30 minutes from Nagoya ! A guide to accommodations, access, and sightseeing in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture , the town of good fortune

• Table of Contents
• What kind of place is Tokoname City?
• 5 recommended accommodations in Tokoname City with excellent access from the airport!
• Flexible transportation options! How to get to Tokoname
• 5 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tokoname City
• Traditional culture that can only be experienced in Tokoname

What kind of place is Tokoname City?

About Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture

Tokoname City is located on the west coast of the central Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture. Tokoname Station, located in the center of Tokoname, is conveniently located just 10 minutes by car or two stops by train from Chubu Centrair International Airport, the city's gateway to the skies, and 30 minutes by express train from Nagoya. Tokoname City is a charming city with a port town atmosphere and a unique culture.

Meitetsu Tokoname Station is two stations away from Chubu Centrair International Airport and a 30-minute express train ride from Nagoya Station.

Tokoname City is known as the birthplace of Tokoname ware, one of Japan's six ancient kilns, and has been a thriving pottery manufacturing center since ancient times. In recent years, with the opening of Aichi Sky Expo (Aichi Prefecture International Exhibition Center), the city has seen an increase in tourists from both Japan and abroad.

Tokoname City is home to an international airport, yet it also boasts streets that retain a Showa-era atmosphere and is dotted with spots perfect for social media. It is a Japanese tourist destination with good old traditions, and transportation to each tourist attraction is easy.

The charm of Tokoname ware, where tradition and innovation in pottery art live on

When talking about Tokoname City, it is essential to mention Tokoname ware. Tokoname ware is a historic pottery that has been produced since the end of the Heian period, and is characterized by a simple yet powerful atmosphere. Many of the pottery is rooted in daily life, such as teapots and vases, and is also excellent in functional beauty.

Today, the tradition is still passed down by many potters and craftsmen, and new works incorporating modern designs and colors are being produced every day. As we will introduce later in this article, some tourist spots also have facilities where you can experience pottery making, allowing you to not only see but also touch the art. Being able to experience traditional Japanese art so close to Chubu Centrair International Airport is a big attraction.

A town of unique beckoning cats

Did you know that Tokoname City is also famous as the "town of beckoning cats"? It is the city with the highest production of beckoning cats in Japan. There are beckoning cats of various sizes placed all over the city, but the most famous is the giant beckoning cat "Tokonyan," which is 3.8 meters tall and 6.3 meters wide .

The giant beckoning cat "Tokonyan" has a strong presence and is a popular photo spot.

Tokonyan is located on the Pottery Walk, which retains the vestiges of the pottery industry that flourished in the early Showa period, and is highly popular for its photogenic appearance on social media. Along the Pottery Walk, you can also enjoy other unique sights, such as brick chimneys, kilns, and clay pipe slopes.

In fact, the culture of beckoning cats has developed in conjunction with the techniques of Tokoname ware, and the beckoning cats, carefully crafted one by one by local artisans, are popular souvenirs and are loved as symbols of good fortune for visitors. If you come to Tokoname, be sure to buy some beckoning cat-related souvenirs.

5 recommended accommodations in Tokoname City with excellent access from the airport!

Tokoname City has a wide range of accommodations that are convenient for both tourists and business travelers. There are 4,300 rooms in the city, and they offer a relaxing stay.

Four Points by Sheraton Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport

Located within walking distance of Centrair's Access Plaza, this hotel is the Four Points by Sheraton Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport, managed by the global hotel brand Marriott International.

The entire hotel is filled with the scent of Four Points' original citrus bourbon, making your stay special from the moment you arrive. Conveniently located just a six-minute walk from Centrair's Access Plaza, the hotel also offers a free shuttle bus, so even those with large luggage can use it with peace of mind.

The room has a comfortable, spacious bed and a great view of the ocean (Premium King).

Four Points by Sheraton Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport, which opened in November 2018, is a hotel that combines modern design with comfort. There are six types of rooms: Standard Twin, Standard King, Premium Twin, Premium King, Junior Suite, and Four Points Suite. The Junior Suite is located on a corner and is a special space limited to nine rooms, offering views from two directions. All rooms are equipped with Simmons Four Points original beds and deep bathtubs for relaxation.

The guest room design incorporates motifs from the traditional Japanese craft of Tokoname ware, as well as industrial elements that express the strength and functional beauty of Aichi Prefecture's major industries, such as automobiles and aircraft. On certain days, some rooms even offer views of fireworks.

All 319 rooms are spacious, measuring over 25 square meters, and come equipped with functional facilities such as side tables with USB ports and work desks, making them suitable for a wide range of needs, from business to tourism.

The hotel primarily targets independent travelers who enjoy traveling freely, and many guests are also staying for business trips or workcations. In the common areas, you can play billiards, relax at the bar, or work in the workspace. The fitness room, exclusively for guests, is available 24 hours a day and is equipped with the latest equipment and a comfortable environment.

The hotel is staffed in English and Chinese, and the second-floor lobby is filled with playful interior design inspired by the local area of Tokoname and the airport, allowing you to experience the charm of the area before setting off on your sightseeing adventure.

The dining area is designed with attention to detail, including decorations that resemble ship lights and the texture of brick, making mealtimes enjoyable.

Book Four Points by Sheraton Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport

Toyoko Inn Chubu Centrair International Airport

Toyoko Inn Chubu Centrair International Airport I/II is conveniently located just a 7-minute walk from the Chubu Centrair International Airport terminal and a 10-minute walk from the nearby event venue (Aichi Sky Expo), making it a convenient hotel for business trips and travel.

Picture courtesy of Toyoko Inn

With a total of 2,274 guest rooms, it is Toyoko Inn's largest hotel. Building 1 is for individual travelers, while Building 2 is for overseas and domestic group travelers. The hotel also has multilingual staff. The multi-story parking lot between Buildings 1 and 2 can accommodate approximately 1,000 cars, and is currently running a campaign offering 1,000 yen for 240 hours (conditions apply to the campaign).

Picture courtesy of Toyoko Inn

There are a variety of guest rooms available, including triple rooms that can accommodate up to three people, deluxe twin rooms that can accommodate up to four adults, and dedicated rooms where you can stay with your pet (13 rooms, with a dog run outside on the No. 2 side of the building). All rooms have a consistent layout, ensuring a smooth stay from check-in to check-out. Wi-Fi, humidifiers, and other amenities are provided for a comfortable stay. You can also enjoy a buffet-style breakfast in the spacious breakfast area, with a panoramic view of the ocean and airplanes.

A free shuttle bus runs between the hotel and the airport in the morning and evening, and no reservation is required.

Additionally, both buildings 1 and 2 are equipped with convenience stores, coin laundry machines, vending machines, business counters, massage chairs and other amenities, making your stay comfortable.

There are 638 free coin lockers exclusively for guests located in Building 1. You can leave your luggage in a locker before heading to the event.

On the first floor of Building 2, classic cars such as Morgan and Harley are on display, and it is a popular spot as guests staying in Building 1 are also welcome to take photos there.

Book Toyoko Inn Chubu Centrair International Airport

Chubu Centrair International Airport Hotel

The Chubu Centrair International Airport Hotel boasts direct access to Chubu Centrair International Airport, making it a convenient choice. All 376 guest rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay.

It is only 100m from the ticket gate of Meitetsu Chubu Centrair International Airport Station, and just a 2-minute walk from the airport check-in counter, so you can relax and enjoy your stay without the stress of traveling.

Picture courtesy of Centrair Hotel

Completed in July 2025, these family rooms exude a warm Japanese atmosphere. They can accommodate up to four guests. Each room features unique Kumiko craftsmanship, showcasing the artisan's skill, creating a memorable memory of your trip. Enjoy a relaxing time while experiencing traditional Japanese beauty. The toilet and bathroom are separate, making them safe for families with small children.

Picture courtesy of Centrair Hotel

The Airport View Plan, which lets you enjoy a special seat in the sky, is very popular with aviation enthusiasts and families. From rooms with a panoramic view of the runway, you can watch planes take off and land up close, and enjoy the different views at different times of the day.

Picture courtesy of Sanrio Co., Ltd.

There are also concept rooms to help you create memorable memories of your trip, and the Hello Kitty room in particular is popular with international travelers due to its cute interior and unique atmosphere.

Chubu Centrair International Airport Hotel is ideally located directly connected to the airport, and offers amenities that are perfect for families with children, making it suitable for a wide range of guests. There are also a variety of room types available, from functional rooms ideal for business travelers to spacious rooms recommended for group trips, so you can choose the room that best suits your travel style and the people you're traveling with.

Picture courtesy of Centrair Hotel

Guests can relax in the calming atmosphere of the lounge, where they can enjoy freshly ground coffee. The restaurant has also introduced a new vegan menu to cater to a variety of dietary needs. Guests can also enjoy local flavors such as Nagoya's famous kishimen noodles and chicken wings, as well as pickles made with fresh, locally grown ingredients.

Book a room at Chubu Centrair International Airport Hotel

Spring Sunny Hotel Nagoya Tokoname Station

This is the Spring Sunny Hotel Nagoya Tokoname Ekimae, located just outside the west exit of Tokoname Station, two stations away from the airport. It is also two train stops and about five minutes away from Chubu Centrair International Airport Station, making it a popular choice for airport users.

All rooms are a generous 24m², with plenty of space for even large suitcases. All rooms also have bathrooms with bathtubs, allowing you to relax and unwind after a long journey. Most rooms are twin rooms, but double rooms are also available. There are no single rooms, but this makes up for the fact that you can enjoy a more spacious stay.

The hotel provides information in multiple languages, including Chinese, Taiwanese Mandarin, English, and Japanese, ensuring a hassle-free stay.

Picture courtesy of Spring Sunny Hotel Nagoya Tokoname Station

For those seeking a special experience, we recommend the Japanese-style rooms on the 14th and 15th floors. The Japanese-style rooms are 24 square meters in size and feature tatami-floored corridors, allowing you to take off your shoes and relax the moment you step off the elevator. They also offer great views, making them popular with families and guests with children.

The hotel's rooftop is open from sunrise to sunset, allowing you to enjoy the view from the tallest building around the station. If the season and timing are right, you can even get a panoramic view of the fireworks display, which is especially recommended.

There is a large beckoning cat in the lobby, and the decorations change with the seasons. We recommend this hotel as a comfortable base for your trip.

Picture courtesy of Spring Sunny Hotel Nagoya Tokoname Station

One of the highlights of this hotel is the artificial hot spring "Makiyu" located on the first basement floor. This large public bath is open from 5am, making it a convenient place to enjoy at the beginning or end of your trip. After your bath, you can enjoy free ice cream in the rest area or relax while reading manga.

Breakfast is a buffet, where you can enjoy a wide variety of homemade dishes made with ingredients procured that day.

Book Spring Sunny Hotel Nagoya Tokoname Station

Hills house second

"I want to stay as if I'm at home while traveling." For those who feel that way, we recommend "Hills house second." This guesthouse is also close to Meitetsu Tokoname Station, just a four-minute walk away. It's a secluded guesthouse with four rooms, carefully renovated from a traditional Japanese house that's over 150 years old.

The surrounding area is lined with rows of traditional Japanese houses, and the slopes and roads made of clay pipes dating back to the Meiji period are also a highlight. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town and experience the culture.

The walls, cupboards, and tables of the building are lined with Tokoname ware, and many guests end up buying pieces they actually used during their stay as souvenirs.The hotel also has deep ties with local ceramic artists, and can introduce you to artists upon request, which is another attraction.

This inn, which combines pottery culture with a homey atmosphere, is perfect for those interested in crafts and those who want to experience local life.Long-term stays are also available, with some guests staying for more than three months.

Each of the South, North, East, and Japanese rooms (approximately 10-25m²) has a different layout and design, and can accommodate 2-3 guests per room, for a total of 11 guests.

The interior, which combines tatami mats and flooring, has a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere, making it suitable for those looking to stay for an extended period of time.

For breakfast, a Japanese and Western plate featuring vegetables grown by the owner is served, and has received rave reviews from travelers.

It is located close to the aforementioned "Tokonyan."

Book Hills House Second

Flexible transportation options! How to get to Tokoname

Tokoname City is very convenient to access, with a variety of transportation options available, so choose the one that best suits your travel style.

[From Chubu Centrair International Airport]

It's only about a 10-minute drive away, and just two stops from Tokoname Station on the Nagoya Railroad Airport Line, making it an ideal location for travelers who fly, as it's easy to get to before or after your flight.

Travel time: Approximately 5 minutes

Fare: Adults 330 yen

[From Nagoya Station]

If you take a direct train from the Nagoya Railroad Meitetsu Line, you can arrive in about 30 to 40 minutes. It would be easy to plan a visit in conjunction with sightseeing in Nagoya.

Boarding station: Meitetsu Nagoya Station (approximately a 7-minute walk from JR Nagoya Station)

Line: Meitetsu Tokoname Line (direct to Meitetsu Airport Line)

Travel time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (varies depending on the train type)

Fare: 750 yen for adults

Points to note:

→ Limited express, rapid express, express, semi-express, and local trains: stop at Tokoname Station.

→ μSky (all special cars, reserved seats): * Does not stop at Tokoname Station depending on the time of day .

[From Tokyo and Osaka]

The most common route to visit is to first take the Shinkansen to Nagoya and then transfer to the Meitetsu Line (Nagoya Railroad).

If you are considering travel from the airport, there is also a convenient free bus service called "TOKONAME SHUTTLE." It makes it easy to travel from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Yakimono Sanpomichi and hotels, and allows you to sightsee empty-handed, so please give it a try. For more information, please see this article.

By renting a car, you can also visit nearby tourist spots and plan your trip freely. One of the attractions of Tokoname City is that travelers can choose their means of transportation according to their purpose.

5 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tokoname City

"Ceramics Walk"

Located a five-minute walk from Tokoname Station, the "Yakimono Sanpo-michi" (Ceramics Walking Path) is a spot where you can stroll along the narrow streets lined with kilns and workshops while enjoying the quaint townscape. In addition to being able to see a wide range of pottery, from traditional to modern pieces, there are also plenty of photo spots, such as the famous giant climbing kiln and clay pipe slope.

Tokoname Pottery Footpath

479-0836 Sakaemachi, Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture

The Tokoname Pottery Footpath refers to the area where the ceramic industry was at its most prosperous in the early Showa period. Chimneys, kilns, and factories still dot the area, quietly conveying the state of those days. Today, many artists still have studios here. The area has wonderful galleries, cafes, pottery shops, and miscellaneous goods stores. The starting point for the walk is the Tokoname City Ceramic Hall, which is a 5-minute walk from Tokoname Station. Enjoy strolling through the maze-like alleyways with the pamphlet you got here in hand. There are also sightseeing guided tours that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Tokoname. Please take advantage of these excursions.

"INAX Live Museum"

Next on our list is the INAX Live Museum. Located about a 10-minute drive from Chubu Centrair International Airport, this complex offers hands-on experiences in pottery and tile making. The exhibition area, with its vibrant tile walls, is especially Instagrammable. This is a recommended spot for families, with something for everyone, from children to adults.

INAX MUSEUMS

479-8586 1-130 Okueicho, Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture

INAX MUSEUMS is a museum of clay and pottery located in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, the town of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan. ​We offer dynamic activities that allow visitors to enjoy, learn, and play using all five senses. It consists of 6 museums: ``Kiln Plaza'', ``Tile Museum Tile Museum' ', ``Architectural Terracotta Museum Museum' ', ``Clay Works'', ``Tiling Workshop LIXIL Ceramics Lab''. We are developing activities that convey culture, beauty, and fun.

"Rinku Beach"

For those who want to relax by the sea, we recommend Rinku Beach. It's only a 15-minute walk from Rinku Tokoname Station, and the beautiful coastline is sure to leave you mesmerized as the sun sets. There are plenty of barbecue facilities and cafes, and it's a popular spot bustling with beachgoers in the summer.

Rinku Beach Tokoname official website

"AEON Mall Tokoname"

If you want to enjoy shopping and gourmet food, you can't miss AEON Mall Tokoname. Just a one-minute walk from Rinku Tokoname Station, there are about 180 shops lined up, offering a wide range of products from fashion to local gourmet food. There is also a theme park and hot spring facilities on the premises, so you can spend the whole day having fun.

Although it is a shopping mall, it also has a wide selection of local gourmet food and souvenirs, so it is recommended to stop by before or after your flight. Please also refer to the article introducing AEON Mall Tokoname .

AEON Mall Tokoname

2-20-3 Rinku-cho, Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture 479-0882

AEON Mall Tokoname is an entertainment mall featuring a wide variety of specialty stores and amusement facilities. We look forward to welcoming you!

"Sawada Sake Brewery" & "Morita Aji no Yakata"

Our final recommendation is Sawada Sake Brewery and Morita Aji no Yakata , where you can experience history and tradition. Located about a 10-minute drive from Tokoname Station, you can tour the brewery and learn about the history of soy sauce production. There is also a tasting corner, and we recommend buying some local sake and traditional seasonings that are unique to Tokoname as souvenirs.

Sawada Shuzo (Sake Brewery)

479-0818 4-10 Kobacho, Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture

Sawada Shuzo is a historic sake brewery founded in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture in 1848, at the end of the Edo period. Tokoname City is also known for its Tokoname ware. The brewery's representative brand is ""Hakurou."" The name of the brewery reflects the ""carefully polished white color of rice'' alongside ""a wish for the health and longevity of its customers'' and ""pursuing an expertise in sake brewing.'' The Chita Peninsula, where Tokoname is located, is a region with a thriving culture of brewing products such as seafood, agricultural and livestock products, as well as sake, miso, vinegar, and tamari soy sauce. To support the local rich food culture, Sawada Shuzo continues to produce rich, flavorful sake using local rice, spring water, and traditional wooden tools for everything from ordinary sake to daiginjo. The brewery believes that old yet traditional methods are the best way to bring out the deliciousness of rice and avoid any unpleasant tastes. Since the company's founding, the brewing water that is indispensable for sake brewing has been sourced from a spring up on a hill two kilometers away from the brewery. The water has been brought to a well in the sake brewery through a private tap. As a local sake brewery originating from the fermented food culture of the Chita Peninsula, they believe in creating sake that complements food while being in harmony with nature. Be sure to take a tour of the sake brewery. You can enjoy tastings and experience how sake is made through great care and attention to ingredients, manufacturing methods, and tools. To make Tokoname's local ""Hakurou"" sake more delicious and enjoyable, the brewery has created four types of sake vessels in collaboration with potters. On the tour, you can enjoy pairing sake with different flavors and sake vessels that bring out the individuality of each fermented rice beverage.

Traditional culture that can only be experienced in Tokoname

What did you think?

Tokoname is not just a place to enjoy sightseeing, but a city where visitors can actually "experience." The charming townscape can also be considered a "cultural heritage" created by Tokoname's climate and people's hands. By visiting, you can experience the spirit of craftsmanship and traditional Japanese culture, an experience that is hard to find in other tourist destinations.

Tokoname City is easily accessible from the airport, so be sure to stop by if you're traveling to Aichi or Centrair.

You can also check other tourist information about Tokoname here.