Toyoyama: Aviation Museum and Kagura

Toyoyama brings together two distinct points of interest: aviation at the Aichi Museum of Flight and the Kagura tradition at Hachisho Shrine. The museum is dedicated to aircraft, the aviation industry in Aichi Prefecture, and virtual flight experiences; Kagura offers a glimpse into a long-standing local tradition. You can tailor your stay to your interests in technology, regional aviation history, or culture. During the 2026–2027 renovation period, the museum’s opening arrangements may vary. Check the latest visitor information before your trip.

Aviation at the Museum

The Aichi Museum of Flight is an aviation museum in Toyoyama. In the Aviation Hall boon, the exhibition features the 1963 Mitsubishi MU-2A No. 3 and a real helicopter. A T-4 trainer aircraft on display was modified for the Blue Impulse aerobatic team. Another aircraft on display was formerly used by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police for patrols, searching for missing people, and rescue operations. The T-4 and the former police aircraft represent different perspectives: the T-4 is associated with the Blue Impulse aerobatic team, while the other reflects its former police duties.

At the Orientation Theater, 3D footage explains the history and development of Aichi Prefecture’s aviation industry. Unlike the individual exhibits, the focus there is on the industry as a whole. This lets you balance your visit between specific aircraft and a broader historical subject.

Flight Simulator and Virtual Journey

The Aviation Hall boon has a hands-on learning area with a flight simulator. The Flying Box at the Aichi Museum of Flight offers something different: a large screen and moving seats create a virtual journey over the natural and urban landscapes around Aichi. The simulator focuses on hands-on learning, while the Flying Box offers a virtual landscape tour. This distinction can help you choose which experience best suits your interests. Check the simulator’s operating conditions and the museum’s latest visitor information before setting out.

Kagura Tradition at Hachisho Shrine

Toyoyama’s Kagura tradition is said to have begun in the late Edo period, based on the large drum at Hachisho Shrine, which dates from the Hōreki era. It has been passed down to the present day by a Kagura preservation society. At Hachisho Shrine, it is performed during rites to ward off misfortune, when passing through a ring, and in the Kagura performance on New Year’s Eve. The tradition is therefore associated with specific ritual occasions. If you would like to include a performance in your itinerary, check the date in advance.

Plan Your Journey

A route from JR Nagoya Station goes via Katsukawa Station, followed by an Aoi Kotsu bus to the Aichi Museum of Flight stop. Check the bus timetable before travelling. As the museum’s opening arrangements may vary during the 2026–2027 renovation period, plan your journey and visit according to the latest conditions.

Discover more destinations: Ichinomiya, Okazaki, Nishio, Gamagōri, Ama, Chita District, Toei, Nagoya

Return to the main travel overview: Aichi Prefecture.