The land of Aichi Prefecture hides many unforgettable sights of breathtaking beauty. From the sea-clad shores of Cape Irago to the vibrant autumn leaves shining on the mountains of Korankei, the shibazakura (moss phlox) blooming in the highlands and the cascading waterfalls in the valleys – it is simply stunning!
Below are nine breathtaking places where you can completely immerse yourself in Aichi's natural beauty. May they add vibrant color to your trip!
Iragosaki (Iragosaki)
Iragosaki Cape is located at the very tip of the Atsumi Peninsula, offering an incredibly open and spacious environment. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, the sea breeze blows freely, and exceptionally open views welcome every visitor. The white lighthouse and gently sloping sandy beach create a nostalgic atmosphere that invites deep relaxation – that's its charm. In the evening, both the sky and the sea are bathed in light colours, providing a truly special moment.
Spring brings vibrant rapeseed flowers, while the autumn air is refreshing. Each season presents its own unique beauty. If you want to escape the city's hustle and bustle and refresh both body and mind, this is an exceptional option!
- Address: 3000-65 Miyashita, Irago-cho, Tahara City, Aichi Prefecture
- Transportation:
- Bus: Take the Toyotetsu Bus Irago Main Line from Meitetsu/JR Toyohashi Station to Irago Misaki Station. It's a 5-minute walk from there.
- By Car: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from the Toyokawa IC on the Tomei Expressway.
Kōrankei (香嵐渓)
Korankei in Toyota City's Asuke Town stands as the premier destination for autumn foliage viewing in the Tokai region. When autumn arrives, the nearly 4,000 maple trees along the Haba River Valley are mesmerizing, turning vibrant reds and yellows. The interplay of these colors reflecting on the river surface and rustling in the wind creates an unforgettable sight. At night, the illuminated trees add a dreamlike beauty to the landscape.
While the fall season is highly recommended, the fresh greenery of spring provides a refreshing view, and summer brings pleasant river breezes. No matter when you visit, you will experience the diverse charm of nature – truly an extraordinary destination!
- Address: Iimori, Asuke-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture
- Transportation:
- Bus: Take the Meitetsu Bus Asuke Line from Meitetsu Toyota City Station to Kōrankei Station, then walk 2 minutes.
- By Car: Approximately 20 minutes from Toyota-Kanhachi IC on the Tokai Expressway.
Chausuyama Highlands (茶臼山高原)
Located in the northernmost part of Aichi Prefecture, the Chosuyama Plateau stands at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters. This highland area offers exceptionally wide views and refreshing fresh air, making it an ideal beautiful place to relax amidst nature.
The most popular attraction is the spring shibazakura (moss phlox). The hills are covered with gradients of pink and purple flowers, which blend seamlessly with the sky and mountain scenery. The view from the observation deck is breathtakingly beautiful, like a painting.
Don't assume that only spring is beautiful – summer's cool breezes, fall's red leaves, and winter's snowy landscapes each offer unique charms! Enjoy the diverse views of the plateau as per your itinerary.
- Address: 70-185 Gosho-daira, Sakauba, Toyone Village, Kitashitara District, Aichi Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car from the Iida Yamamoto Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.
Atera Seven Waterfalls (Atera no Nanataki)
Located in the mountains of New City, the A-Sea Seven Waterfall is a lovely scenic spot. This seven-tier waterfall looks serene and exudes the raw power of nature, leaving visitors in awe.
The water cascades down the cliff, glistening in the light, harmonizing with the tranquility of the forest to create a truly therapeutic landscape! A major attraction is the ability to walk right down to the waterfall's pool.
Its beauty is unmatched during the fresh greenery of early summer, while autumn turns it into a dream-like scene adorned with scarlet leaves. This is an exceptional place to visit for those seeking respite from the heat and relaxation in nature.
- Address: 5 Kuroose Arai, Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture
- Access:
- Bus: Take the S Bus Yoshikawa/Furi Line from JR Shinshiro Station to Atera Station, then walk 15 minutes.
- By Car: Approximately 25 minutes from Shin-Tomei Expressway, Shinshiro IC.
Nüyan Gorge (Nüyan Gorge)
Located within the new city, Nuyan Gorge is a mysterious canyon. The river flows through high rocky walls, while the towering cliffs create a landscape both spectacular and dreamlike.
Places named after rock formations, along with stalactite-like rock tunnels, offer the thrill of exploration while walking. There are some elevation changes on the way along the river, so comfortable shoes are recommended!
The fresh greenery of spring and summer is especially popular, but the red leaves of autumn and the fresh breeze of winter offer unique charm. For a slightly wild but captivating experience, this is the perfect choice.
- Address: Nyugan, Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Shinshinjo IC on the Shin-Tomei Expressway.
Yotsuya Senmaida (四谷の千枚田)
Yotsuya Senmaida, nestled in the mountains of Shinshiro city, offers an exceptionally spectacular terraced rice field landscape. Approximately 1,200 terraced grounds are neatly arranged with gentle slopes, showcasing one of Japan's most pristine pastoral scenes.
Roofs change with the seasons and weather. In spring, the paddy trees reflect the clear blue sky; As autumn arrives, golden rice stalks sway in the wind, tempting visitors to capture the moment with their cameras.
Apart from the planting and harvesting season, foggy mornings or dusk provide prime viewing opportunities. For travelers seeking spiritual solace, this place is a must visit!
- Address: 230 Yotsuya, Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture
- Transportation:
- Bus: Take the S Bus Yoshikawa/Furi Line from JR Hon-Nagashino Station. Alight at Yotsuya Senmaida Entrance Station and walk approximately 10 minutes.
- By Car: Approximately 25 minutes from the Shin-Tomei Expressway's Shinjo IC.
Nagashino Embankment (長篠堰堤)
Nagashino Weir, located on the Toyokawa River, is a historic water control structure. Originally a small-scale dam, its curved water curtain, combined with the force of flowing water, creates a breathtaking sight. Built in the early Showa period, this weir has been designated a civil engineering heritage site, demonstrating the picturesque harmony between human construction and nature.
Especially during summers when the water level is high, the splash of white water drops provides a refreshing coolness. The serene sound of water along the river and the beauty of its old structure is completely mesmerizing. Why not stop and listen to the gurgling sound of water and silently feel the passing of time?
- Address: Kuraki, Yokogawa, Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture
- Access:
- Bus: Take the Toyotetsu Bus Shinshiro Sakaemachi Line from JR Hon-Nagashino Station. Alight at Nagashino Yate-mae Station and walk for 1 minute.
- By Car: Approximately 20 minutes from the Shin-Tomei Expressway's Shinshiro Interchange.
Tsutanobuchi (蔦の渕)
Tsutazubauchi is a large waterfall on the Osanegawa River in the city of Higashisake. Approximately 70 meters wide and 10 meters high, its waterfall curtain blends seamlessly with Okumikawa's natural landscape.
It is especially spectacular during summer when water flow is abundant. The spray carried by the wind makes for a breathtaking sight! Tourists can walk close to the waterfall to experience the intensity and sound of the water up close.
While its lush summer foliage is undeniably beautiful, the vibrant autumn foliage and cool winter landscapes offer unique charm. Immerse yourself in the energy of nature and refresh both body and mind!
- Address: 21 Hanada, Shimoda, Higashi-Sakae-cho, Kita-Shitara District, Aichi Prefecture
- Transportation:
- Bus: Take the Higashi Sakae Town Bus Higashi Sakae Line or Higashi Sakae Onsen Line from JR Higashi Sakae Station. Get off at Tsutanobuchi Station and walk for 5 minutes.
- By Car: Approximately 40 minutes from Shin-Tomei Expressway's Shinshiro IC.
Mitsumata Pond Park（三ツ又池公園）
Mitsumata Pond Park, located in Yatomi City, is a charming seaside park. In spring, the grounds become colorful with moss phlox and forget-me-nots, creating a vibrant floral carpet that mesmerizes visitors.
The view of the flower fields across the pond is highly photogenic and heart soothing. Seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms and tulips add joy throughout the year.
While the flowering season is a highlight, the park is also suitable for a leisurely weekend walk. It is an ideal scenic spot for those who want to feel the rhythm of the changing seasons.
- Address: 1-709-5 Torigechi, Yatomi City, Aichi Prefecture
- Access:
- By bus: From Meitetsu Yatomi Station, take the Yatomi City Community Bus North Line to Mitsumata Pond Park stop, then walk 1 minute.
- By car: About 10 minutes from Yatomi IC on the Higashi-Meihan Expressway.
Komaki Mountain（小牧山）
Komaki Mountain is a green hill in the center of Komaki city. The ruins of Komakiyama Castle, built by Oda Nobunaga during the Sengoku period, remain here, blending history with nature in a picturesque landscape.
In spring, about 500 cherry trees bloom throughout the mountain, filling the walking paths with light colors. From the summit's observation deck, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city below.
In addition to cherry blossom season, cool summer shade and bright autumn foliage make Komaki Mountain a year-round attraction. This is a wonderful place for those looking for peace away from the big tourist spots.
- Address: Komakiyama, Horinouchi 1-chome, Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture
- Access:
- By bus: From Meitetsu Komaki Station, take the Komaki Loop Bus (Komaki Station–City Hall Line) to Komakiyama-mae stop, then walk 1 minute.
- By car: About 5 minutes from Komaki IC on the Tomei Expressway.
