Aichi Prefecture

Aichi Prefecture is an economically vibrant region that is home to major companies, such as Toyota Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and NGK Insulators. It is also famous for its traditional crafts and local specialties, such as miso-nikomi udon and tenmusu. Popular tourist spots include historical buildings, like Nagoya Castle, Tokugawaen, and Atsuta Shrine, and shopping areas, such as Osu Shopping Street and Sakae. The coastline around Chita Peninsula and Irako Cape is also beautiful.
Prefecture
Aichi Prefecture
Capital
Nagoya City
Population
7,553,000
Area
5,173 km²
Climate
The prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean and has a warm climate. Summer is relatively hot and humid, with muggy days. Winter is cold, with snow in mountainous areas. In spring, cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers bloom, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.
  • 【Laguna Ten Bosch】 Enjoy playing, eating, and shopping at this large-scale resort overlooking Mikawa Bay!

    【Laguna Ten Bosch】 Enjoy playing, eating, and shopping at this large-scale resort overlooking Mikawa Bay!

  • 【Sakushima】A Charming Island of Healing and Art Floating in Mikawa Bay

    【Sakushima】A Charming Island of Healing and Art Floating in Mikawa Bay

  • Meet Japan’s Largest Pool and Approximately 500 Species, 50,000 Marine Creatures

    Meet Japan’s Largest Pool and Approximately 500 Species, 50,000 Marine Creatures

  • 【Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine)】It receives about 6.5 million visitors annually! A highly respected shrine since ancient times

    【Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine)】It receives about 6.5 million visitors annually! A highly respected shrine since ancient times

  • 【Atsuta Houraiken】 Celebrating 150 years of service, the signature dish of this long-standing eel restaurant is Hitsumabushi

    【Atsuta Houraiken】 Celebrating 150 years of service, the signature dish of this long-standing eel restaurant is Hitsumabushi

  • 【Osu Shopping Street】 The most energetic shopping district in Japan, with around 1,200 shops

    【Osu Shopping Street】 The most energetic shopping district in Japan, with around 1,200 shops

  • 【Yabaton Yabacho Main Store】The go-to place for Nagoya’s famous Miso Katsu

    【Yabaton Yabacho Main Store】The go-to place for Nagoya’s famous Miso Katsu

  • 【Misen Yaba】Even on weekdays, there are always queues! Misen, the birthplace of Taiwanese ramen

    【Misen Yaba】Even on weekdays, there are always queues! Misen, the birthplace of Taiwanese ramen

  • 【Nagoya Castle】A Castle with Deep Connections to Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu

    【Nagoya Castle】A Castle with Deep Connections to Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu

  • Drawing on history and tradition, the beauty of Japan at 【Tokugawa Park】

    Drawing on history and tradition, the beauty of Japan at 【Tokugawa Park】

  • Discover the All-Day Charm of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

    Discover the All-Day Charm of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens

  • 【Toyota Municipal Museum of Art】A Museum That Feels Like a Work of Art Itself

    【Toyota Municipal Museum of Art】A Museum That Feels Like a Work of Art Itself

  • 【Toyota Oiden Festival】A summer tradition in Toyota with dancing and fireworks

    【Toyota Oiden Festival】A summer tradition in Toyota with dancing and fireworks

  • 【The Museum Meiji-Mura】Step into the Meiji era and admire authentic Meiji architecture

    【The Museum Meiji-Mura】Step into the Meiji era and admire authentic Meiji architecture

  • 【Inuyama Castle】Japan’s Oldest Surviving Castle Tower

    【Inuyama Castle】Japan’s Oldest Surviving Castle Tower

  • 【Japan Monkey Park】The Amusement Park of Sunshine and Smiles for Kids!

    【Japan Monkey Park】The Amusement Park of Sunshine and Smiles for Kids!

  • 【Kakukyu Hatcho Miso (Hatcho Miso no Sato)】 Discovering a Signature Brand Ingredient of Okazaki

    【Kakukyu Hatcho Miso (Hatcho Miso no Sato)】 Discovering a Signature Brand Ingredient of Okazaki

CONTENT

Where is Aichi Prefecture located?

Aichi Prefecture is located almost in the center of Japan, combining the historic regions of Owari and Mikawa. It faces the Pacific Ocean to the south and borders Mie Prefecture to the west, Gifu Prefecture to the north, Nagano Prefecture to the northeast, and Shizuoka Prefecture to the east.

What are some foods from Aichi Prefecture?

Aichi Prefecture has many local dishes that use a variety of ingredients, including miso-nikomi udon, one of Japan’s three major cuisines. Here are some representative dishes:

Miso-Nikomi Udon

A representative local dish of Aichi Prefecture, it consists of noodles and ingredients simmered in miso. It is characterized by its rich flavor, with plenty of vegetables and meat. It can be found at many restaurants, mainly in Nagoya City.

Tenmusu

These are bite-sized rice balls filled with small shrimp tempura. The key to enhancing the umami flavor of the seasoned shrimp tempura is not to sprinkle salt on the rice, and the combination of the plump texture of the shrimp, the fluffy tempura batter, and the rice is outstanding.

Hitsumabushi

A popular dish in Nagoya City, it consists of grilled eel served as a rice bowl with tea poured over it. It is typically eaten with pickled plums, green onions, wasabi, and green seaweed as condiments.

Chicken Wings

One of Nagoya’s specialties, these chicken wings, which are eaten with your fingers, are characterized by a sweet and spicy sauce with a kick of chili pepper. They are served at many izakayas and restaurants.

Ankake Spaghetti

A Nagoya-centric dish, this spaghetti is topped with a thick, starchy sauce. It contains pork and vegetables, making it quite filling.

Kishimen

These wide and thin udon noodles are a feature of summer, when served with a cold dipping sauce, and also winter, when served with a warm soup.

Aichi Prefecture offers a wealth of other regional dishes featuring seafood, vegetables, and fruits in addition to these representative dishes.

What are some of the tourist spots in Aichi Prefecture?

Aichi Prefecture has a variety of tourist spots, including historical sites showcasing traditional culture, modern facilities, and natural attractions. Here are a few examples:

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle is a historic building constructed during the Edo period (early 17C). Its three-story, six-floor keep is a national treasure. The castle grounds house a museum and exhibition rooms where visitors can learn about Nagoya Castle’s history and culture. The area around the castle boasts beautiful seasonal scenery, such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, attracting many tourists.

Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine is dedicated to the deities Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto and Susanoo-no-mikoto, who appear in Japanese mythology. Known as the gods of matchmaking, the shrine attracts many visitors. It has been visited by historical figures, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. The grounds feature many attractions, including the national treasure Atsuta Daiguji-cho and Atsuta’s Dragon.

Nagoya City Science Museum

The Nagoya City Science Museum features exhibits on astronomy, earth science, and life science. There are hands-on and experimental areas, as well as a planetarium. The museum’s Dome Theater offers immersive visuals and sound experiences. With numerous special exhibitions and events, the museum is popular with children and adults alike. There are also restaurants and shops on-site, allowing visitors to spend an entire day there.

Chita Peninsula

Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and Mikawa Bay, the Chita Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, hot springs, and stunning natural scenery.

As shown above, Aichi Prefecture offers a diverse array of tourist attractions, including historical buildings, facilities, and natural spots to enjoy.

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