Departing from Nagoya, Easily Explore the Highlights of Central Japan - Leverage Meitetsu for an In-depth Journey Through the Tokai Region
NAGOYA, Japan, July 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the number of inbound tourists to Japan surges, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) reported that by May 2025, the number of international visitors had reached 10,537,300, marking the fastest breakthrough of 10 million in history. In particular, the proportion of repeat visitors from Asia has risen, shifting focus away from just Tokyo and Osaka toward a growing trend of "light travel" that explores surrounding areas and delves deeper into local regions.
Located in the central Japan, Aichi Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture are well-connected by the extensive railway network operated by Nagoya Railroad (hereinafter referred to as "Meitetsu"), linking numerous charming small towns. The Meitetsu Group , based in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, actively promotes tourism content and routes extending to surrounding areas, encouraging travelers to utilize its convenient transportation to experience the rich and diverse culture and scenery of the central region and enjoy local cuisine. The charm of central Japan goes far beyond just Nagoya City!
- Travel Central Japan with Ease Using Meitetsu
Founded in 1894, Meitetsu is one of Japan's historic private railway companies, headquartered in Nagoya City. Its network spans Aichi Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture, with a total operating distance exceeding 440 kilometers. Among its services, the airport express "μ-SKY" is the only railway line directly connecting to Chubu Centrair International Airport, while also conveniently linking cities and tourist spots such as Nagoya, Gifu, and Inuyama. Beyond railway transportation, the Meitetsu Group is involved in bus services, department stores, and tourism hotels, making it not just a mode of transport for foreign visitors but also a gateway to the multifaceted culture and landscapes of the central Japan.
- Gifu City: A New Entertainment Landmark Blending Modernity with Traditional History
In April 2025, the newly opened "GIFU-JO RAKUICHI" at the foot of Mount Kinka within Gifu Park became a highlight of local tourism. Once the residence of Oda Nobunaga, Gifu Castle, along with Mount Kinka, is a popular spot for autumn leaf viewing and hiking. The "GIFU-JO RAKUICHI" consists of seven wooden flat-roofed buildings, housing 11 shops including food stalls using local ingredients and craft souvenir stores, showcasing the beauty of Gifu's local culture and traditional craftsmanship.
Travelers can take the Meitetsu from Nagoya directly to Meitetsu Gifu Station and then transfer to a bus to reach the site. Beyond visiting Gifu Castle and shopping, nearby attractions include the Gifu City Museum of History and the old townscape of Kawaramachi, making it an ideal choice for a stroll combining history and modernity.
- Nagoya City: Central Hub and Gourmet Metropolis
Taking the Meitetsu airport express "μ-SKY" from Chubu Centrair International Airport, travelers can reach the downtown of Nagoya City in approximately 30 minutes. This city is not only one of Japan's major urban centers, lined with luxury hotels and department stores, but also a key transportation hub for destinations like Gifu, Takayama, Gero Onsen, and Ise in Mie Prefecture.
The Meitetsu Nagoya Station, adjacent to the Meitetsu Bus Center, offers frequent intercity railway and highway bus services, allowing travelers to use Nagoya as a base for one-day trip or multi-day trip. Additionally, Nagoya boasts cultural landmarks such as Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Art Museum, and Atsuta Shrine, along with unique "Nagoya delicacies" such as miso katsu (breaded pork cutlet with miso sauce) and unagi don (grilled eel rice), making it a city worth lingering in to explore.
- Inuyama: Castle Town Charm and Nature Experience
Inuyama City, one of the most popular tourist destinations along the Meitetsu Line, is just about 30 minutes from Nagoya. Inuyama Castle, Japan's oldest surviving national treasure keep, is perched on a hill along the Kiso River, offering a picturesque 360-degree panoramic view. The castle town streets retain an Edo-period ambiance, where visitors can enjoy traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets), rent kimonos, and explore historic architecture, making it a favorite among overseas tourists.
Beyond its historical charm, Inuyama offers enriching outdoor experiences at the "Japan Monkey Centre" and "Museum Meiji-Mura", ideal for combining culture with family-friendly travel. A direct ride on the Inuyama Line from Meitetsu Nagoya Station requires no transfers for a delightful day trip.
- Chita Peninsula: Head to Himakajima for a Tranquil Island Getaway
The Chita Peninsula, with its abundant natural resources and fishing village atmosphere along the coast, features Himakajima in Mikawa Bay as an excellent spot for a short retreat. From Meitetsu Nagoya Station, take a train to Kōwa Station and transfer to a high-speed boat, arriving on the island in about 1.5 hours. Known for its octopus and pufferfish, Himakajima offers fresh seafood at local inns and guesthouses, along with activities like cycling around the island and beach walks. The Island boasts a leisurely pace with distinct seasonal scenery. Summer invites water play, while autumn and winter offer fresh seafood, each season brimming with unique charm. The island is dotted with photogenic spots, making it perfect for travelers seeking a break from urban hustle to savor serene island life.
- Tahara City: A Pastoral City between Flowers and the Coast
Located at the southern tip of Aichi Prefecture on the Atsumi Peninsula, Tahara City is Japan's largest flower-producing region, with its seasonal flower fields painting a picturesque landscape. Take the Meitetsu train to Toyohashi Station, then transfer to the Atsumi Line to arrive. The local "Cape Irago" is a renowned sunrise spot, separated from Toba City by just a stretch of water.
Spring brings rapeseed and tulips, summer offers sunflowers, and autumn and winter feature greenhouse flower exhibitions, making Tahara a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The region is also famous for its melons, with farm-picking and beach camping experiences popular among families and young travelers.
- Gamagori: A Resort Haven Combining Hot Springs and Seaside Fun
Gamagori, situated along Mikawa Bay, is a renowned hot spring resort in Aichi Prefecture. Travelers can reach Gamagori Station from Nagoya Station via JR in about 40 minutes. The area features several hot spring inns with sea views and relaxing open-air baths.
Beyond that, Gamagori offers family-friendly attractions like the "Takeshima Aquarium" and the seaside complex "Laguna Ten Bosch." The bridge connecting Takeshima to the mainland is a popular photogenic spot, especially stunning at sunset and night. Whether for a healing getaway or a family outing, Gamagori provides diverse options.
- Handa and Okazaki: Treasures of Fermented Food Culture
Handa and Okazaki in Aichi Prefecture boast a long history of miso and vinegar production, serving as key hubs for Japan's brewing and fermented food culture. Handa features the "Handa Canal," used to transport brewing products, with its black wooden buildings still lining the waterfront, preserving its original charm. The canal area also includes the "Mizkan Museum," where visitors can learn about vinegar production and culinary culture, immersing themselves in the allure of brewing.
Okazaki, the birthplace of Hatcho Miso, offers guided tours and tasting experiences at "Hatcho Miso Village." Made with a 400-year-old unchanged method, Hatcho Miso provides deep insight into the art of Japanese fermented cuisine. Both Handa and Okazaki are accessible from Nagoya via the Meitetsu Kōwa Line and Main Line in about 1 hour, making them ideal for a deep travel experience combining food, culture, and learning.
For more information, please visit the official website of Meitetsu "Co-machi" (Japanese):
https://www.meitetsu.co.jp/pr/co-machi/
SOURCE Nagoya Railroad Co.,Ltd
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