From Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan Oldest Castle

Overview

Available languages

English

7 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

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. Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword. Meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife. Stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food and find locally crafted souvenirs. Discover the well-preserved Inuyama Castle—a National Treasure and historically significant stronghold of the Oda clan. Wish for good fortune in a shrine legend to grant wishes. Sip matcha tea in a garden designed by one of Japan’s pioneers of tea ceremony. Journey to Central Japan and experience its pristine rivers, skilled craftsmen, and historic towns as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide on this full-day tour from Nagoya.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time between destinations included in the total duration of the tour

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Knife Sharpening Experience

Transportation during the tour

English speaking guide

Matcha Experience

Admissions to all facilities listed in the itinerary

Lunch

Accommodation

What To Expect

Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum

We will arrive in Seki where you will visit a small shrine dedicated to blacksmithing before learning more about the history and process of swordsmithing at the Seki Swordsmith Museum. Enjoy a hands-on experience where you will learn how to sharpen a Japanese kitchen knife. You will then have time to shop for a knife of your own or other locally crafted wares.

2 hours 30 minutes•Admission Included

Inuyama

Your guide will give you a tour of Inuyama’s townscape before a bit of free time to grab lunch at one of the town’s many restaurants, or go off and explore more on your own.

1 hour 15 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Roundtrip from Nagoya Station

Reviews

4.88

8 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

This trip was truly...
Thomas T,
Jul 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This trip was truly incredible and Kim was one of a kind! Being able to learn how to sharpen my Japanese knives, learn the history of the Nagoya area, and a surprise of being able to see blacksmiths in the early process of making a sword was a true treat! Kim, being from New York, had such an incredible knowledge of the area! She also could help navigate us well and was the best tour guide I’ve ever had. My wife wanted to do this and I wasn’t sold, but it was way better than we ever imagined. It’s a must do for people who like history and love Japanese knife and sword making.
Put this activity on your ‘Must Do While in Japan’ list!
WendyR F,
Aug 29, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Ms. Kim’s knowledge and genuine desire to ensure a premium experience contributed to a phenomenal day! The tour company provided a driver so Ms. Kim only needed to help us appreciate and enjoy a day’s immersion into swords/shoguns/samurai! My appreciation for the attention to detail and commitment to perfection embedded in the art of bladesmithing presented through the sword museum we personally highlighted in a hands-on session with a blade sharpening sensei! The city of Seki is a hidden gem! Full of history and expressive temples, and very kind people without the hustle and bustle (or crowds) of the big city. Ms. Kim brought the family drama and politics to life with her curated explanation of the historical significance of the remaining samurai castles - their military/political significance and turbulent ownership. I highly recommend this tour if you like blades, great historical artifacts, and this tour company for service quality.