Overlooking the waters of Mikawa Bay, Gamagōri is a vibrant onsen resort town along the Pacific Coast. It boasts one of the largest collections of fish in Japan at its waterfront aquarium and spectacular coastal landscapes in Mikawa-wan Quasi-National Park.

Things to do

Spend a day at one of the hot spring resorts dotting the coastline, some of which feature open-air baths where you can soak up coastal views. Walk between baths in a traditional yukata, then dine on kaiseki Japanese cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients at the on-site restaurants.

Travelling with kids? Head to Laguna Ten Bosch, a lively shopping and entertainment complex with its own theme park. Sample locally-sourced seafood at the Festival Market, get your thrills on the roller coasters of Lagunasia, then enjoy retail therapy at the international boutiques.

Don’t miss the family-friendly Gamagori City Takeshima Aquarium, home to more than 450 different marine species. Get up close to smalltooth sand tiger sharks and a giant Japanese spider crab, then watch one of the playful sea lions shows.

Explore the coastal landscapes of the Mikawa-wan Quasi-National Park, which encompasses parts of the Atsumi and Chita peninsulas. Admire the whitewashed architecture of the Cape Irago Lighthouse and marvel at the dramatic sea cliffs, then swim in the protected waters of Mikawa Bay.

Getting around

Gamagori is around 1.5 hours by train from Chubu Centrair International Airport and just over an hour from the centre of Nagoya. Tokyo is around three hours by train away, while buses access most of Gamagori’s attractions.