Atsuta Shrine Visit & Sweets-Making Experience in Nagoya
Overview
Book a special half-day tour to discover the sacred atmosphere of Atsuta Shrine in the fresh morning air with a knowledgable guide. Here, you’ll soak in the centuries-old serenity at the home to one of Japan’s legendary sacred treasures, the Kusanagi Sword. Afterward, at a renowned Japanese sweets shop you’ll learn to make traditional sweets, and you’ll make authentic matcha green tea and receive a tea whisk as a keepsake. A unique chance to fully immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural traditions off the beaten track.
Highlights
- Expert guidance: learn from a knowledgeable guide
- Exclusive private tour: enjoy a personalized experience tailored just for you
- Food culture: enjoy a hands-on introduction to two beloved Japanese traditions: wagashi sweets and matcha tea
- Japanese history: discover the fascinating legacy of Atsuta Shrine
- Special experience: learn directly from master craftsmen, making both sweets and matcha firsthand
Key Information
Important Information
• Please contact in advance if you cannot arrive by the meeting time of 07:30 • If you cannot arrive at the meeting place by 08:15, your reservation will be canceled • Latecomers and no-shows are not eligible for refund on account of missing the tour • Please wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to move in • Participants must be aged 12+ • The tour is usually offered in English, but French- Spanish- or Chinese-speaking guides may be available on request Itinerary • 07:30 — Meet guide at your hotel in Nagoya and transfer by taxi (early departure to beat rush hour) • 08:00 — Visit Atsuta Shrine • 09:00 — Experience making Japanese sweets at Azuki Chaya in Atsuta nagAya • 10:00 — Experience making matcha and tasting with your Japanese sweets at Myokoen in Atsuta nagAya • 11:00 — Transfer by taxi • 11:30 — Arrive at hotel in the city; tour ends
Description
Your Atsuta Shrine adventure begins when you meet your guide in the comfort of your Nagoya hotel. Together, you’ll take a short taxi ride to the historic Atsuta Shrine, where Japan’s mythical Kusanagi Sword is enshrined. Starting early, touring the shrine in the fresh morning air is highly recommended!
As you walk the tranquil grounds, your guide will share fascinating stories about this sacred site and its cultural significance, offering you a deep sense of reverence and connection to Japan’s history. Enjoy the shrine's quiet pathways and admire the beautiful architecture, soaking in the atmosphere of this sacred place.
After strolling the grounds, your cultural immersion takes a delicious turn with a visit to Azuki Chaya, a traditional sweets shop with a rich legacy in the art of Japanese confectionery. Here, under the guidance of a skilled craftsman, you’ll have the chance to make your own Japanese sweets, known as wagashi. These delicate treats reflect the seasons of Japan, making each piece a work of small piece of art. You will also have the opportunity to experience making authentic matcha green tea at the long-established tea shop, Myokoen, and take home a tea whisk as a gift.
Finally, you’ll make your way back to your hotel, accompanied in the taxi by your guide. Enjoy more than just an outing — this tour is a journey into the heart of Japan’s traditions, bringing you closer to the country’s spirit and history in an intimate and unforgettable way.
