Legends of the Samurai | Nagoya Castle & Tokugawa Art Museum and Garden
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
4.5
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
16,000
JPY/person
Size
Size
1-7
Person
Highlights
  • Discover how the Tokugawa family shaped the history and culture of Nagoya through an engaging, in-depth guided experience
  • Step into the world of the samurai at Nagoya Castle, home to the beautifully reconstructed Honmaru Palace
  • Marvel at the golden Kinshachi roof ornaments, a lasting symbol of the Tokugawa shogunate’s power
  • Gain insight into the legacy of the Tokugawa family through historical artifacts at the Tokugawa Art Museum
  • Experience the tranquility of Tokugawa Garden, a stunning example of traditional Japanese landscape design

Discover the samurai heritage of Nagoya through two of the city’s most important historical sites—Nagoya Castle and Tokugawa Art Museum & Garden. This tour explores the influence of the Tokugawa family, who shaped the city’s history by building Nagoya Castle and establishing Nagoya as a major political and cultural center.

Begin at Nagoya Castle, one of Japan’s largest and most significant samurai fortresses, built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty. Admire the iconic golden Kinshachi roof ornaments, symbols of samurai power, and explore the Honmaru Palace, a magnificent example of Edo-period architecture, rebuilt using traditional materials and craftsmanship.

Next, travel to Tokugawa Art Museum, where you will see an exceptional collection of samurai armor, swords, and historical artifacts passed down through the Tokugawa family. Gain deeper insight into the lifestyle, philosophy, and traditions of the samurai class.

End the tour with a visit to Tokugawa Garden, a peaceful Japanese garden once part of the Tokugawa family’s estate. Experience the elegance of traditional landscape design, where ponds, waterfalls, and seasonal flowers create a serene atmosphere, reflecting the samurai appreciation for nature.

With a knowledgeable guide providing expert insights, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of samurai history and the lasting influence of the Tokugawa family on Nagoya.

Itinerary

9:00 AM – Meet at Nagoya Station & Travel to Nagoya Castle

Meet your guide at the Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center, then take the subway to Nagoya Castle.

9:30 AM – Explore Nagoya Castle & Honmaru Palace

  • Step into the world of the samurai at Nagoya Castle, originally built by Tokugawa Ieyasu
  • Admire the golden Kinshachi roof ornaments, symbols of power and prestige
  • Visit the Honmaru Palace, a meticulously reconstructed masterpiece of samurai-era architecture

11:00 AM – Travel to Tokugawa Art Museum

Take a bus to the Tokugawa Art Museum, home to an extensive collection of samurai artifacts and historical treasures.

11:30 AM – Discover the Legacy of the Tokugawa Family at Tokugawa Art Museum

  • See authentic samurai armor, swords, and personal belongings of the Tokugawa family
  • Learn about the mindset and cultural traditions of the samurai through rare historical exhibits

12:30 PM – Experience the Serenity of Tokugawa Garden

Stroll through a beautifully preserved Japanese garden, once part of the Tokugawa family’s residence.
Enjoy the seasonal landscapes, waterfalls, and tranquil ponds that reflect traditional aesthetics.

1:00 PM – Return to Nagoya Station

Take the train back to Nagoya Station, where your guide will assist you with directions to your next destination.

1:30 PM – Tour Ends at Nagoya Station

Meeting Point

Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

What's Included

What’s Included

  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Public transportation fares between attractions
  • Admission fees
  • Travel Insurance

What’s Not Included

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

Accessibility & Activity Level

  • This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended
  • Stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible due to historical structures

Tour Operation & Language

  • Minimum age of participants is 5
  • 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.

Dietary Requirements

No meals are included in this tour.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light snack if needed, as the tour ends after lunchtime

Booking & Cancellation Policy

Booking Deadline

  • Advance booking is required
  • Cut-off time: 9 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
Reviews
The locations
to visit in this tour

Nagoya City
Starting From
16,000 JPY/person