Digging deep into the charm of Aichi Prefecture from a female perspective! Amazing views and hidden spots I experienced
The charm of Aichi Prefecture and my secret sights
Charm of Aichi Prefecture: A place where the city and nature merge
Aichi Prefecture is known as a place with a rich history and culture. A major feature of Aichi is the harmony between urban areas centered on Nagoya City and areas rich in nature. When you visit this prefecture, you will be able to encounter a landscape that perfectly combines the hustle and bustle of the city with the quietness of the suburbs, a perfect combination of the charms of Japan.
Nagoya City: A City Where Modernity and History Coexist
Nagoya City is a business center where major companies have their headquarters. However, there are also historical sights such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. The place that left the biggest impression on me was “Osu Kannon” in the center of Nagoya city. You can feel the charm of Nagoya, where history and modernity coexist, with an old shopping street and the latest cafes and shops.
Aichi’s hidden attractions with nature
If you go a little further from the center of the city, Aichi Prefecture has a lot of beautiful nature. I especially recommend “Komakiyama” in “Inuyama City”. On average, it receives about 100,000 tourists a year, making it a little-known spot compared to other attractions. The view from here is truly spectacular! You can enjoy the scenery of each season, especially the cherry blossom season in spring.
Excellent gourmet food is also a charm of Aichi!
The charm of Aichi Prefecture is not limited to scenery. Hitsumabushi and miso katsu, which are famous Nagoya specialties, will please the taste buds of visitors. What impressed me the most was the hitsumabushi at Atsuta Horaiken near Nagoya Station. Once you taste it, you will never forget its exquisite taste.
Exploring culture and history in Aichi Prefecture, and interacting with the locals
Aichi’s deep history: Following in the footsteps of the heroes of the Sengoku period
Aichi Prefecture is a region that became the stage for many warlords during the Warring States period. Among them, the stories of the three great heroes Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu are deeply colored in the history of this area. I visited Okazaki Castle, which is known as the birthplace of Ieyasu Tokugawa. When you visit this castle, you can feel close to the great achievements and lifestyles of the warlords of that time.
Traditional Culture of Aichi: Ceramics and Traditional Crafts
Seto City, located in the eastern part of Aichi Prefecture, is a production area of ceramics known as “Seto ware”. I had the opportunity to visit a traditional potter’s studio and experience making pottery. It was a very special experience to use your hands to mold the clay and take home your own baked work.
Interacting with Locals: Aichi’s Heartwarming Hospitality
What impressed me the most during my trip to Aichi was the deep spirit of hospitality that I felt while interacting with the locals. At the long-established coffee shop Yamamoto Coffee in Nagoya, I had the opportunity to talk with the owner’s grandmother. Her story conveyed the pride and love of the local people, as well as their consideration for visitors. Such experiences can be said to be the greatest treasures that can be obtained during a trip.
The ultimate activity in Aichi and discovering more hidden gems
Activity: Enjoy the great outdoors of Aichi
Beautiful beaches and diving spots are scattered along the coast of Aichi Prefecture. In particular, “Irago Beach” located on the Atsumi Peninsula has high transparency and is the best place for diving and snorkeling. When I was snorkeling at this beach, I encountered fish of various colors and shapes. In addition, there is also “Irago Cape” nearby, and it is also known as a spot where the sunset is beautiful.
Beautiful parks: feel the four seasons of Aichi
In Aichi Prefecture, there are many parks where you can enjoy the beauty of each season. “Aichi Health Forest Park” in “Higashiura Town” is one of my favorite places. Cherry blossoms in the spring, fresh greenery in the summer, red leaves in the fall, and snowy landscapes in the winter.
Landmarks in History: Deeply Exploring Aichi’s History Again
As a place that I decided to revisit, I will mention “Inuyama Castle” in “Inuyama City”. This castle is known as a castle with Japan’s oldest wooden castle tower, which is designated as a national treasure. The view from the top of the castle is spectacular, and you can overlook the townscape of Inuyama City and the Kiso River.
Local delicacies: gastronomy rediscovered
Aichi Prefecture has many traditional dishes and sweets. I decided to revisit Owari Mochi in Ichinomiya City. This is a traditional Japanese confectionery made with glutinous rice, and the combination of lightly sweetened red bean paste and mochi is exquisite.
Aichi trip summary and next recommendation
If you want to express the charm of Aichi in one word
The most attractive thing that I felt when I traveled to Aichi is “diversity”. Aichi Prefecture is rich in diversity in all genres, including history, culture, nature, and gourmet, and that is one of the great attractions of this area.
Recommended place for next time: The superb view of the Chita Peninsula
A little-known spot in Aichi Prefecture that I recommend is the Chita Peninsula. This is a place that attracts visitors with its spectacular seaside scenery, fresh seafood, and quiet hot spring resorts. In particular, Himakajima Island is famous for its beautiful beaches and cycling courses, and when I visited it, I felt truly healed.
The Secret of Aichi Travel: Slowly and Deeply
The trick when traveling in Aichi Prefecture is to take your time and explore deeply. In this prefecture, where various charms are condensed, it is difficult to get a sense of its essence just by visiting it superficially. The key to getting the best Aichi experience is to cherish each place and encounter, and proceed with your trip while feeling it with your heart.
My trip to Aichi was an unforgettable and precious experience for me. In order to fully convey its charm, words alone may not be enough. However, if reading this article sparks even a little interest in Aichi Prefecture and the desire to visit it, it would be my greatest pleasure. Next time, we will travel to even more places in order to convey the charms of various parts of Japan. Everyone, please look forward to the next article!
Historical building chosen by Kasumi
Aichi Prefecture has many historical buildings that enrich the history of Japan. I, Kasumi, would like to introduce five historical buildings that have particularly moved me. Each building will be accompanied by a “Kasumi Point” to convey its charm.
Okazaki Castle (Okazaki City)
Kasumi Point: Known as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, this is an important castle that conveys the history of the Sengoku period. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and their beauty fascinates visitors.
Inuyama Castle (Inuyama City)
Kasumi Point: A castle with Japan’s oldest wooden castle tower, designated as a national treasure. In addition to its historical value, the view from the castle is superb, and you can enjoy the atmosphere of each season.
Osu Kannon (Naka Ward, Nagoya City)
Kasumi Point: Despite being located in the center of Nagoya City, this temple has a long history and is bustling with many believers and tourists. Combined with the surrounding Osu shopping street, you can enjoy history and modern culture.
Futagoyama Burial Mound (Nisshin City)
Kasumi Point: This is the largest burial mound in Aichi Prefecture and is said to date back to the 6th century. It is a place where you can enjoy the surrounding natural environment while feeling the ancient history.
Arako Kannonji Temple (Seto City)
Kasumi Point: This temple in Seto City is also known for its autumn foliage. It is a place of tranquility where old traditions and natural beauty come together.
These buildings are a valuable presence that strongly conveys the history and culture of Aichi Prefecture. When visiting, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll while feeling the weight and background of its history.
