This 4-day journey blends the elegance of Japan’s samurai heritage with its refined culinary traditions, offering an experience unlike any other. Your stay is divided between The Tower Hotel Nagoya, a luxury property inside the registered cultural property MIRAI TOWER with sweeping views of Nagoya Castle, and Juhachiro, a historic riverside ryokan in Gifu famed for its natural hot springs.
In Seki, a city renowned worldwide for its blades, you will visit the Seki Swordsmith Museum for an immersive introduction to centuries-old forging techniques. Watch an iaido sword demonstration, try your hand at wielding a heavy hammer, and appreciate the craftsmanship that has earned Seki its place among the world’s top three blade-making centers.
In Nagoya, samurai history comes alive at Nagoya Castle, where warrior guides in period costume bring history to life with humor and drama. You will also step into the refined world of Nishikawa-ryu traditional dance school, observing a private rehearsal of geisha before enjoying the warm, elegant hospitality of ozashiki-asobi during dinner.
A highlight of your culinary immersion is rice cake making experience, a fully participatory program that begins with the live beat of drums and the rhythmic pounding of the mortar and pestle. Wearing a traditional happi coat, you will join in the powerful, coordinated motions of pounding steamed rice into soft, chewy mochi, then taste it fresh. Alongside the performance, a Tokoname craftsman will share insights into the careful selection of rice and the history of mochi-making, offering a rare window into the heart of Japan’s food culture.
Your gastronomic journey also includes a visit to Sawada Sake Brewery to learn about brewing traditions, taste three sake varieties paired with local delicacies, and create your own souvenir label. Meals range from the hearty flavors of Nagoya-meshi to a meticulously prepared kaiseki dinner at the esteemed Kajoen.
By combining luxury accommodations, cultural exclusivity, and immersive hands-on experiences, this journey offers a complete sensory exploration of Central Japan’s heritage and hospitality.
JR Gifu Station
This tour is conducted in English.
A Mandarin, French, Spanish, German, or Korean-speaking guide may be available. Please contact the supplier in advance to check availability.
This experience is booked on request. The owner of the experience will respond to the request within 10 days
Cancellation Date | Cancellation Fee |
---|---|
No-show or cancellation after tour departure | 100% of the tour price |
On the tour date before departure | 50% of the tour price |
1 day prior to the tour date | 40% of the tour price |
2 to 7 days prior to the tour date | 30% of the tour price |
8 to 20 days prior to the tour date | 20% of the tour price |
21 or more days prior to the tour date | Free |
Aichi