Aichi in Half a Day: Strolled around Tokugawaen — Guide Taku

What Is a Private Nagoya Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and Tokugawa Garden

I met the guests at 11:00 at their hotel. At the start of the tour, the guests wanted to learn about me as their guide, about Nagoya, and about the current situation in Japan, so we sat in the hotel lobby and had a pleasant chat. I introduced myself, gave an overview of Nagoya City, and spoke for about 20 minutes about the current situation in Japan, including the economy, the declining birthrate, and the aging society. After getting their agreement to travel using a one-day subway and bus pass, we headed to Nagoya Castle. The guests had requested Nagoya Castle plus one or two other places, so I decided on Tokugawa Garden and the Tokugawa Art Museum. However, the guests took many photos at Nagoya Castle, enjoyed ice cream together, and liked to make little detours, so it took two hours to tour the castle. We had planned to take the city bus to Tokugawa Garden, but the guests said they were tired and wanted to go by taxi, so we traveled by taxi. Along the way there was traffic congestion due to an accident, so the trip took a little longer. After walking through Tokugawa Garden, we had planned to visit the Tokugawa Art Museum, but the guests said they were tired and wanted to relax there a little more before heading back, so they asked me to end the tour there. I offered to let them relax and then take them back to the hotel afterward, saying they did not need to worry about the time, but they wished to spend the time on their own, so I told them where the taxi stand was and ended the tour. The guests had arrived from North America late the previous night, so they seemed tired and moved very slowly, and with all the little detours, everything took quite a long time. We were only able to visit two places, but I believe it went well since I was able to follow the guests' wishes. A notable stop on the tour was Nagoya Castle. Nagoya Castle is one of the most famous castles in Japan, originally built in the early Edo period under the order of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is well known for its golden shachihoko (mythical fish ornaments) that adorn the roof of the main keep, as well as the beautifully reconstructed Honmaru Palace with its exquisite paintings and detailed craftsmanship.

Click here for more details: Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

Tour Report by TAKU

Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.

It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.