Aichi Prefecture
Where is Aichi?
Aichi Prefecture is situated in the Chūbu region of Honshu, Japan’s largest island.
It borders Shizuoka Prefecture to the east, Nagano Prefecture to the northeast, Gifu Prefecture to the north, and Mie Prefecture to the west.
The prefecture’s southern coastline faces the Ise and Mikawa Bays.
Nagoya, the capital of Aichi Prefecture, is the fourth-largest city in Japan.
Other significant towns/cities in the prefecture include Toyota, Okazaki, and Ichinomiya.
What is Aichi famous for?
Aichi Prefecture is most notably home to Toyota Motor Corporation, one of Japan’s most recognisable automotive manufacturers.
The prefecture is also home to a variety of regional delicacies, such as “Hitsumabushi”, a grilled eel and rice dish, and “Tenmusu”, a rice ball filled with prawn tempura and served with a brown fruit flavoured sauce.
“Misokatsu”, a pork cutlet coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried, then smothered in a rich, savory miso sauce, is also a popular dish that has its origins in Aichi.
Where should I visit in Aichi?
Many visitors to Aichi Prefecture will choose to use Nagoya City as their main hub, as it is well connected with other areas in the prefecture by rail and road.
Nagoya Castle, one of the original great castles of Japan, and Atsuta Shrine are two popular attractions located in Nagoya City that see thousands of visitors every year.
Aichi Prefecture is also home to other attractions such as Legoland Japan, Ghibli Park and Inuyama Castle, one of the oldest remaining castles in Japan.
When is the best time to visit Aichi?
The best time to visit Aichi Prefecture depends on your interests.
For those who enjoy pleasant weather and cultural experiences, spring (late March to early May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal.
Spring sees cherry blossoms in full bloom, whilst autumn offers colorful foliage.
Summer (July to August) is hot and humid, but it’s a great time to visit for festivals and outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the mountainous areas, however it can be a great time for those looking to experience winter sports like skiing.
All Events in Aichi
Tours and Activities in Aichi
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Where should I stay in Aichi?
Choosing where to stay in Aichi prefecture will depend on your budget, interests/itinerary, and preferred travel style.
For those seeking a luxurious experience, Nagoya offers a variety of high-end hotels including the Nagoya Marriot Associa Hotel, which has modern amenities and stunning city views.
Budget travelers may prefer the more affordable accommodations in smaller towns and cities like Okazaki and Toyohashi, though there are also a range of budget hotels in larger cities such as APA Hotel in Nagoya and Hotel LiVEMAX in Toyota.
For those interested in a unique experience, traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) are available in areas like Inuyama, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture.
When choosing accommodation, consider the location in relation to your planned activities.
For example, if you plan to explore Nagoya city center, a hotel in the Sakae or Naka districts would be convenient and well situated in terms of transport links.
For those interested in visiting historical sites and temples, staying in areas like Inuyama or Toyota may offer lower hotel prices and shorter transit times to nearby cultural sites.
Consider whether you are willing to compromise on location to save money, as you can often save money by staying outside of city centres and popular districts.
If you plan to visit attractions that are far apart, it can be beneficial (and often cost saving) to move accommodation frequently to make sure you can get to each attraction at the optimal time.
This can be a good idea for those travelling light, but it can also be possible for those with larger luggage with some pre-planning – such as arranging luggage transfers through companies like Yamato Transport.
Ultimately, the best place to stay in Aichi Prefecture will depend on your individual needs and travel preferences.
How do I get to Aichi Prefecture?
To reach Aichi Prefecture, the most convenient method is by air or train.
For international travelers, Chubu Centrair International Airport is the primary gateway. Located in the prefecture, it serves domestic and international flights.
From the airport, you can take a train or bus to reach various cities in Aichi, including Nagoya.
If you’re already in Japan, the Shinkansen bullet train is the fastest way to reach Aichi.
The Tokaido Shinkansen, which connects Tokyo and Osaka, stops at Nagoya, Toyohashi and Anjo in Aichi Prefecture.