Uncovering the enigmatic world of Edo-era ninjas, this immersive 8-hour tour takes travelers along the historic Tokaido Road – the vital artery that once connected Japan’s political and cultural centers. Led by an English-speaking guide, guests will explore the myths and mysteries surrounding these legendary figures, with highlights including a shuriken throwing experience and an exploration of the secretive Koka Ninja House. From the atmospheric Seki Post Town to the serene Aburahi Shrine, this journey promises to shed light on a captivating chapter of Japan’s past that continues to capture the public imagination.
Key Points
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Embark on an 8-hour guided tour from Nagoya Station, exploring the historical Tokaido Road and immersing in the myths and mysteries surrounding ninjas.
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Visit the Seki Post Town, Aburahi Shrine, and the Koka Ninja House to gain insights into Edo-era Japan’s culture, architecture, and ninja traditions.
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Participate in a shuriken (ninja star) throwing experience at the Koka Ninja House, learning about the legendary martial arts and espionage tactics of the ninja.
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Gain a deeper understanding of the Tokaido Road’s vital role in connecting Edo-period Japan’s political and cultural centers through the guided tours.
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Enjoy convenient transportation and access to the tour, with Nagoya Station serving as the starting and ending point for the exploration of ninja lore and the historic Tokaido Road.
Tour Overview
This tour provides insight into the daily lives of ninjas and the Tokaido road, the most important route of Edo-era Japan. It’s an 8-hour experience led by an English-speaking guide.
The tour starts and ends at Nagoya Station, visiting Seki Post Town, Aburahi Shrine, and the Koka Ninja House. Along the way, guests will enjoy transportation, entry fees, a shuriken (ninja star) throwing experience, and lunch.
While the tour doesn’t include transportation to/from Nagoya Station or accommodation, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore the myths and mystery surrounding ninjas and the historic Tokaido road.
The tour costs $202.92 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Seki.
Itinerary
The tour begins at Nagoya Station, where guests embark on an 8-hour journey to explore the Edo-era landmarks along the Tokaido road. The itinerary includes:
- A 2.25-hour guided tour of Seki Post Town, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of ninjas and the importance of the Tokaido road.
- A 45-minute guided tour of Aburahi Shrine, a spiritual site with historical significance.
- A 1.5-hour guided tour of the Koka Ninja House, providing an immersive experience in the world of these legendary warriors.
The tour concludes back at Nagoya Station, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich history and the myths and mysteries surrounding the ninja.
Start Location
At Nagoya Station, guests embark on an 8-hour journey to explore the Edo-era landmarks along the Tokaido road. This tour’s starting point, Nagoya Station, serves as a convenient hub for travelers, offering easy access to the historical sites featured throughout the day.
From here, the group will depart on a guided exploration of the Seki Post Town, Aburahi Shrine, and the renowned Koka Ninja House. With an English-speaking tour guide leading the way, guests can look forward to seeing the myths and mysteries surrounding the lives of ninjas and the significance of the Tokaido, Japan’s most important historical trade route.
Seki Post Town
Upon departure from Nagoya Station, the group embarks on a 2.25-hour guided tour of the historic Seki Post Town. This critical rest stop along the Tokaido Road offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Edo-era travelers.
Visitors can explore:
- The Seki Castle ruins, which provided protection and respite for weary travelers.
- The Honjin, a luxurious inn that hosted high-ranking samurai and daimyo.
- The charming streets lined with traditional machiya townhouses, where visitors can imagine the bustling atmosphere of a post town centuries ago.
Through this immersive experience, the tour unveils the rich history and enduring legacy of the Tokaido Road, a vital artery that connected the political and cultural centers of Edo-period Japan.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAburahi Shrine
After exploring the historic Seki Post Town, the tour group makes its way to the next stop, Aburahi Shrine. This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the deity Aburahi no Kami, who’s believed to protect travelers along the Tokaido Road. The group spends 45 minutes guided through the shrine’s tranquil grounds, learning about its history and significance.
They admire the beautifully carved wooden architecture and walk the path to the main hall, where they can offer a prayer or toss a coin into the offering box. The shrine’s serene atmosphere provides a welcome respite before the group continues their journey along the legendary Tokaido Road.
Koka Ninja House
The Koka Ninja House marks the highlight of the tour, offering an immersive glimpse into the secretive world of the ninja. Visitors can explore the historical residence and learn about the legendary martial arts, espionage tactics, and mystical training of these stealthy warriors.
The experience includes:
- A guided tour through the hidden compartments, trap doors, and ingenious architectural design that exemplified the ninja’s commitment to stealth and deception.
- An opportunity to try shuriken (ninja star) throwing, a signature skill of the ninja.
- Insights into the daily lives, traditions, and codes of honor that shaped the legendary ninja culture.
This captivating stop promises to leave a lasting impression, as the Koka Ninja House brings the myths and mysteries of these iconic figures to life.
End Location
At the conclusion of the immersive tour, participants return to Nagoya Station. This central transportation hub offers seamless connections to explore the wider Chubu region or continue their journey across Japan. As the starting and ending point of the adventure, Nagoya Station acts as a convenient bookend, allowing visitors to easily access the tour and make their way back home.
| Connections | Details |
|---|---|
| Train | Shinkansen, Limited Express, and Regional Services |
| Bus | Highway Buses, Local Buses |
| Metro | Nagoya Municipal Subway |
| Taxi | Readily Available |
With the mysteries of the ninja and the Tokaido Road now uncovered, the tour concludes, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for this captivating aspect of Japanese history and culture.
Booking and Payment
Booking the "Myths and Mystery of Ninja and the Tokaido Road" tour is a straightforward process. The tour is priced at $202.92 per person, and travelers can reserve their spots now and pay later. This tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The booking process includes three simple steps:
- Select the desired tour date and number of participants.
- Provide the necessary contact and payment information.
- Receive a confirmation email with all the tour details.
With these convenient booking options, exploring the myths and mystery of ninjas and the Tokaido road has never been easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour has no minimum age requirement. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the tour and experience the insights into ninja daily lives and the Tokaido road in Edo-era Japan.
Do the Tour Guides Provide Translation Services for Other Languages?
The tour guides provide English-speaking services during the tour. However, translation services for other languages are not explicitly mentioned in the tour details provided. Travelers requiring translation assistance in other languages should inquire with the tour operator prior to booking.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but the English-speaking tour guide can provide translation services for other languages upon request. Participants should inquire about this option when making their booking.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?
The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Travelers with special dietary needs should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure accommodations can be made.
Can I Bring My Own Ninja Weapons to the Tour?
No, bringing personal ninja weapons is not permitted on the tour. The tour organizers provide all necessary equipment, including shuriken (ninja stars) for the throwing experience, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Recap
This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Edo-era ninjas and the historic Tokaido Road. Travelers will explore Seki Post Town, Aburahi Shrine, and the Koka Ninja House, gaining a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich history and the myths surrounding these legendary figures. The experience includes a shuriken throwing session and an exploration of the secretive ninja culture along the vital artery of the Edo period.
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