Shrine, Kashimori Park (viewpoint), Inaba Shrine (pictured), Gifu Park, Kawara-machi Historic Street, Japan-China Friendship Garden, Kogane Shrine.
Rail Pass: A JR Pass can be used between Nagoya and Gifu for those travelling on the JR Line. Alternatively, the Meitetsu Train Pass is good for travel between Meitetsu Nagoya and Meitetsu Gifu.
Bonus Tip: Those planning on travel to Tokoname and/or Inuyama should consider the 2-Day Meitetsu Rail Pass (¥4,000), which covers travel on the entire Meitetsu Line over 2 consecutive days.

3. Gero.

Within the mountains of Central Japan lies the city of Gero where visitors are treated to spectacular scenery all around. Whether it be to enjoy one of the many excellent dining options, relax in one of the many onsen, or just stroll about, a trip to Gero is certain to be enjoyed.

Journey Duration: The trip between Nagoya Station and Gero Station will take about 1 hour and 40 minutes by Shinkansen (no transfer needed).
Highlights: Atano Street (pictured), Sarubobo Shichifuku Shrine (dedicated to Japan's iconic Sarubobo Dolls), Osenji, Gero Onsen Gassho Village, Ujo Park, and several free public footbaths.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for travel between Nagoya Station and Gero Station.
Bonus Tip: Remember to bring a small towel to dry off after using the foot bath.

4. Inuyama.

A short train ride from Nagoya, on the banks of the Kiso River, lies Inuyama. The city, which boasts many attractions - including an impressive hilltop castle, certainly makes for a worthwhile day trip from Nagoya.

Journey Duration: A train between Meitetsu Nagoya and Inuyama will take around 30 to 40 minutes.
Highlights: Daishoji Temple, Haritsuna Shrine, Sankoinari Shrine, Inuyama Castle, Urakuen Japanese Garden, Inuyama Jokamachi, Inuyama Castle Town Showa Alley, and Senshoji.
Rail Pass: A Meitetsu Rail Pass is valid for travel on this route. Alternatively, purchase a ticket or use an IC card.
Bonus Tip: Those wishing to make use of a JR Rail Pass can take a JR Line Train from Nagoya to Unuma and walk from there.