Castle River Odyssey: Inuyama’s Historical Festivals and Cultural Rituals in Nagoya’s Northern Gem
- Douglas Jay Falcon
- Sep 7, 2025
- 2 min read
Inuyama, Nagoya’s historic northern outpost, pulses with a castle river odyssey, where vibrant historical festivals, quirky cultural rituals, and unique experiences offer a journey into Aichi’s samurai past, from lantern-lit castle parades to kendo sparring workshops, just 30 minutes from Nagoya Station by Meitetsu Line. Centered around the iconic Inuyama Castle and the Kiso River, this charming town draws history buffs and culture enthusiasts to its ancient streets, perfect for a unique experience after touring the castle or savoring unagi at a riverside diner. Revered by locals for its Sengoku-era heritage and serene beauty, Inuyama offers English-friendly signage at major venues, accessible event spaces, and lesser-known local traditions tucked in shrine gardens, balancing iconic festivals with hidden cultural gems. From glowing at the Inuyama Festival to practicing kendo at a historic dojo, Inuyama’s odyssey weaves a soulful tapestry where Nagoya’s samurai soul rises, inviting you to immerse in a world where castle towers and river lanterns embrace the spirit.
Inuyama Festival (April)
In Inuyama (free entry), this historic festival features towering lantern floats and taiko drumming, centered around Haritsuna Shrine, a 5-minute walk from Inuyama Station. Held first weekend of April.
Kendo Workshop (Inuyama Dojo)
In Inuyama (¥3,000–¥6,000 per session), this dojo offers samurai kendo sparring classes, a 7-minute walk from Inuyama Station.
Inuyama Station Area on Google
Kiso River Shrine Ritual (Lesser-Known)
In Inuyama (free entry), this hidden riverside shrine offers local-only purification rituals, a 10-minute walk from Inuyama Station.
Location Benefits: Inuyama’s Meitetsu Line links to Nagoya Station (30 minutes) or Gifu (20 minutes). Walkable Inuyama Castle, local unagi diners, and Meiji Mura Museum offer historical and cultural depth, with Inuyama Station’s access ideal for castle festivals and samurai rituals in Nagoya’s northern gem.
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