These Are the Breathtaking Views in Aichi You’ll Want to Show Off! 7 Recommended Tourist Spots

Apart from the urban tourist spots centered around Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture is home to many breathtaking scenic locations! Visiting these stunning spots and witnessing the unique views they offer might even change your life. Now, let's explore the captivating natural landscapes of Aichi that will take your breath away.

1. Aichi’s Proudly Enchanting Scenery – The Most Stunning Autumn Colors in the Tokai Region! "Kōrankei"

Located in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, "Kōrankei" is a breathtaking natural spot consisting of Mount Iimori and the surrounding valley. While Mount Iimori offers beautiful scenery all year round, it is especially stunning in autumn when the fall foliage is at its peak.
The mountain is home to approximately 4,000 maple trees of 11 different varieties, creating a stunning gradient of red and yellow across the entire mountain during autumn. Additionally, the reflection of the autumn leaves on the water’s surface creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere.
One of the must-visit spots is the area around Taigetsu Bridge and the Momiji Tunnel! Every autumn, the "Momiji Festival" is held, and from sunset until 9:00 PM, visitors can enjoy the illuminated fall foliage. The sight of the glowing autumn leaves against the night sky is truly a must-see view. While it takes around 70 minutes by bus from Higashi-Okazaki Station in Toyota City, the breathtaking scenery is well worth the journey.

2. The Sacred Land of Inari Shrines – "Toyokawa Inari"

Located in Toyokawa City, Aichi Prefecture, Toyokawa Inari is a Sōtō Zen temple with an awe-inspiring presence, making it one of Aichi’s must-see scenic spots. The temple grounds feature a towering torii gate along the main approach, and it is famous for its blessings in business prosperity, attracting both business owners and general tourists alike. It is also said to bring good fortune in wealth, as even historical figures like Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi once visited this shrine.
One of the most remarkable sights within Toyokawa Inari is the "Reiko-zuka", where over 1,000 fox statues are enshrined. The sheer number of fox statues and the mystical atmosphere they create make this place an extraordinary sight. You won’t find a collection of fox statues like this anywhere else! If you visit Aichi, this is definitely a spot you won’t want to miss.
After admiring the stunning scenery of Toyokawa Inari, it is highly recommended to try its specialty: "Inari Sushi." This temple’s unique take on inari sushi has gained attention among sushi enthusiasts.

3. A Dreamy View of the Milky Way – A Paradise for Astronomy Enthusiasts, "Chausuyama"

The highest peak in Aichi Prefecture and the closest to the sky is Chausuyama, located in Toyone Village, Kitashitara District. More than just its height, the mountain is a mecca for astronomy lovers, with a night sky so breathtaking that words fail to describe the sight of the Milky Way and meteor showers. The summit’s observation deck also offers spectacular views of vibrant seasonal flowers, a true gift of nature.
The best season to visit is May, when the shiba-zakura (moss phlox) blooms, covering the entire area in a brilliant pink carpet—a truly stunning sight. On clear days, you can see as far as Oku-Mikawa and the Japanese Alps. Although Chausuyama stands at 1,477 meters, it is considered relatively easy to hike, making it accessible even for beginners looking for a casual trekking experience. Many tour buses operate from various locations in Aichi, making it easy for tourists to visit.
Additionally, the Chausuyama area offers hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking or climbing. It’s an all-season destination that offers both adventure and relaxation.

4. A Hidden Gem! The Vast Green Urban Botanical Garden "Greenpia Kasugai"

Located in Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture, Greenpia Kasugai is a scenic botanical garden that flourishes with plants all year round. Nestled at the foot of three mountains known as "Kasugai Sanzan," the area is rich in greenery, and you can enjoy the beauty of seasonal flowers like pansies throughout the year.
At the Animal Interaction Plaza, children can have a fun and exciting experience meeting adorable animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, and ponies. The garden is vast, taking around three hours to stroll through at a relaxed pace. Walking in nature will surely leave you feeling refreshed. There are also open spaces and a rest house where you can relax and unwind.
If you’re visiting Kasugai City in Aichi, Greenpia Kasugai is a must-visit spot. It offers beautiful landscapes that change with the seasons, opportunities to interact with animals, and a lively atmosphere filled with families. This makes it one of Aichi’s hidden scenic gems.

5. A Majestic Panorama! "Mount Horai" in Shinshiro City, Aichi

Mount Horai, located in Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture, offers breathtaking views from its summit. It is particularly famous as a scenic autumn foliage spot and is home to Horai-ji Temple, which attracts many repeat visitors. Horai-ji Temple has been designated as a National Scenic Spot and Natural Monument and was selected as one of Japan’s "Top 100 Geological Sites" in 2007.
To reach the summit, you must climb over 1,400 stone steps, but the effort is well worth the stunning view. The path is well-maintained, making the hike accessible for visitors. Another must-see attraction is the Kasa Sugi, said to be Japan's tallest cedar tree. This mystical tree is estimated to be over 800 years old and stands 60 meters high. If you enjoy walking and nature, this is a highly recommended spot.
When visiting Aichi, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Horai-ji, a renowned power spot in the region.

6. A Heartbreaking Love Story by the Sea – "Koijigahama" in Tahara City, Aichi

Aichi Prefecture is not only home to stunning mountain landscapes but also breathtaking coastal scenery. One such remarkable spot is Koijigahama Beach in Tahara City.
A tragic love story is associated with this beach. Long ago, a couple who were forbidden to be together fled to this coastal area. To avoid being seen, they lived apart, but before they could reunite, they both fell ill and passed away while calling each other's names. Today, the beach is known as a sacred place for lovers, and it is said that ringing the "Wishing Bell" towards Koijigahama Beach will make wishes come true. Many couples visit to pray for everlasting love.
Koijigahama Beach stretches about 1 km from Irago Cape Lighthouse to Hinode Stone Gate, offering stunning views. The sunrise and sunset over the beach are particularly breathtaking, making it a must-visit spot. Additionally, Irago Cape Lighthouse is also recognized as a "Lovers’ Sanctuary." The beach is not only a scenic spot but also a powerful spiritual location, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers.

7. A Scenic Spot That Feels Like Time Travel to the Meiji Era! "Meiji Mura Museum"

One of the most unique scenic spots in Aichi Prefecture is Meiji Mura Museum, located in Inuyama City. This open-air museum offers an immersive experience, making you feel as if you've stepped into a painting from the Meiji era. Known as a "living village," it houses over 60 buildings from the Meiji period, many of which are designated Important Cultural Properties. The vast landscape is filled with historical architecture showcasing Japan’s modernization and Western influence.
The museum is so large that visitors can explore it by riding a steam locomotive (SL), which is also an original from the Meiji era, carefully preserved and still operational. Some buildings from the Taisho era are also present, allowing visitors to compare the architectural differences between the two periods. The museum features numerous historical exhibits, seasonal events, and interactive activities such as trying on traditional Meiji-era clothing.

◎ Summary

As you can see, Aichi Prefecture is home to many breathtaking scenic spots. From majestic mountains to historic sites, the prefecture offers countless locations worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. The increasing number of tourists and hikers each year is a testament to the beauty of these destinations. Many of these sites are also considered power spots, believed to bring positive energy.
If you plan to visit Aichi, take the time to explore these stunning landscapes. The best seasons to experience their beauty are spring and autumn, when nature transforms with vibrant colors, making the scenery even more spectacular!