Among the cities in the Chita Peninsula, Handa City is one of the most populous, alongside Tokai City.
Easily accessible from Chubu Centrair International Airport and Tokoname, it’s just a 35-minute train ride, making it a convenient sightseeing hub in Aichi Prefecture.
Handa is also known as the headquarters of Mizkan, a global food company, and has long been a center of traditional brewing culture. (We’ll dive into that later!)
In this guide, we’ll introduce the city’s history, key attractions, and access information—perfect for first-time visitors.
Handa’s History and Unique Features
The Chita Peninsula is known for its rich natural surroundings and mild climate.
Handa City, in particular, has long been blessed with high-quality spring and well water, which made it ideal for rice cultivation.
With rice and water in abundance, brewing industries like sake, vinegar, and soy sauce flourished.
It was from this tradition that Mizkan, now a global brand, was born.
Thanks to its coastal location, Handa also thrived as a port town.
Products like vinegar and soy sauce were shipped to Edo (modern-day Tokyo) via Handa Canal and gained national popularity.
Even today, you’ll find historic buildings and traditional storehouses throughout the city—perfect for a leisurely walking tour.
How to Get to Handa City
The easiest way to reach Handa is by using Meitetsu (Nagoya Railroad).
From Chubu Centrair International Airport, take the Meitetsu line directly from the airport station.
- About 35 minutes by limited express
- About 50 minutes by semi-express
To reach the city’s main sightseeing areas, get off at:
- Sumiyoshicho Station (for the Handa Red Brick Building)
- Chita Handa Station (for Mizkan Museum, Handa Canal, etc.)
From Chita Handa Station, it’s also about 35 minutes to Nagoya Station, making Handa perfect for day trips.
Handa’s Main Attractions Are Around Two Stations
Most tourist spots in Handa are within walking distance of Sumiyoshicho Station and Chita Handa Station.
If you’re short on time, we recommend focusing on Chita Handa Station, where many attractions are conveniently clustered.
Sumiyoshicho Area: Handa Red Brick Building
Near Sumiyoshicho Station, you’ll find the Handa Red Brick Building, a renovated Meiji-era beer factory.
Inside, you can enjoy exhibits, events, a café, and a gift shop—all in a beautiful retro setting.
It’s a photogenic and locally loved spot, where history meets modern design.
Chita Handa Area: Handa’s Sightseeing Hub
Chita Handa Station is the city’s sightseeing hotspot.
Within walking distance, you’ll find several must-see attractions:
Mizkan Museum｜Explore the World of Vinegar
An interactive museum where you can learn about the history of Mizkan and the vinegar-making process.
Includes English guides and fun exhibits for all ages—a hit with families!
Kunizakari Sake Culture Museum｜Taste Local Sake
Operated by Nakano Sake Brewery, this museum showcases tools and history of sake brewing.
You can enjoy tasting and shopping after your visit.
Former Nakano Hanroku Residence｜A Serene Historical House
Once home to a member of the Mizkan founding family, this elegant house features a traditional Japanese garden and beautiful architecture.
It is sometimes open to the public in spring and autumn.
Handa Canal｜Perfect for a Scenic Stroll
A nostalgic canal area lined with traditional storehouses and historical buildings.
Seasonal events like wind chime displays and evening illuminations add charm throughout the year.
Stylish Cafés in Traditional Storehouses
Enjoy a relaxing break in renovated storehouse cafés, offering local sweets and drinks in a calm, Japanese atmosphere.
These cafés blend tradition and modern comfort, making them ideal rest spots.
Conclusion｜Handa: The Gateway to the Chita Peninsula’s Culture and Flavors
Handa City serves as a gateway to the culture and history of the Chita Peninsula.
With great access, walkable attractions, and a rich food culture, it’s the perfect destination for travelers.
Whether you’re stopping by from Nagoya or Centrair Airport, be sure to explore the storehouse town of Handa.
You might just discover a new side of Japan waiting to be enjoyed.
