Discover Nagoya's distinct flavors, from savory miso to sweet treats, through guided food tours and cooking classes.
Nagoya, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors Tokyo and Osaka, is a city with a surprisingly robust and unique culinary identity. While it might not have the international spotlight of other Japanese metropolises, Nagoya's food scene is deeply rooted in tradition and celebrated by locals for its distinct flavors and comforting dishes. This is a city where food isn't just sustenance; it's a point of regional pride, a delicious expression of history and local ingredients. From the ubiquitous, soul-warming red miso that flavors everything from ramen to grilled chicken, to the delicate, artfully prepared wagashi (Japanese sweets), Nagoya offers a gastronomic adventure that is both authentic and accessible. Exploring these culinary delights through guided experiences is an excellent way to navigate the city's vibrant food culture. These tours are designed to take you beyond the typical tourist paths, leading you to local eateries, bustling markets, and even hands-on cooking sessions. Whether you're keen to understand the nuances of Nagoya's signature dishes, learn the secrets behind crafting perfect wagashi, or simply sample a wide array of local delicacies with knowledgeable guidance, these culinary experiences unlock a deeper appreciation for what makes Nagoya a true foodie destination. Prepare your taste buds for a journey into the heart of Japan's culinary landscape.
Discover our top picks for nagoya culinary experiences in Nagoya

Explore Japanese cherry blossoms and historical treasures like Nagoya Castle and Tokugawa Garden, known for its Edo period daimyo gardens, offering a springtime display of flowers. Dive into Nagoya Castle's rich history and enjoy cherry blossom viewing and culinary delights at the Spring Festival. Nagoya Castle Spring Festival There are approximately 1,000 cherry trees of about 10 varieties, mainly Someiyoshino and Shidare-zakura, in the grounds. You can enjoy various events, tea ceremonies, and sweet treats. Along with the fantastic cherry blossoms, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Nagoya Castle that cannot usually be seen.

Discover the art of Japanese home cooking in a vibrant hands-on class led by Yuka, a passionate cooking specialist and licensed nutritionist with extensive culinary experience. This engaging session in downtown Nagoya invites you to prepare a seasonal washoku meal featuring five dishes, including miso soup and a rolled omelet, using high-quality ingredients unique to Aichi Prefecture. Enjoy a tasting of traditional dashi and seasonings, learn Japanese table manners, and savor your creations with matcha green tea. Yuka's expertise and cultural insights will enrich your culinary journey as you immerse yourself in the flavors of Japan.

Enjoy your own private tour of Nagoya’s vibrant nightlife! Discover Nagoya’s nightlife with a 100% private guided tour—just you and your group, no strangers! Our local guide will take you to the best izakaya-style bars and hidden local favorites that tourists rarely find on their own. Navigating the Japanese bar scene can be tricky, but with our friendly private guide, you’ll relax and enjoy authentic places with delicious food and drink tailored to your tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick drink or a full izakaya crawl, the night is entirely yours to shape. This is not a group tour—this is your night, your pace, and your experience. Book now and enjoy Nagoya like a true local—your way! 【Important Notice】 ※Meals and drinks are not included in the tour. ※We would appreciate it if you could inform us in advance of any food preferences or allergies. This is basically a private tour, but occasionally other groups may join. In such cases, we will notify you in advance.

【What you'll do】 At first we will meet up Sakae station Exit 1. (in front of Don Quijote Sakae Honten) And we are going to visit 1 izakaya and 1 bar with the people who registered this experiences all together in Sakae area which is the most popular nightlife spot in Nagoya. You can feel local atmosphere and enjoy local food here! [Schedule example] 7:00pm - Meet up at the Sakae station 7:10pm - Arrive at the first restaurant in Sakae and enjoy some meals 8:30pm - Depart from the first restaurant and head to the bar 8:40pm - Arrive at the bar and enjoy the atmosphere and some Sake whatever you want 10:00pm - Finish *Please Noted. that meals are not included *This tour is about 3 hours, but as Nagoya never sleeps especially weekend, so you can go on until whenever *It would be greatly appreciated if you could provide a number that is easy to communicate with, such as WhatsApp or IG, at the time of your booking Thank you!

Perfect for cruise passengers docking at Nagoya Port, this private sightseeing tour is a great way to experience the city's top attractions in comfort and style. You can choose the meeting point: Nagoya Port or Nagoya Station Discover Nagoya’s Highlights: Travel by private vehicle to explore iconic sites including Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Osu Shopping Street, Nagoya Castle, and Kinshachi Yokocho. Cultural & Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in Nagoya’s rich history, vibrant street culture, and local flavors - all in one seamless journey. Stress-Free Exploration: Enjoy a smooth, hassle-free shore excursion with a personal driver, giving you more time to enjoy each destination at your own pace.

Are you familiar with the three historical heroes born in Owari Nagoya? Indeed, Lord Oda Nobunaga, who schemed for national unification yet fell just short of achieving it; Lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Taiko who rose from peasant origins to accomplish national unification; and Lord Tokugawa Ieyasu, who won the decisive battle that divided the nation and laid the foundations for a stable, long-lasting shogunate? Why not spend a wonderfully indulgent day with a local guide, tracing their footsteps and experiencing Japan's samurai culture? Beyond samurai culture, Nagoya boasts its own unique culinary tradition, “Nagoya-meshi” – a distinct food culture found nowhere else. Savouring a lunch experience available only here with a guide who knows the area intimately is another delight of Nagoya. Now then, let us embark together on a journey that is uniquely Nagoya!"

Discover the essence of traditional Japanese home cooking, ichiju-sansai, in Nagoya, where local fermentation traditions enhance dishes with miso, malt, and soy sauce. Learn to craft a Japanese soup stock using kelp and bonito flakes under the guidance of Grandma, sharing her expertise and culinary wisdom. Choose from two menus featuring cherished family recipes like chicken and salmon celebrated in the region for generations. After preparing and tasting these dishes, participants partake in a serene matcha ceremony, crafting and enjoying matcha with seasonal Japanese sweets. Limited to four people, this intimate experience promises a personalized journey into Nagoya's rich culinary heritage.

Discover Handa, a hidden gem in Aichi—just 30 minutes from Chubu Centrair Airport by car and 40 minutes from Nagoya by train or car. Known for its rich fermentation culture, Handa offers an authentic alternative to Japan’s crowded tourist spots. Your tour begins along the historic Handa Canal, lined with traditional black-walled storehouses reflecting the city’s history. Next, step inside a preserved traditional residence. Here, you’ll taste five types of vinegar and learn what makes each one unique. After the tasting, browse local miso, soy sauce, and other aged Japanese seasonings known for their rich UMAMI—ideal as gifts. To finish, enjoy a stroll through Handa’s streets, with stops such as a sake museum and local wagashi shops. This mix of flavor, history, and scenery makes Handa a memorable destination for food lovers. *This tour is operated in collaboration with Handa Tourist Association. *Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Experience Nagoya’s rich food culture in a hands-on cooking class led by a local grandmother who’s passionate about traditional cuisine and fermentation. Learn how to make authentic dashi from kombu and bonito flakes while discovering her deep knowledge and cooking wisdom. You’ll prepare and enjoy three popular local “Nagoya-meshi” dishes, and with the included recipes, you can recreate them at home. After the meal, take part in a tea ceremony experience — whisk your own bowl of matcha and enjoy it with a seasonal Japanese sweet. This small-group class (up to four people) offers an intimate and unforgettable way to connect with the heart of Nagoya’s culinary traditions. please feel free to get in touch if you have questions.

Explore the historic charm of Nagoya with our immersive cultural tour, perfect for foodies and history enthusiasts alike. Begin in Shikemichi, Nagoya's oldest neighborhood, with its picturesque wide streets, white row houses, and ancient shrines, ideal for memorable photos. Visit a modern tea shop to learn the Japanese art of brewing green tea, discovering how to make the perfect cup at home and the nuances of brewing tea leaves multiple times. Next, wander through Endoji, Nagoya's oldest shopping street, where you'll find a blend of old and new, alongside a variety of unique street foods. Savor sweet and savory local specialties exclusive to Endoji and Nagoya. Join this tour for insider knowledge of Nagoya's history, culinary delights, and unforgettable experiences, capturing the essence of local traditions in a delightful blend of education and exploration.

Discover the Soul of Nagoya on a Private Walking Tour Step into the heart of Nagoya with a private, customized walking tour that blends history, spirituality, and local flavor. Explore iconic landmarks like Nagoya Castle, Spiritual Atsuta Shrine, and the lively Osu Shopping District, all at your own pace. Travel in comfort with a nationally licensed guide who picks you up in a private car from Nagoya—making your journey smooth, safe, and personal from start to finish. Few reviews here yet, but I have many 5-star reviews on other platforms—book with confidence! Highlights: ・Explore Nagoya Castle’s Honmaru Palace and enjoy samurai photo opportunities. ・Experience Atsuta Shrine’s sacred aura and try the sword-lifting tradition. ・Stroll Osu’s lively streets filled with shops and savor local food for lunch. ・Trusted as a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Cert. No. EN00703). ・Comfortable travel with a private car and 10+ years professional driving.

Explore the culinary delights of Nagoya with this specially designed food tour for cruise passengers arriving at Kinjo Pier. Experience the vibrant Makers Pier area, where you’ll stroll through a welcoming waterfront district and savor the unique flavors of Nagoya, renowned for its rich miso-based cuisine. Enjoy tastings at two selected restaurants, with food and drinks included up to 3,000 yen. A knowledgeable guide shares insights into local dishes and dining customs, ensuring a meaningful and relaxed introduction to the city’s food culture. This tour offers cruise travelers a delightful way to experience Nagoya beyond the typical shore excursion.

Craft Your Own Unique Miso In this workshop, you’ll create a custom miso blend using your choice of beans, grains, and salt levels, allowing you to tailor its sweetness, depth, and saltiness. ・Participate in a hands-on miso-making workshop to create Japan's staple rice-based miso, representing 80% of all miso made in the country. ・This family-friendly activity welcomes all ages, with a special tradition that children’s hands add unique flavors to the miso. ・The workshop lasts about two hours, with a total time of up to three hours, including preparation. ・Enjoy a warm bowl of homemade miso soup made with our family’s own miso for an authentic tasting experience. ・For Japanese culture lovers ; Miso has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for over a thousand years. ・Ideal for Japanese culture enthusiasts, this workshop offers a memorable dive into traditional culinary heritage. ・Take Home a “Living” Product;Bring home your miso to continue fermenting!

Endoji Shopping Arcade is a charming covered shopping street near Nagoya Station, blending the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era with the infusion of modern culture since the Meiji period. Located within this arcade, the tea room Wasuikouan offers the opportunity to enjoy a meal of one soup and two side dishes, along with tea and sweets. Experience the cultural richness and culinary delights in the heart of Nagoya's historic district.

Step into old Japan on a private tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go, two towns rich in tradition and charm. Stroll Takayama’s historic streets, then head to Shirakawa-go to see its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses. Discover folk culture, taste local flavors, and enjoy mountain views on this unforgettable journey. Travel in comfort with a nationally licensed guide who picks you up in a private car from Nagoya—making your journey smooth, safe, and personal from start to finish. Few reviews here yet, but I have many 5-star reviews on other platforms—book with confidence! Highlights: ・Stroll Takayama’s timeless streets, where nature and history blend seamlessly. ・Discover Shirakawa-go’s thatched roofs and tranquil mountain scenery. ・Experience the peaceful village atmosphere, like stepping back in time. ・Trusted as a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Cert. No. EN00703). ・Comfortable travel with a private car and 10+ years professional driving.
Go beyond the usual tourist spots to savor genuine Nagoya specialties, like miso katsu and tebasaki.
Engage in cooking classes to master local recipes and techniques, bringing a taste of Nagoya home.
Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets, discovering fresh produce and regional ingredients.
Navigate the city's food landscape with local guides who share insights into history and culture.
Sample everything from casual street food to refined wagashi, experiencing the full spectrum of Nagoya's cuisine.
Enjoy a more intimate experience with smaller groups, allowing for better interaction and tasting.
These tours are your express ticket to sampling Nagoya's most iconic dishes. Guides lead you through designated foodie neighborhoods, stopping at various establishments to try local favorites like miso katsu, hitsumabushi (eel rice), and Nagoya's signature red miso-based ramen.
Dive into the heart of Nagoya's food supply chain by visiting bustling local markets, such as the Osu Shopping District or the outer market of the former Toyosu Fish Market (if applicable). These experiences often include sampling fresh seafood, regional produce, and unique snacks, providing a glimpse into daily life.
For a truly immersive experience, join a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic Nagoya dishes, from savory mains using local miso to delicate wagashi. You'll gain practical skills and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch or dinner.
Discover Nagoya's sweeter side with tours dedicated to its exquisite wagashi. These experiences often involve visiting traditional confectioneries, learning about the art of wagashi making, and enjoying tea ceremonies. Some tours might also include other local desserts and pastries.
Most culinary tours and cooking classes range from 3 to 4 hours, allowing ample time for tasting, learning, and exploration.
Nagoya experiences distinct seasons. Tours are typically held rain or shine, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Some indoor activities will be part of the experience.
Group sizes vary, but many tours aim for smaller numbers (typically 4-10 people) to enhance the interactive and personal experience. Cooking classes are often limited to a maximum of 8-10 participants.
Tours generally include all food tastings specified in the itinerary. Cooking classes cover ingredients, equipment, and instruction. Some tours may include local beverages or tea.
Meeting points are usually in easily accessible locations, such as near major train stations (e.g., Nagoya Station) or within the area of the tour's focus. Specific details are provided upon booking.
The tour price typically covers listed tastings and activities. Any additional food or drinks purchased outside the itinerary, souvenirs, or personal expenses are not included.
Book in advance, especially for popular cooking classes or specific tasting tours, as spots can fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes. Many food tours involve a fair amount of walking through markets and city streets.
Inform your tour operator about any dietary restrictions or allergies well in advance of your tour. Many can accommodate, but notice is crucial.
Go with an open mind and an empty stomach. Nagoya's cuisine has unique flavors, and trying a little bit of everything is part of the adventure.
Consider timing your tour to coincide with lunchtime or early evening when many local eateries are at their liveliest.
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Your guide is a wealth of knowledge about local food culture, history, and customs.
Carry some cash for small purchases, especially if you plan to explore markets where some vendors might prefer it.
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Nagoya can get hot and humid in summer and chilly in winter.
A: Nagoya is renowned for its 'miso katsu' (pork cutlet with red miso sauce), 'hitsumabushi' (a layered grilled eel dish), 'tebasaki' (spicy chicken wings), and various dishes featuring its distinctive red miso paste. You'll get to try many of these on food tours.
A: While many tours focus on meat and fish, it's essential to communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies to the tour operator when booking. Some tours offer vegetarian options or can adapt certain tastings, especially if you provide advance notice.
A: Tasting tours are designed to offer a substantial sampling of several dishes throughout the tour. It's usually enough for a full meal, but not excessively so, allowing you to enjoy the variety without feeling overwhelmed.
A: A food tour is about exploring and tasting various local dishes at different venues, guided by an expert. A cooking class involves hands-on learning where you prepare specific dishes yourself under professional instruction, then enjoy the meal you've made.
A: Yes, many tour operators offer private culinary experiences. This is a great option for groups or for travelers seeking a more personalized itinerary. You can usually arrange this directly with the operator.
A: Wagashi are traditional Japanese confections, often beautifully crafted and made with ingredients like red bean paste, mochi, and fruits. Nagoya has a long history of producing exquisite wagashi, with many shops specializing in unique regional variations.
A: Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered impolite. Service charges are usually included in the price, and your guide will appreciate your engagement and enjoyment of the tour.
A: Many Nagoya culinary experiences will naturally incorporate the local red miso, as it's a cornerstone of the city's cuisine. Look for tours that explicitly mention tasting miso katsu, miso ramen, or other miso-based local specialties.
Experience Toyota's birthplace and automotive history in Nagoya, a hub of Japanese innovation.
Discover Nagoya Castle's impressive reconstruction and rich samurai heritage firsthand.
Enjoy delicious local cuisine like Miso Katsu, a unique Nagoya specialty.
Explore the Tokugawa Art Museum, showcasing exquisite historical Japanese artifacts.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sakae, Nagoya's bustling entertainment district.
Nagoya offers a blend of industrial prowess and deep cultural roots.
Nagoya experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, often with a rainy season in June and July, followed by typhoon season in late summer. Winters are generally mild but can be cold, with occasional light snow. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best months to visit Nagoya. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities like exploring parks and attending festivals.
The peak season generally falls during spring (cherry blossom season, late March to early April) and autumn (fall foliage, November). Expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices during these popular times.
The summer months (June to August), especially during the rainy season and hot periods, and the winter months (December to February) are considered off-season. While the weather might be less ideal, you'll encounter fewer tourists and potentially find better deals on travel and accommodation.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Explore Japan's automotive heartland with immersive tours celebrating innovation and iconic brands in Nagoya and Aichi.
Uncover the storied past of Nagoya, from its majestic castle to the era of the samurai, with expertly guided tours.
Explore Nagoya's vibrant Osu district, a unique blend of traditional culture, quirky shops, and lively street food on guided walks.
Discover Nagoya's vibrant Sakae district after dark with curated tours showcasing its dynamic bars, izakayas, and unique entertainment.
Explore Nagoya's spiritual heart, from ancient Buddhist temples to vibrant Shinto shrines, on expertly guided tours.
Getting around Nagoya is quite straightforward thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The Nagoya Municipal Subway, with its extensive network of lines, is the most convenient way to navigate the city. Day passes are available and offer great value. The Meitetsu and JR train lines also connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are another option, though often slower than the subway. Taxis are readily available but can be more expensive for longer distances. Exploring Nagoya on foot is also pleasant in designated districts like Sakae or around Osu.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Nagoya adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.