Inuyama Castle and Old Town Stroll Course

About twenty five minutes by train from Nagoya, this course walks you through the national treasure Inuyama Castle, said to be among the oldest surviving keeps, and an old town that retains its Edo era street layout. There is the popular Sanko Inari Shrine for matchmaking and plenty of snacking gourmet. It suits couples, groups of friends, and photo lovers, and takes about five hours.

Course Route

10:00 Start at Inuyama Castle Climb to the keep standing on a height overlooking the Kiso River. The view from the top floor after the steep stairs is superb, taking in the river and townscape at once.

11:30 Visit Sanko Inari Shrine Pass under rows of vermilion torii gates to a shrine known for its heart shaped ema plaques. It is a power spot crowded with people praying for love.

12:30 Lunch in the old town Enjoy local flavors in an atmospheric townhouse on Honmachi street. Choose an Inuyama style dish such as miso dengaku or grilled eel.

14:00 Snacking and townscape walk Peek into spots like Showa Yokocho and wander the old town with heart shaped sweets or skewers in hand. Touch on history at the old Isobe Residence and Donden Kan.

15:00 Pick souvenirs and finish Choose Inuyama souvenirs like Japanese crafts and local sake, and close the day savoring the retro townscape.

Highlights

- The keep of national treasure Inuyama Castle, among the oldest surviving, and the Kiso River view - Sanko Inari Shrine with rows of vermilion torii and heart shaped ema - The Honmachi street old town that keeps its Edo era layout - Photogenic sweets and skewers at Showa Yokocho

Access and Tips

- The old town is within walking distance of Meitetsu Inuyama Station or Inuyamayuen Station - The keep stairs are steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended - Walking the streets in a rented kimono makes for great photos - Weekends get crowded, so early morning is the sweet spot

A Quick Tip

The top floor of Inuyama Castle can be windy on some days, so a light layer brings peace of mind. The fun of old town snacking lies in trying a little of many things.