Step into the refined cultural world of Kakuozan, one of Nagoya’s most elegant and historically rich neighborhoods. This immersive full-day tour offers a rare opportunity to experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony using historical tea utensils once owned by a prominent tea patron of the 20th century. The ceremony takes place in a beautifully preserved sukiya-style villa, part of a nationally registered cultural property.
Your day begins with a guided visit to the Furukawa Art Museum, showcasing a private collection of nearly 2,800 pieces, including modern Japanese paintings, decorative manuscripts, and tea ware. Then, deepen your connection to Japanese tradition through a tranquil tea ceremony in the adjoining Tamesaburo Memorial Museum, surrounded by seasonal gardens.
After a lunch in the Kakuozan shopping street, visit three important heritage sites: Nittaiji Temple, Sououji Temple, and the hilltop estate of Yokiso. These sites tell the story of Nagoya’s history, international ties, and cultural evolution through exquisite architecture and garden design.
With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll experience Nagoya’s sophisticated cultural heritage—away from the crowds, and deeply connected to place.
Below is a video featuring some of the key attractions you will visit during this tour.
Be sure to check it out!
Explore highlights of a private collection featuring Japanese modern art, rare decorative manuscripts, ceramics, and tea utensils. Learn about the collector’s philosophy and contribution to cultural preservation.
Walk to the former residence of the museum’s founder, a classic 1930s sukiya-style villa with a registered tea house and peaceful garden. Enjoy insights into his passion for the tea ceremony.
Participate in a seated tea ceremony using historical tea utensils, led by a professional tea host. The session reflects the aesthetics and spirit of Japanese hospitality in a calm, meditative setting.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, where you can taste regional dishes in a casual yet refined atmosphere. Your guide will accompany you and introduce the restaurant and menu.
Nittaiji Temple:
Built to house sacred relics from Thailand, this temple is the only one in Japan not affiliated with a Buddhist sect.
Yokiso Garden:
Former villa of a prominent merchant featuring both Japanese and Western architecture, a tea house for sencha, and a painted ceiling bridge.
Sououji Temple:
The family temple of the Tokugawa clan, built in honor of Tokugawa Yoshinao’s mother, with a striking platform modeled after Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera.
Your guide will assist you with directions for your next destination.
Furukawa Art Museum
This tour involves moderate walking on paved paths and through garden areas. The experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Lunch is not included. Please notify your guide of any restrictions for restaurant recommendations.
This experience is booked on request. The owner of the experience will respond to the request within 5 days
| 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 |
