Day Trip from Nagoya: Explore Inuyama Castle and Its Charming Castle Town

Inuyama Castle is one of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden castle keeps and a designated National Treasure. Just 30 minutes from Nagoya by train, it’s an ideal day-trip destination. From the panoramic views atop the tenshu (main keep) to the lively castle town filled with food stalls and traditional streetscapes, visitors can enjoy history, scenery, and local flavors all in a single day.

History & Background

Built in 1537, Inuyama Castle is among the oldest original castles in Japan. For centuries it was home to the Naruse family and played an important role in regional history, including events connected to the battles of Komaki and Nagakute. Its wooden keep retains the atmosphere of the Sengoku period, making it a precious cultural landmark that attracts visitors from across Japan and abroad.

Highlights & What to Expect

The top floor of the castle keep offers sweeping views of the Kiso River, surrounding mountains, and the traditional townscape below.At the foot of the castle lies Inuyama Castle Town, a bustling district lined with shops, cafés, and street-food vendors offering local favorites such as skewers, sweets, and craft drinks.Nearby attractions include Sanko Inari Shrine—famous for its heart-shaped ema—and Haritsuna Shrine, as well as cultural facilities like the Karakuri Exhibition Hall and Donden-kan.

Suggested Day Trip Itinerary from Nagoya（New Section）

9:00 — Depart Nagoya Station

Take the Meitetsu Line to Inuyama Station.

• Limited Express: about 25 minutes
• Rapid/Express: about 35 minutes
  From the station, it’s roughly a 15-minute walk to the castle town.

10:00 — Explore Inuyama Castle Town

The street is lined with beautifully preserved traditional buildings, now home to trendy cafes and local craft shops.

Highlights

• Street Food Paradise:
  Famous for its “Tabearuki” (eating while walking). Don’t miss the photogenic colorful dango or delicious Hida Beef Nigiri.
• Sanko Inari Shrine:
  Located at the end of the street, this shrine is a must-visit for its famous wall of pink heart-shaped votive tablets.

11:30 — Visit Inuyama Castle (National Treasure)

Built in 1537, Inuyama Castle is one of Japan’s oldest original castles and a designated National Treasure. Unlike reconstructed castles, its authentic wooden interior and steep stairs offer a true samurai-era experience.

• Top Floor View
  Step onto the wooden balcony for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Kiso River and the surrounding mountains.
• Original Structure
  Experience the rare opportunity to walk through a fortress that has stood the test of time for centuries.

13:00 — Lunch Break

1. Matsuno-ya

A legendary restaurant specialized in Dengaku (miso-glazed tofu) since the Edo period. It offers a truly authentic, nostalgic atmosphere.

• Menu: The “Dengaku Course” (rice, soup, and tofu skewers) is the standard choice.
• Address: 28-1 Inuyama-Kitakubizuka, Inuyama-shi [map]
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (L.O. 2:30 PM) *Closes when sold out.
• Closed: Thursday
• Payment: Cash , Credit card , etc.

2. Honmachi Saryo

Experience a perfect blend of tradition and modern flair in this beautifully renovated 100-year-old townhouse, where you can enjoy authentic local flavors like colorful “Dengaku” tofu in a nostalgic, photogenic setting.

• Address 673 Inuyama-higashikoken, Inuyama-shi, Aichi[map]
• Hours 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed Open daily (Irregular holidays may apply)
• Price Range ¥1,000 – ¥2,000
• Payment Cash and E-money only
• Url https://savorjapan.com/0006139639/menus

14:30 — Cultural Spots & Museums

• Karakuri Mechanical Puppet Hall　[map]
• Donden-kan (featuring floats from the Inuyama Festival)[map]
  Perfect for history lovers or those wanting a deeper look at local culture.

16:00 — Return to Nagoya

Pick up souvenirs before heading back to Inuyama Station.
You’ll arrive in Nagoya around 17:00, completing a relaxing and well-paced day trip.

How to get to Inuyama from Nagoya Station

Taking the Meitetsu Line is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Inuyama.

1. At Nagoya Station Head to the Meitetsu Nagoya Station (distinct from the JR station). Look for the red Meitetsu logo.
2. Take the Train Board any Limited Express (Tokkyu) or Express (Kyuko) train bound for Inuyama or Shin-Unuma.
3. Arrival
   • For the town and castle: Get off at Inuyama Station or Inuyamayuen Station.
   • Inuyama Station is best for the historic castle town (showa-era streets).
   • Inuyamayuen Station is slightly closer to the entrance of Inuyama Castle.

• Total Time: Approx. 25–35 minutes
• Total Fare: ¥570
• Note: All major IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, manaca) are accepted.

Pro-Tip: If you take the Limited Express (Tokkyu), some cars require a reserved seat ticket (called a “μ-Ticket”) for an extra ¥450. Look for the “General Cars” (Ordinary cars) to travel with just your base fare or IC card.