Aichi

For any clients captivated by samurai culture—perhaps inspired by the Netflix series Shogun—Aichi Prefecture, the heart of the Owari Domain, is a must-visit. Nagoya, home to the Tokugawa Art Museum and Gardens, and Inuyama, with Japan’s oldest surviving wooden castle, offer an unparalleled window into the power, wealth, and cultural significance of the Tokugawa dynasty. It’s no coincidence that this region remains a manufacturing hub, giving rise to major global brands such as Toyota. The high quality timber from the Hida and Kiso areas was transported to Nagoya, enabling the construction of its castle and castle town. This fine wood led to the production of fine furniture, Buddhist implements, and even the development of techniques for crafting watches and Inuyama’s enchanting karakuri marionette dolls. Over time, these technological advancements paved the way for Japan’s dominance in precision manufacturing.Japan’s postwar economic rise may have seemed miraculous to some, but by visiting this domain and learning about the Owari Samurai, it all makes perfect sense. The spirit of the shogun lives on, and this is THE place to connect with it.