Nagoya’s central location in Japan makes it an excellent base for a variety of day trips, offering a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are some noteworthy destinations easily accessible from Nagoya:
1. Takayama
Known for its well-preserved old town, Takayama offers a glimpse into traditional Japan with its historic wooden houses, sake breweries, and morning markets. The scenic train journey from Nagoya takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the JR Hida Limited Express to Takayama Station (around 2 hours 30 minutes). The train ride offers scenic views of the Japanese Alps.
2. Shirakawa-go
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go is famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses. While it requires a longer trip, organized tours from Nagoya make it feasible as a day excursion.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the JR Hida Limited Express to Takayama Station (2 hours 30 minutes), then transfer to the Nohi Bus to Shirakawa-go (50 minutes). Reservations for the bus are recommended.
3. Ise-Shima
Home to the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines, Ise-Shima also offers beautiful coastal scenery and fresh seafood. The area is about a 1.5 to 2-hour train ride from Nagoya.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express to Iseshi Station (1 hour 30 minutes). From here, Ise Grand Shrine and other attractions are easily accessible by local buses.
4. Inuyama
Just a 25-minute train ride from Nagoya, Inuyama boasts one of Japan’s oldest original castles and the scenic Kiso River. The town also features the Meiji Mura open-air museum, showcasing Meiji-era architecture.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line to Inuyama Station (30 minutes). Inuyama Castle is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
5. Gifu
A short train ride away, Gifu offers attractions like Gifu Castle atop Mount Kinka and traditional cormorant fishing on the Nagara River during summer months.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the JR Tokaido Line to Gifu Station (20 minutes) or the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to Meitetsu Gifu Station (30 minutes). Buses from the station provide access to Gifu Castle and the Nagara River area.
6. Magome and Tsumago
These post towns along the Nakasendo Trail provide a picturesque hiking experience through historic settings. Accessible by train and bus, they offer a serene escape into Japan’s past.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the JR Chuo Line to Nakatsugawa Station (50 minutes), then transfer to a local bus to Magome (25 minutes). To visit Tsumago, take another bus or hike the scenic Nakasendo Trail (around 2-3 hours).
6. Tokoname
Tokoname is a historic pottery town renowned for its ceramic production, particularly its traditional teapots and tiles. Visitors can explore the Pottery Footpath, a scenic walking trail that showcases ceramic sculptures, old kilns, and pottery shops. The town also hosts the INAX Tile Museum, offering insights into the history and art of tile-making.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Meitetsu Tokoname Line to Tokoname Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
7. Nabana no Sato
Nabana no Sato is a botanical garden famous for its seasonal flower displays and one of Japan’s largest illumination events during the winter months. The park features expansive gardens, a large greenhouse, and a pond that reflects the stunning light displays.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Kintetsu Nagoya Line to Kuwana Station (approximately 20 minutes), then transfer to a direct bus to Nabana no Sato, which takes about 10 minutes.
8. Sakushima Island
Known as the “Island of Art,” Sakushima features various outdoor art installations set against a backdrop of traditional fishing village scenery. It’s accessible by a combination of train and ferry from Nagoya.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Meitetsu Tokoname Line to Nishio Station (50 minutes), then take a bus to Isshiki Port (20 minutes). From the port, a ferry to Sakushima Island takes around 20 minutes.
10. Kyoto
While slightly farther, Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, including temples, shrines, and traditional districts, is reachable within 37 minutes by Shinkansen from Nagoya, making it feasible for a day trip.
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Shinkansen (Tokaido Line) to Kyoto Station (about 35 minutes by Nozomi or 50 minutes by Hikari). Once in Kyoto, local buses, trains, and subways provide access to major attractions.
These destinations provide diverse experiences, from historical sites and cultural immersion to natural beauty, all within easy reach of Nagoya.
