Inuyama Old Town Review
Inuyama Old Town Review
A picturesque, traditional Japanese village that has endured for centuries, Inuyama Old Town remains a popular destination near Nagoya. It offers a window into Japan’s rich history. Here’s my Inuyama Old Town review.
This peaceful and laid-back town is home to several notable landmarks, including the iconic Inuyama Castle—a designated national treasure and Japan’s oldest surviving castle, initially built in the 15th century.
Located in Aichi Prefecture, Inuyama (犬山), meaning “Dog Mountain” in Japanese, has deep historical roots. The town center was established in 1537 by the samurai warlord Nobuyasu Oda.
However, the area’s history stretches back even further to the ancient Kofun period, which is known for its massive burial mounds. To protect the castle town, the roads leading out were designed with strategic curves and guarded gates to defend against potential invaders.
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| One of the old homes in Inuyama Old Town. |
Things to do around Inuyama include general historical sightseeing, visiting the Inuyama Castle, experiencing the unique Cormorant Fishing or Ukai (seasonal), exploring the beautiful Meiji-Mura Historical Museum, and simply walking around the old town area of Inuyama.
Photos of Inuyama Old Town
Below are random photos taken all around Inuyama’s old town in Japan.
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| Street vendors are along the main walking street. |
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| One of the local Nagoya restaurants. |
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| A semi-modern Japanese home in Inuyama. |
How to go to Inuyama?
- You have many options to travel to Inuyama, and the best way is, of course, via Train if you are coming from Osaka or Tokyo.
- From Tokyo: By Train – Almost 2 hours to Nagoya Station by JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line.
- From Osaka: By Train – 1 hour from Shin-Osaka to Nagoya Station by Shinkansen.
- From Nagoya Station: 25 minutes from Meitetsu Nagoya to Inuyama Station by Meitetsu Inuyama Line.
- Update: AirAsia X no longer flies into Nagoya. The AAX flights used to land at Chubu Centrair Airport in Nagoya, outside Nagoya City.
- More: The Japan National Tourism Board website provides additional information about transport, Inuyama or Nagoya.
- Update March 2023 – Batik Air Malaysia has direct flights to Nagoya since 20 March 2023, with three weekly flights.
Conclusion
One of the great things about Inuyama is its convenient location—it is just 25 kilometers from Nagoya, making it an easy destination for a day trip. That said, spending a night or two is highly recommended to truly soak in the charm and history of the area, especially in Inuyama Old Town.
If you have questions about my Inuyama Old Town review, please post them in the comment section below, and I will respond to you.
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