Where Modern Japan Began | A Walking Tour of Nagoya’s Historic Homes & Cultural Path
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
2
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
8,500
JPY/person
Group Size
Group Size
1-
People
Highlights
  • Walk through elegant homes from early 20th-century Japan’s modernization era
  • Explore three historic residences blending Western comfort with Japanese design
  • Discover stories of entrepreneurs and innovators shaping modern Nagoya
  • Relax in seasonal gardens that once framed everyday elite life
  • Experience a refined, slower-paced side of Nagoya on foot

This walking tour explores Nagoya’s Cultural Path, a historic district that preserves the atmosphere of early 20th-century Japan.

The residences you will visit were built during a pivotal era when Japan was rapidly modernizing while still valuing traditional craftsmanship. Known in Japan as the Taisho period, this time saw Western architecture, furniture, and lifestyles gradually incorporated into Japanese daily life. Rather than replacing tradition, these new influences blended harmoniously with Japanese design, creating distinctive and elegant living spaces.

The tour begins at the Shumoku Museum, the former home of ceramic exporter Tamezaburo Imoto. Its refined interiors showcase a graceful mix of Western-style rooms and Japanese spaces, complemented by a tranquil garden and traditional tea room.

You will then visit the former home of Sasuke Toyoda, brother of Toyota Group founder Sakichi Toyoda, where Western and Japanese residential styles coexist in striking balance. Interior details such as crane motifs and lotus-inspired lighting reflect both family heritage and refined modern taste.

The final stop is Hyakka Hyakuso, a beautifully restored residence surrounded by a seasonal garden inspired by classical art and poetry. With over 90 varieties of plants blooming throughout the year, the house offers a peaceful setting where guests can relax with tea or coffee.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in architecture, social history, and the quieter stories behind Japan’s journey into modern life.

Itinerary

1:00 PM – Meet near Cultural Path Futaba-kan

Meet your guide and receive a brief introduction before beginning the walk.

1:05 PM – Cultural Path Shumoku Museum

Explore the former residence of a ceramic exporter, featuring elegant Taisho-era interiors, Western and Japanese design elements, and a serene garden with a traditional tea room.

1:30 PM – Toyoda Sasuke’s House

Step inside the historic home of Sasuke Toyoda and discover how architectural details reflect the lifestyle and values of a family central to Japan’s industrial history.

2:15 PM – Hyakka Hyakuso

Visit a restored early 20th-century residence surrounded by a seasonal garden inspired by traditional art. Enjoy a self-service coffee or tea while taking in the peaceful scenery.

3:00 PM – Tour Ends

The guided tour concludes here. Your guide will be happy to assist with directions to your next destination or offer local recommendations.

Meeting Point

Cultural Path Futaba-kan

What's Included

Included

  • English speaking guide
  • Admissions
  • Matcha tea and sweets provided during the tour
  • Travel Insurance

Not Included

  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Guide gratuities (optional)
Additional Info

Tour Operation

  • Hyakka Hyakuso is open from Wednesday to Saturday.
    On days when Hyakka Hyakuso is closed (Sundays and Tuesdays), the tour will visit Futaba-kan instead.
    In this case, guests will enjoy a matcha tea experience with traditional Japanese sweets at Shumokukan.
  • Please note that this tour is not available on Mondays, as both Shumokukan and the Sasuke Residence are closed.

Booking Request

This experience is booked on request. The owner of the experience will respond to the request within 5 days

Booking & Cancellation Policy

Booking Deadline

  • Advance booking is required
  • Cut-off time: 7 days before departure

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Date Cancellation Fee
No-show or cancellation after tour departure 100% of the tour price
On the tour date 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 10 days prior to the tour date 20% of the tour price
11 or more days prior to the tour date Free
Locations
visited during tour

Starting From
8,500 JPY/person