Autumn Leaf Season Viewing | Mino Old Street + Korankei One-Day Tour - Luxury Small Group
【Ancient Street & Maple Charm - Mino Udatsu Old Street】
Stroll through the centuries-old Mino Udatsu Old Street, where Edo-style wooden townhouses are nestled among autumn leaves. Walk through the simple alleys, feel the unique tranquility of the home of Washi paper, and experience the Japanese-style autumn street scenery against the backdrop of red maples.
【Korankei Autumn Leaf Feast】
Head to the famous Japanese autumn leaf viewing spot, Korankei, and enjoy the fiery red maples covering the mountains along the stream. The stream and red leaves reflect each other, creating a stunning scene of layered colors. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Japanese autumn leaves.
【Comfortable Private Charter Car Tour】
Toyota Alphard or 10-seater minibus business models are used throughout the trip, offering spacious and comfortable seating. Hotel pick-up and drop-off within 2 km of Nagoya Station, no need to transfer public transportation, travel easily with your autumn leaf viewing luggage.
【Ample Time for Autumn Leaf Viewing】
The itinerary is relaxed, with plenty of time reserved at each attraction for autumn leaf viewing. No rushing through attractions, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the autumn scenery and take photos.
Package Options
Product Info
—— 4 People to Form a Group・Comfortable Business Car・Monet's Masterpiece & Edo Romance・Korankei Autumn Leaf Secret Spot ——
Itinerary Core: Depart from Nagoya for a one-day trip covering the thousand-year-old Edo street and Japan's top autumn leaf secret spot. Rejecting the rushed pace of large bus tours, this trip is designed for those who pursue photography, autumn scenery, and a comfortable experience.
Why choose this route?
Traverse the Edo Old Street - Mino Udatsu Old Street: Stroll through an 'Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings' with a 400-year history. The towering and ornate 'Udatsu' firewalls tell the story of the former paper merchants' glory. Reserved with extra-long lunch and roaming time, compared to the crowded streets of Kyoto, it is quiet in autumn with red leaves adorning the ancient buildings, full of atmosphere.
Korankei Autumn Leaf Feast - Korankei: A super popular autumn leaf viewing spot in central Japan. Red maples cover the mountains along the stream trail, with the stream and red leaves reflecting each other, creating a stunning scene of layered colors. It is a must-visit autumn leaf secret spot in the central region.
Ultimate Luxury Experience - 4 People to Form a Group: Minimized group size ensures privacy and flexibility. Families, couples, or friends traveling together can enjoy an experience close to a private charter car.
Comfortable Business Car: Toyota Alphard or comfortable business car, spacious seats, independent air conditioning, stable and comfortable even on winding mountain roads.
Pure Travel, No Shopping: No shopping stops throughout the trip; all time is left for autumn leaves, scenery, and free exploration.
▼ Mino Old Street: Located in Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, the Udatsu Wall streetscape is like a flowing Edo-period scroll, vividly presenting the town's atmosphere from 1603-1868. The Udatsu-style buildings along the street are full of ancient charm, with the mansions of wealthy merchants being particularly eye-catching — complex gables decorate the towering roofs, silently telling the story of the former owners' prominent status and immense wealth. During the Edo period, Mino City rose to become a commercial hub thanks to the Mino Washi paper industry, and the paper produced there was sold far and wide, creating a legendary tale of prosperity.
Korankei is a very famous autumn leaf viewing spot in the Tokai region of Japan, located on the Tomoe River in Asuke-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. It is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage. Every November, about 4,000 maple trees gradually turn red, forming a spectacular autumn landscape. In addition to the autumn leaves, Korankei has different natural scenery throughout the four seasons. In spring, you can enjoy pale purple dogtooth violets; in summer, the area is filled with fresh greenery; and in winter, you can experience a different kind of charm amidst the withered plants. The name Korankei comes from the 'Ko' of Kojaku-ji Temple and the 'Ran' of the mountain mist (arashi) emitted by the valley; 'arashi' also means clear air. Kojaku-ji is an old Soto Zen temple built in 1427, located in the heart of Korankei. The temple also sells maple-leaf-shaped ema (votive tablets) for visitors to purchase. Every year from November 1st to 30th, Korankei holds an Autumn Leaf Festival, where you can enjoy the autumn leaves not only during the day but also during the evening illumination event.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Aichi Prefecture - Gifu Prefecture
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Business car, premium business car
Bus Company: RBC Daichi Kanko or equivalent
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Group Size: 4
Tour Leader: None
Tour Guide: None
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: Chowa Travel Co., Ltd.
Address: 2-18 Tadetsucho, Gifu City
License Number: Gifu Prefecture Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-328
Travel Agency Association: ANTA Full Member
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 09:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The changing of autumn leaves is affected by temperature and weather, so there is uncertainty regarding the viewing experience; we cannot guarantee that you will see the autumn leaves.
Please be sure to comply with local Japanese laws and regulations. Do not carry items prohibited by Japanese law to avoid legal issues that may affect your rights.
During free time, please pay attention to your personal safety and belongings. If you ignore advice and accidents occur or losses are incurred, you are responsible for the consequences.
Travelers aged 70 (inclusive) and above must ensure they are in good health for travel and be accompanied by a family member or friend aged 22 or older throughout the trip.
Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult traveler throughout the trip.
We are committed to providing you with the best travel experience, but in some cases, we need to flexibly adjust the itinerary based on actual circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support.
FAQ
1. How much time is recommended for visiting Mino Old Town?
A visit to Mino Old Town typically requires about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing you to leisurely stroll through its centuries-old streets adorned with 'Utsushi' architectural features. This timeframe is sufficient to admire the Edo-style wooden townhouses, soak in the serene atmosphere unique to this 'Land of Washi' paper, and experience the charm of a traditional Japanese streetscape complemented by autumn foliage. It also leaves ample time for photographs.
2. How can I get to Korankei from Nagoya city center?
The most convenient and comfortable way to reach Korankei from Nagoya city center is by joining an organized day tour with dedicated transportation. These tours usually offer hotel pick-up services around Nagoya Station and utilize comfortable vehicles. This eliminates the hassle of planning your own transportation routes and transfers, allowing you to reach Korankei directly and enjoy a hassle-free autumn foliage viewing trip.
3. When is the best time to see the autumn leaves at Korankei?
The peak viewing season for autumn leaves at Korankei is typically from mid-November to late November each year. During this period, the maple leaves along both banks of the Tomoe River and the surrounding valleys turn a brilliant fiery red, creating a magnificent panorama of mountainsides covered in vibrant foliage. It is advisable to plan your trip in advance to capture the most beautiful autumn scenery and experience the breathtaking beauty of Japanese autumn.
4. What time do the illuminations usually start during the Korankei Autumn Leaf Festival?
During the Korankei Autumn Leaf Festival, the nighttime illumination typically begins after sunset, around 5 PM, and continues until 9 PM. Illuminated by the lights, the maple leaves at Korankei present a captivating night view distinct from the daytime scenery. The interplay of the stream and the autumn leaves creates a dreamlike autumn atmosphere, which is a highlight of the festival and not to be missed.
5. In which region of Japan is Korankei located?
Korankei is located in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, and is a renowned spot for autumn leaf viewing in the Chubu region. It is situated along the Tomoe River (a tributary of the Yahagi River) and is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage. Due to its relative proximity to Nagoya, many day tours departing from Nagoya include Korankei in their itinerary.
6. Besides viewing the old town scenery, what other unique experiences are available in Mino Old Town?
When visiting Mino Old Town, you can wander among well-preserved Edo-style wooden townhouses and admire their distinctive 'Utsushi' fire-resistant walls. This area is also known as the 'Land of Washi' paper, where you can experience the tranquil atmosphere of traditional Japanese papermaking and perhaps even participate in related cultural activities. In autumn, the scenery combining the old town and red maple leaves offers excellent photo opportunities, allowing you to experience a Japanese autumn that blends history and natural beauty.
7. In addition to the nighttime illuminations, what other activities or highlights are recommended during the Korankei Autumn Leaf Festival?
The main highlights of the Korankei Autumn Leaf Festival revolve around the natural beauty of the stream intertwined with autumn foliage. Besides the enchanting nighttime illuminations, you can stroll along the Tomoe River during the day to admire the mountainsides covered in fiery red maple leaves on both banks, experiencing the stunning scenery of vibrant foliage blanketing the landscape. Many visitors also choose to photograph the scenery where the autumn leaves and the stream complement each other during the day, fully immersing themselves in the unique atmosphere of Japanese autumn.
8. What are some recommended spots for photographing autumn leaves at Korankei?
Korankei offers numerous excellent locations for photographing autumn leaves. The most popular spots include the walking paths along both banks of the Tomoe River, where you can capture classic scenes of the stream beautifully contrasted with fiery red maple leaves. Additionally, the 'Taigetsukyo Bridge' spanning the Tomoe River is another famous viewpoint. From the bridge, you can overlook the entire valley's autumn foliage, especially in areas with dense maple clusters, providing rich layers and perfect opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
