Arimatsu & Atsuta Autumn Exploration in Nagoya (Oct-Dec 2024): History, Art & Tie-Dyeing

Explore the History and Art of Arimatsu & Atsuta This Fall 🍂

Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Arimatsu and Atsuta, two enchanting districts near Nagoya, with the Meitetsu "Arimatsu and Atsuta Town Walking Campaign" running from October 1st to December 15th. This year’s campaign offers an even more immersive experience, with expanded workshop options and exciting local festivals coinciding with your visit.

Arimatsu, a town brimming with Edo-era charm, is renowned for its traditional tie-dyeing ( Arimatsu Narumi Shibori ) techniques. Atsuta, home to the venerable Atsuta Shrine, offers a glimpse into ancient Japanese history and spirituality. This campaign lets you explore both with specially priced tickets combining travel and unique experiences.

Three Ticket Options to Suit Your Interests:

1. Arimatsu and Atsuta Stroll Ticket: Perfect for those who want to explore both areas at their own pace.

  • What you get:

    • Round-trip Meitetsu train ticket to either Arimatsu or Jingu-mae Station (with stopover options). Unlimited rides between Jingu-mae and Arimatsu if your starting point falls within those nine stations.
    • Discount coupons for 27 gourmet restaurants and shops in Arimatsu.
    • Discount coupons for 26 gourmet restaurants and shops in Atsuta.
    • Free weekend access to the "Townscape Guided Tour" led by the Arimatsu Anaibito no Kai, offering insights into the history of Arimatsu Narumi Shibori and the town itself.
  • Validity: October 1st – December 15th

  • Price: From Meitetsu Nagoya Station: Adults ¥2,300, From Meitetsu Gifu/Inuyama Stations: Adults ¥3,300 (Child fares available)

2. Arimatsu Shibori Experience Ticket: Immerse yourself in the art of Arimatsu Narumi Shibori.

  • What you get:

    • All the benefits of the Stroll Ticket (train ticket, coupons, guided tour).
    • A hands-on Arimatsu Narumi Shibori experience creating your own tenugui (hand towel) or gauze handkerchief at one of three designated workshops. Reservations required at least 1 hour in advance at the Arimatsu Narumi Shibori Kaikan. Experience times: 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
  • Validity: October 1st – December 15th

  • Price: From Meitetsu Nagoya Station: Adults ¥4,300, From Meitetsu Gifu/Inuyama Stations: Adults ¥5,300 (Child fares available)

3. Arimatsu Workshop Enjoyment Ticket: Delve deeper into the craft with exclusive workshop tours and unique tie-dyeing experiences.

  • What you get:

    • Round-trip Meitetsu train ticket (same conditions as above).
    • Access to workshops and factories, plus a special tie-dyeing activity (stole dyeing, thread removal, or a gift item) at one of six designated shops. Reservations are required by the day before your visit at the Arimatsu Narumi Shibori Kaikan. Purchase your ticket at the station after making the reservation. Experience time: 1:30 p.m.
    • Discount coupons for 26 gourmet restaurants and shops in Atsuta.
  • Validity: October 1st – December 15th

  • Price: From Meitetsu Nagoya Station: Adults ¥9,300, From Meitetsu Gifu/Inuyama Stations: Adults ¥10,300 (Child fares available)

Ticket Purchase Locations:

Meitetsu stations with ticket staff (excluding Yatomi and Akaike Stations), Meitetsu Nagoya Station Service Center, and Meitetsu Kanko Service sales locations (Kariya, Nagoya Fushimi, Ichinomiya, Meieki Underground, Meitetsu Gifu Station Travel Center, Kanayama Station Travel Center).

Festive Events During the Campaign Period:

Arimatsu:

  • Arimatsu Tenmangu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival (Float Festival): Witness three magnificent floats, designated as Nagoya City’s Intangible Folk Cultural Property, parade through the streets. October 6th (9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.) at Arimatsu Tokaido. (Float operation cancelled in case of rain.)
  • Arimatsu Michi Akari: Experience the magic of Arimatsu’s historical streets illuminated by handcrafted bamboo lanterns. October 26th & 27th (5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.) at Arimatsu Tokaido Nishimachi and Gionji Temple.
  • Arimatsu Market: Explore local crafts and culture at this vibrant market held around Arimatsu Tenmangu Shrine. October 27th (10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., partially until 8:00 p.m.)

Atsuta:

  • Atsuta Scenery – Now and Then -: Travel back in time with VR goggles to experience Edo-era Atsuta. Get a special ukiyo-e magnet, take fun photos, and participate in quizzes for souvenirs! October 27th at Kanayama Station South Exit Plaza, and November 1st, 16th & 17th at Atsuta nagAya (Meitetsu Jingu Station West Exit).
  • Atsuta Tsuitachi Market (First Day of the Month Market): Enjoy local delicacies, including the famous "Atsuta Miya Mochi" (rice cakes), available only on these days. November 1st at Akihayama Entsuji Temple and December 1st at Atsuta Shrine.
  • Warm! Atsuta Charm Discovery Market: Explore nine venues in Atsuta Ward via a free shuttle bus, enjoy a guided Horikawa Canal cruise, and witness the illuminated autumn leaves of Shirotori Garden. November 17th.

🛏️ See hotels near the event

Location: Around Meitetsu Arimatsu and Jingu-mae Stations

Fee: Varies depending on the ticket.

Contact: Meitetsu Customer Center (052-582-5151) – Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Weekends & Holidays: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Website: https://www.meitetsu.co.jp/plan/campaign/detail/1283034_8034.html

Additional Information: Nagoya City Tourism and Cultural Exchange Bureau, Tourism Promotion Division (052-972-2406)

What is Arimatsu famous for?

Arimatsu is renowned for its traditional shibori tie-dyeing technique, a craft that has been meticulously preserved and passed down through generations for over 400 years. Originating during the Edo period, Arimatsu-Narumi shibori is celebrated for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, achieved through a labor-intensive process of folding, twisting, and binding fabric before dyeing. This ancient craft not only exemplifies the town’s artistic heritage but also reflects a profound cultural significance that has captivated both domestic and international audiences.

Visitors to Arimatsu can explore this rich legacy through workshops and exhibitions, offering hands-on experiences that demonstrate the precision and creativity required to produce these stunning textiles. The town itself is a charming enclave of historical buildings and narrow streets, providing a picturesque backdrop that transports visitors back in time as they immerse themselves in the art of shibori. Each piece of tie-dyed fabric tells its own story, making Arimatsu an essential destination for anyone interested in Japan’s traditional arts and crafts.

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