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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Toyohashi.
Nestled in the heart of Aichi Prefecture like a hidden gem, Toyohashi offers a bounty of experiences as diverse and vibrant as the hues of a cherry blossom tree.
Whether you’re a seeker of adventure or a connoisseur of culture, this city is sure to delight your senses with its buzzing atmosphere, world-class cuisine, and picturesque landscapes that’ll feed your wanderlust like no other.
So come, let’s embark on this journey of discovering the best things to do in Toyohashi.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Toyohashi:
1. Toyohashi Zoo & Botanical Park
Toyohashi Zoo & Botanical Park is a family-friendly destination located in Toyohashi City, Japan.
What to see or do: The park features a vast botanical garden section with over 1,000 species of plants, including a beautiful rose garden. Visitors can also experience a safari-style ride to see wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses up close.
The zoo section houses over 200 animal species from all over the world, including elephants, lions, and penguins, which are sure to delight children and adults alike.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the 24-meter-tall Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Another must-see attraction is the sea lion show, which takes place several times a day and features the playful antics of trained sea lions.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to take the safari ride early in the day, as this is one of the most popular attractions and can have long lines later in the day.
Visitors should also bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles, as the park can get quite hot during the summer months. On weekends and public holidays, the park may be crowded, so plan accordingly.
2. Yoshida Castle
Yoshida Castle, also known as Toyohashi Castle, is a historic Japanese castle located in Toyohashi City, Aichi Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb the castle tower, and learn about the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
The castle tower offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: The castle tower, which is the tallest wooden castle tower in Japan and an impressive example of Japanese castle architecture.
Also, be sure to check out the castle’s moat and the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom around the castle grounds in the spring.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the cherry blossom season, be sure to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best views of the blossoms.
Additionally, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and significance.
3. Sega Republic
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Purchase an unlimited game and ride pass for the best value. Go during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
4. Non Hoi Park
Non Hoi Park is a beautiful natural park situated in Toyohashi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy walking or cycling through the park’s lush greenery and admiring the scenic pond. The park also has a large playground for children, as well as picnic areas and a barbeque space.
There are ample opportunities for bird watching, and visitors can see a variety of birds such as kingfishers, ducks, swans, and herons.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking cherry blossom trees during the spring season. The park also has a stunning fountain show during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in the park. It’s recommended to visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
If you are traveling with children, bring a ball or frisbee to play in the open spaces.
5. Toyohashi Park
A public park located in Toyohashi city, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the immaculate gardens that are dotted with various seasonal blooms. Check out the park’s impressive collection of cherry blossom trees, which put on a spectacular display in spring.
Take a relaxing boat ride across the park’s large pond or enjoy a picnic under the shade of the park’s tall trees.
Don’t miss: The Toyohashi City Zoo, which is located within the park and houses an impressive collection of both exotic and domestic animals, including red pandas and Japanese macaques.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the cherry blossom season for a truly magical and unforgettable experience. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and get the best photo opportunities.
If you’re planning on visiting the zoo, be sure to check their website for the feeding times of various animals and plan your visit accordingly.
6. Gamagori Orange Park
Gamagori Orange Park is a botanical garden dedicated to oranges located in Gamagori, Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through groves of different types of orange trees and enjoy the fragrance of the blossoms. The park has over 4500 trees and more than 100 varieties of oranges from around the world.
There’s also an orange-themed gift shop and a citrus buffet restaurant.
Don’t miss: Guests can experience picking their own oranges during the harvest season (December to February) and enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit during the weekday, it is quieter compared to weekends. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, ‘mikagura-dango’ at the restaurant.
7. Irago Seaside Aquarium
Irago Seaside Aquarium is an oceanarium located in the city of Toyohashi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can get up close with a variety of marine life exhibits, including sharks, dolphins, seals, and jellyfish. The aquarium also features a petting pool where guests can touch and interact with some of the smaller creatures.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights is the dolphin show, where trained dolphins put on an amazing performance that is both educational and entertaining.
Visitors can also watch the seals being fed and enjoy the large jellyfish display.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
8. Gamagori Classic Car Museum
The Gamagori Classic Car Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. It displays a vast collection of classic cars and motorbikes.
What to see or do: Admire the beautifully restored vintage vehicles, including American muscle cars, European sports cars, and Japanese domestic cars. The museum also features an impressive collection of classic motorbikes from Harley Davidsons to Honda.
Don’t miss: Guests can enjoy a ride on one of the vintage vehicles with an experienced driver, which runs on weekends and holidays.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum on weekdays or in the morning to avoid crowds.
On a sunny day, it’s best to wear sunscreen and bring a hat, as the parking lot has little to no shade.
Take some time to speak with the knowledgeable staff who are happy to share their passion and knowledge about cars.
9. Gamagori Tatsunami Beach
Gamagori Tatsunami Beach is a picturesque and bustling beach located in the city of Toyohashi, Japan.
What to see or do: At Tatsunami Beach, visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear and gentle waters, sunbathing on the golden sand, or trying out some of the many water sports on offer.
The beach is also equipped with showers, changing facilities, and a range of restaurants and cafes.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Tatsunami Beach is the “Floating Beach Bar,” a unique attraction that features a floating platform with a bar and seating area.
Visitors can relax here with a drink or two while enjoying the stunning views of the ocean.
Insider travel tips: – Tatsunami Beach can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.
10. Arai Sekisho (Checkpoint)
Arai Sekisho is an Edo period checkpoint that once marked the border between two provinces in Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the well-preserved checkpoint and learn about its history through the many exhibits available. Admire the impressive architecture, which includes a gate, guardhouse, and watchtower.
Don’t miss: Make sure to watch the short video that explains the checkpoint’s historical significance and role in Japan’s feudal past.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the annual Arai Summer Festival, held in early August, which features traditional dance performances and fireworks displays.
It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the area can be quite sprawling, and there are often outdoor performances and events to attend.
11. Kalmia Garden
A beautiful garden located in Toyohashi, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths and marvel at the colorful flowers and vibrant greenery. There are also a variety of water features, including ponds and waterfalls, to admire.
Don’t miss: The many different species of flowering rhododendrons and azaleas that bloom throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring or early summer to see the rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom. The garden can get crowded during peak seasons, so arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of the garden.
12. Toyohashi City Museum of Art and History
The Toyohashi City Museum of Art and History is a public museum that showcases the history and art of Toyohashi City, located in Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses a variety of exhibitions, including displays of archaeological artifacts, historical documents, and traditional crafts from the region. Visitors can also view artwork from Japanese and international artists, as well as temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the life-sized recreation of a traditional Japanese town, complete with buildings, shops, and interactive exhibits.
The museum also features a garden courtyard with sculptures, a reflection pond, and a peaceful place to relax.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month. Check the website for details on current and upcoming exhibitions.
Visitors should also take time to explore the nearby historic district of Akamagaseki, which dates back to the Edo period.
13. Okazaki Castle
Historic Japanese castle located in Okazaki city, Aichi prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle tower, turrets, gates, and walls. The castle museum displays various artifacts and weapons from the castle’s history.
The castle grounds offer walking paths, cherry blossoms in spring, and fall foliage in autumn.
Don’t miss: The castle tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and the Okazaki Castle Park.
Insider travel tips: The castle is easily accessible by train and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during the spring. Consider visiting during the off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
The nearby Okazaki Park hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the famous Mikawa Oden Festival.
14. Yoshiwara Shrine
A historic Shinto shrine located in Toyohashi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the impressive red torii gate at the entrance and walk around the beautiful grounds of the shrine.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights is a huge stone lantern that is believed to be one of the largest of its kind in Japan.
Also, don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful cherry blossoms in the springtime.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the shrine is located on a hill and involves some uphill walking. It is also recommended to visit during the weekday to avoid crowds.
15. Mikawa Bay
Mikawa Bay is a scenic inlet located on the Pacific coast of Japan, near the city of Toyohashi.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating. The bay is also known for its beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue waters.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the nearby Mikawa Marine Park, which features an aquarium and a variety of marine life exhibits.
The park also offers dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as a 3D movie theater.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, plan your visit for a weekday or arrive early on weekends. If you’re interested in seafood, be sure to try some of the local specialties, including shrimp, octopus, and eel.
Additionally, there are many hot springs in the area, so be sure to take a relaxing soak after a day at the beach.