Things To Do
in Nagakute
Nagakute is a tranquil city just east of Nagoya, where green spaces and suburban charm meet easy access to urban amenities. It grew around parklands and former Expo sites, offering a peaceful base for day trips into the wider Aichi region. The area blends modern family-friendly neighborhoods with scenic lakes and forest trails perfect for outdoor lovers.
Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy cultural events, seasonal markets, and Nagoya-influenced cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll through Nagakute Park, a beautifully landscaped area that offers various walking trails lined with cherry blossom trees. As you wander, take the time to enjoy the serene pond and the sculptures scattered throughout the park. Don't forget to stop by the local café for a delicious breakfast featuring traditional Japanese pastries.
After lunch, visit the Aichi Prefectural Art Museum located nearby, where you can appreciate modern and traditional Japanese art. This museum often features interactive exhibits, allowing you to immerse yourself in the creativity that the region has to offer. Following your artistic exploration, unwind at a local tea shop and savor the flavors of matcha tea.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for dinner and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Japanese-style pub dining. Enjoy a variety of small dishes, paired with sake, as you mingle and exchange stories with locals. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, taking in the charm of Nagakute at night.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Tokugawa Art Museum, where you can learn about the samurai culture and admire invaluable artifacts. The museum's beautiful gardens provide a tranquil backdrop for a morning stroll, allowing you to soak in the rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a light, traditional Japanese breakfast offered at café.
In the afternoon, travel to the historic village of Meiji Mura, an open-air museum showcasing architecture from the Meiji and Taisho periods. Here, you can walk through time as you explore preserved buildings and experience the lifestyle of the bygone era. Climb aboard one of the charming trams to see the village from a different perspective.
As evening approaches, make your way back to Nagakute for dinner at a local restaurant known for its regional specialties. Relish in an authentic kaiseki meal, featuring beautifully presented seasonal dishes. End your night at a nearby onsen, where you can soak in the therapeutic hot springs and unwind.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚇Transit ticket (single ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Nagoya and easy access to urban amenities
- Pleasant parks and nature close by
- Solid mix of culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities
- Less nightlife compared to central Nagoya
- Some areas have limited English signage
- Public transport may require transfers for distant sites
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "〜はどこですか？" - Where is ~?
- "お願いします" - Please
Places to Visit in Nagakute
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide, tranquil lake framed by trees; ideal for early morning reflections and golden hour silhouettes.
Historic pavilions and open lawns provide nostalgic, architectural photo opportunities with a touch of history.
Piers and riverside scenes offer dynamic compositions, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Nagakute
Nagakute Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Nagoya-style grilled eel over rice, served with dashi-based broth and toppings; a must-try when in the area.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried pork cutlet bathed in a rich red miso sauce; a Nagoya staple with a distinctive umami kick.
Flat, chewy udon-like noodles in a light broth, often enjoyed with toppings like tempura or scallions.
Savory fried chicken wings glazed with a peppery, sweet sauce; popular in Nagoya eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering seasonal produce, regional snacks, and handmade goods; a good place to sample fresh produce and small bites.
Casual stalls near park entrances offering yakitori, taiyaki, and other quick bites for a picnic or stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress neatly in public; wait in orderly lines, especially on trains and at popular attractions.
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces; use provided slippers where offered.
Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice; place on a rest or across the bowl when not in use.
Safety
Tipping in Nagakute
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; high service is expected, and a polite thank-you is appreciated instead.
Cash and credit cards are widely accepted; IC cards (e.g., Suica, ICOCA) are convenient for transit and many shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with warm afternoons; cherry blossoms and fresh greenery create vibrant cityscapes and park runs.
Hot and humid with occasional rain; carry water, wear sun protection, and seek shade in parks.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; perfect for hiking and sunset photography.
Mild to cool with rare frosts; fewer crowds, but some attractions may operate on reduced hours.
Nagakute at Night
Hiking in Nagakute
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with temples, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks in the Sanage mountains.
Ridge hike offering forest scenery and seasonal viewpoints near Nagakute.
Airports
How to reach Nagakute by plane.
Major international airport located in Tokoname City, about 40-50 minutes from Nagakute by train or car.
Domestic and regional flights, closer to Nagoya; accessible via subway and bus connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Safe neighborhoods and good schools; many residents commute to Nagoya for work.
Nearby universities and schools bring a youthful presence; language exchange and study groups are common.
A growing expatriate community attracted by proximity to Nagoya and English-friendly services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of the region with local leagues and spring training culture.
Local clubs and amateur leagues are active; Nagoya hosts national matches at regional venues.
Common in schools and community centers with local pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nagakute.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dashi-based broths are common in Japanese cooking; look for dishes featuring tofu, grilled vegetables, tempura, or rice bowls. Many spots can adapt dishes with careful requests.