Handa: Vinegar Tasting and Umami Seasoning Shopping Near Nagoya

Aichi Prefecture , Japan

Handa: Vinegar Tasting and Umami Seasoning Shopping Near Nagoya

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

Handa: Vinegar Tasting and Umami Seasoning Shopping Near Nagoya

What's included

Vinegar tasting

English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide at JR Handa Station and take a short walk to the Handa Canal, where rows of traditional storehouses with black walls create a distinctly historic and atmospheric setting.

Visit a beautifully preserved historical Japanese residence.
Taste five types of vinegar and discover their unique characteristics in this authentic setting.
After the tasting, browse and purchase miso, soy sauce, and other umami-rich seasonings made in this region known for its long-standing fermentation culture.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Handa’s streets, visiting food-related spots such as a sake museum and long-standing wagashi (Japanese sweets) shops.

What's not included

Transportation to or from the meeting point

Food or drinks other than the vinegar tasting

Purchases at shops (miso, soy sauce, sweets, etc.)

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Do you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions?

If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance by specifying the details.

Meeting point

Your guide, holding a sign with your name, will be waiting for you near the ticket gate at JR Handa Station. (Please note that this is not Meitetsu Chita Handa Station.)

About Aichi Prefecture

Aichi Prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan, is a dynamic blend of cutting-edge technology and rich cultural heritage. Home to Nagoya, a bustling metropolis, and scenic rural areas, Aichi offers a diverse travel experience from historical landmarks to modern innovations and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Nagoya Castle

A historic castle that served as the seat of power for the Tokugawa clan. The castle has been reconstructed and now houses a museum.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥500

Atsuta Shrine

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, home to the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three imperial regalia of Japan.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (Treasure Museum: ¥300)

Legoland Japan

A popular theme park featuring Lego-themed rides, shows, and attractions, perfect for families with children.

Entertainment Full day ¥5,800-¥7,800

Nagoya Port Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in Japan, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥2,200

Tokugawa Art Museum

A museum housing a vast collection of art and artifacts from the Tokugawa era, providing insights into Japan's feudal history.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥600

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hitsumabushi

Grilled eel served over rice, often topped with condiments like nori (seaweed) and green onions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and seafood

Miso Katsu

Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet topped with a rich miso sauce, served with rice and miso soup.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork and wheat

Taiwan Ramen

A Nagoya specialty, this ramen features a rich, spicy broth with ingredients like garlic, butter, and miso.

Dinner/Snack Contains wheat, soy, and sometimes pork

Kishimen

Flat, thick noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with green onions and kamaboko (fish cake).

Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat and sometimes fish

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Japanese Alps Paragliding in the surrounding areas Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional crafts workshops Temple and shrine visits Boat tours on the Nagara River Skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. These seasons have comfortable temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Aichi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, travelers should still exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance, especially in tourist areas.

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 35 km from Nagoya
Nagoya Airport • 35 km from Nagoya

By train

Nagoya Station

By bus

Nagoya Station Bus Terminal, Sakae Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient and easy to use, with multiple lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sakae Nakamura Kanayama

Day trips

Inuyama

20 km from Nagoya • Half day to full day

A charming town known for its castle, temples, and traditional crafts. Inuyama offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Gifu

30 km from Nagoya • Full day

A city rich in history and culture, known for its castle, temples, and traditional crafts. Gifu offers a variety of cultural experiences.

Shirakawa-go

100 km from Nagoya • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional thatched-roof farmhouses and beautiful landscapes. Shirakawa-go offers a unique cultural experience.

Festivals

Nagoya Matsuri • Early October Atsuta Matsuri • June 5th Owari Tsukemono Festival • Mid-November

Pro tips

Use an IC card (e.g., Manaca card) for seamless payments on public transport and at convenience stores.
Download a navigation app like Google Maps or Japan Travel by Navitime to help you get around the city.
Try local specialties like Hitsumabushi, Miso Katsu, and Taiwan Ramen for an authentic Nagoya experience.
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Be mindful of cultural norms and customs, and always follow proper etiquette when visiting religious sites or traditional buildings.