Located in the heart of Japan with easy access from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, Nagoya is a large city with a diverse food scene, exciting history, great access to nature, and a bit of something for everyone. Nagoya has a lot to offer travelers on its own, but one of Nagoya's greatest strengths when it comes to travel is that it is well positioned for day trips outside of the city.
So we would like to share with you some of our favorite destinations that make for great day trips from Nagoya.
Where is Nagoya?
Nagoya is located almost exactly halfway between Tokyo and Osaka. With Ise Bay to the south, the Hida Highlands to the North, and easy access to the many castle towns along the Nakasendo and Tokaido roads to the east and west, Nagoya makes for a great base offering easy access to a wide range of day trips. And while many international visitors pass through Nagoya en route to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond without thinking to stop—those who do will find Nagoya to be the ideal location for travelers who wish to avoid the crowds and discover the hidden charms of Japan for themselves.
Best Day Trip Destinations from Nagoya
Here are some of our favorite destinations perfect for day trips from Nagoya, as well as our recommended tours offering round-trip transportation and professional local guides.
1. Ise Grand Shrine
- Best time to visit: Spring or Autumn (April to June, or October to December) for pleasant weather.
Ise Grand Shrine is considered Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, with a history spanning over 2,000 years, it is revered not only for its religious importance but also for its architecture. The shrine is rebuilt every 20 years in a tradition known as Shikinen Sengu but the construction and design remains unchanged.
If you are curious about Shintoism or Japanese mythology, Ise Shrine is a location you can't miss. And after you are done visiting the shrine, be sure to check out the shopping street next to the shrine filled with restaurants, street vendors, and souvenir shops.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines provides you with the chance to marvel at the natural beauty of the Ise-Shima region and refresh your body and soul with spiritual experiences and delicious cuisine as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
2. Nakasendo Trail & Magome
- Best time to visit: Autumn (October to December) for colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.
The Nakasendo Trail, often referred to as the "Samurai Road," is a historic route that once connected Kyoto to Edo (Tokyo) during the Edo Period. Along the trail, many post towns remain relatively unchanged since the Edo era.
Magome (or Magome-juku) is one of the most picturesque post towns along this trail, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past with its cobblestone paths, wooden inns, and mountain scenery. Walking the trail between Magome and Tsumago (one of the best-preserved towns) allows travelers to experience a peaceful hike through forests, streams, and quiet villages, while reflecting on centuries of history and getting a chance to imagine what it would have been like for travelers in Edo era Japan.
Recommended Tour: Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku on Snow Monkey Resort's highly rated 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail.
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
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- Nagoya
3. Takayama & Shirakawago
- Best time to visit: Winter (December to February) for snow-covered scenes, especially in Shirakawago.
Hidden deep within the mountains of Central Japan, Takayama is a beautifully preserved Edo-period town known for its traditional merchant houses, morning markets, and festivals. Nearby Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. Together, they offer a wonderful escape into rural Japan, a look at Japanese architecture, and really good wagyu beef.
Recommended Tour: Savor the views of the Japanese countryside as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go. This tour takes you into the famed thatched-roof houses of UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawa-go as your guide shares the history (and dramas) of Edo-era life in this remote mountain village.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
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- Nagoya
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- Nagoya
4. Inuyama Castle Town | Home to Japan's Oldest Castle
- Best time to visit: Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms around the castle.
Inuyama Castle is not only a National Treasure and historically significant stronghold of the Oda clan, but also Japan's oldest original castle, dating back to 1537. Perched above the Kiso River, it provides stunning panoramic views and a rare chance to explore an authentic feudal stronghold.
Along with visiting the castle, you can stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can sample a wide array of street food as the town is famous for everything on a stick! The town of Inuyama also houses a second, lesser known, national treasure: the Jo-an Tea House. There you can sip matcha tea in a garden designed by one of Japan’s pioneers of tea ceremony.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan's Oldest Castle.
Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword, meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife, and stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food under the shadow of Japan's oldest original castle.
5. Hikone & Omi Hachiman
- Best time to visit: Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms around the castle or Summer (late May to July) for irises along the banks of Omi Hachiman canal.
Hikone Castle, another original castle from the Edo period, is one of the five national treasure castles. Hikone is highly regarded for its beautiful gardens and moats. In the spring, the cherry blossoms blooming around the castle's moats is a sight not to be missed.
Nearby, Omi Hachiman is a canal town with preserved merchant architecture and a unique fusion of Western and Japanese influences due to its missionary history. The area is also home to the oldest brand of wagyu beef in Japan as well as one of the country’s most unique sweet shops, La Collina.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Castles and Canals in Hikone and Omi Hachiman will take you to two castle towns, Hikone, with one of the oldest castles in Japan, and Omi Hachiman, known for its charming canals. Taste Matcha, relax in peaceful gardens, and soak in the scenery as you are led by your experienced, English-speaking guide through this picturesque region of Japan.
6. Iga & Koka | The Home of Ninja
- Best time to visit: Anytime! These are great year-round destinations.
Iga and Koka are renowned as the twin birthplaces of ninja heritage in Japan. There are few historical organizations shrouded in as many myths, legends, and misconceptions as ninjas. But in these towns you'll have a chance to experience hands-on activities and discover and insights into the real history of ninja—far removed from pop culture portrayals.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Myths and Mystery of Ninja and the Tokaido Road not only gives insight into the daily lives of ninja but also takes you along the most important route of Edo-era Japan, the Tokaido road, as you are led by an experienced English-speaking guide on a full-day tour from Nagoya.
7. Nishio | Home to Japan's Premium Matcha
- Best time to visit: Early summer (May to June) during the tea harvest season.
Located in the outskirts of Nagoya, Nishio is Japan’s leading producer of premium matcha green tea. Offering a slower, more personal alternative to the better-known Uji or Shizuoka regions, in Nishio you can participate in tea ceremonies, explore tea farms, and even grind matcha for yourself. It’s a perfect destination for matcha lovers, foodies, and anyone interested in learning more about Japanese tea.
Recommended Tour: Step away from the hustle of modern Japan and into a world where centuries-old traditions meet unparalleled craftsmanship on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Matcha, Confections, and Traditions in Nishio.
From crafting your own tea ceremony sweets to a behind the scenes look at the production of premium quality matcha, this tour will take you deeper into one of Japan’s most treasured traditions than ever before. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur, a culinary enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this is an opportunity to experience Japan in a way that few ever do.
8. Kamikochi
- Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to October); closed during winter due to heavy snow.
Kamikochi is a highland valley within the Japanese Alps, known for its dramatic mountain scenery, crystal-clear rivers, and pristine hiking trails. Often described as one of Japan’s most beautiful natural treasures, Kamikochi is found in the southern half of Chubu Sangaku National Park (Japan's third largest national park).
Popular with nature lovers, it offers a base for alpine treks or leisurely strolls amid birch forests and wildflower fields. Because of its protected status, Kamikochi maintains a sense of untouched wilderness rarely found elsewhere. Plus, visitors often get a chance to see wild monkeys!
Recommended Tour: Escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Japan Alps on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi – Enchanting Landscapes & Seasonal Beauty.
This tour takes you to a vibrant flower park, a charming mountain farm, and the iconic Kamikochi region of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Hike the well-maintained trails to Kappa-bashi and capture stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Korankei Valley
- Best time to visit: Mid to late November for peak autumn colors.
Nestled in the mountainous region of Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Korankei Valley is one of Japan’s most renowned scenic spots for autumn foliage. This picturesque gorge, draws visitors year-round with its breathtaking natural beauty and charming historic townscape. Particularly famous for its maple trees and the annual momiji (autumn leaves) festival, Korankei is a wonderful destination for photographers, hikers, and anyone looking for an easy nature-filled day trip from Nagoya.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Korankei Gorge & Fox Shrines—A Photographer's Paradise is not only a photographer’s dream, taking you to some of Nagoya’s most photogenic spots, but also offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and timeless beauty.
Travel to the iconic Toyokawa Inari Shrine and capture the serene beauty of its one thousand stone foxes. Marvel at the natural beauty of Korankei Gorge, one of Japan’s top spots for autumn foliage, where the vibrant colors of over 4,000 maple trees reflect off the tranquil waters. Explore Sanshu Asuke Yashiki Village, a picturesque open-air museum, where rural charms and traditional crafts await.
10. Gujo Hachiman
- Best time to visit: Summer (July to September), especially during Gujo Odori or winter (December to February) for snowy scenery.
Surrounded by a mountain river network, Gujo‑Hachiman is renowned for its pristine waterways and traditional architecture. The town is also known for making the hyper-realistic food replicas you see outside all the restaurants around Japan
In summer, the town hosts its famous Bon Odori dance festival, which runs for 30+ nights, drawing locals and travelers alike. Visitors can also observe artisan dyeing processes, tour the local castle, or try their hand making Gujo's famed food replicas.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a family-friendly journey on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Gujo Hachiman’s Crafting Culture & Castle in the Clouds to Gujo Hachiman, a small-yet-picturesque mountain village nicknamed "Little Kyoto" where Japan’s exceptional craftsmanship and timeless traditions come alive.
11. Tokoname & Arimatsu
- Best time to visit: Spring or autumn (April–May or October–November) for pleasant weather as you walk through the towns.
Tokoname is one of Japan’s six ancient kiln towns, known for its high-quality ceramics and walking trails lined with climbing kilns and pottery walls. Arimatsu, on the other hand, is a historic town famed for shibori (tie-dye textile) production dating back to the Edo period. Together, these towns are a great destination for crafters and those interested in Japan's traditional industries.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Crafting Traditions in Tokoname and Arimatsu offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and local charm, as you are led by an experienced, English speaking guide through two towns famous for their artistic traditions.
12. Soni Highlands & Akame 48 Waterfalls
- Best time to visit: Autumn (October to December) for colorful foliage and golden pampas grass.
Located in Nara Prefecture, Soni Highlands feature sweeping grasslands and rolling hills that turn golden in autumn, creating one of the most photogenic landscapes in Central Japan. With well-maintained hiking trails and picnic tables, Soni is a perfect for nature lovers and hikers and a wonderful escape from the cities.
Nearby, the Akame 48 Waterfalls is a series of cascading streams hidden in forest once used for training ninjas. The area is also home to the Japanese Giant Salamanders, making the location ideal for hiker and nature lovers. These spots are less crowded, making them perfect for off-the-beaten-path explorers.
Recommended Tour: Take an unforgettable journey into one of Japan’s most stunning and ecologically diverse regions with Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soni Highlands Eco-Adventure & Giant Salamanders.
Not only will you discover the majestic, natural beauty of Central Japan and the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation of this exceptional landscape—ensuring that it remains a safe haven for wildlife and future explorers alike.
Multi-day Itineraries from Nagoya
One of the hardest aspects of planning an international trip is figuring out how to connect all the exciting locations you want to visit. While Japan has some of the best public transportation systems in the world, it can still be a pain to plan out your routes and the amount of time required to get to where you want to go.
That's where our connectable day tour system comes in!
Snow Monkey Resorts’ connectable tours let you build your own custom itinerary across Japan—one day at a time. Each tour is designed to link smoothly to the next, with convenient transport (including luggage handling), multiple drop-off locations, and flexible pacing. You can mix and match tours based on your interests—whether it's cultural sites, nature, adventure, or anime—and travel at your own speed. You can even build in rest or shopping days without a guide. No rigid schedules, no backtracking, and full English support from a trusted, award-winning local team.
With our connectable tours, you can begin a tour in Nagoya and finish in another city with no need to double back or navigate complex rail transfers with luggage in tow.
For example:
- Start your day hiking the Nakasendo Trail and end in Matsumoto or Nagano—your bags come with you in the tour vehicle.
- Then the next day, join our award winning Snow Monkey Tour or take the day to explore on your own!
We also offer custom private charters with certified drivers for more control over timing, routes, or stops.
Need some inspiration? Our team has put together some example itineraries to demonstrate the multiple ways you can travel around Japan using our connectable day tours. Check out the itineraries below or browse our itinerary page to get started planning your custom trip to Japan.
Example Itineraries from Nagoya
Private Tours and Charters from Nagoya
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
PRIVATE TOURS
In addition to providing transportation, we can also accommodate your tour needs by providing guides with the itinerary of your choice. If there are tours that you want us to conduct or if you want to adjust our current tours to your needs, feel free to contact us. There are a number of private tours already on our website that allow you to enjoy our tours without the stress of having to worry about other guests, so check those out, too. Click on the button below to make an inquiry.
