Summer

For many people, nothing says summer like a trip to the beach, and though Aichi isn’t necessarily famed for its beaches, there are plenty of lovely places where you and the family can play in the sea and catch a few rays. Shinmaiko Marine Park The nearest beach to Nagoya, Shinmaiko Marine Park, is perhaps the most conveniently located for city dwellers. While it is an artificial beach, it is no less lovely for it. There is a sizable barbecue area that you can rent out, and charcoal can be supplied at a small additional cost. However, if the barbecue isn’t your thing, there are food stands selling refreshments. For those who don’t like the feeling of sand between the toes, there is a large grassy area on which to lounge, and for the more energetic of you, you can take advantage of the extensive beach volleyball courts. Getting there: Get off at Shinmaiko Station on the Meitetsu Tokoname Line and walk 10 minutes across Fine Bridge. (map) Contact: 0562-56-3980 Ono Beach One never feels more affinity with society’s upper echelons than when lounging on the beach. Wherever we are, we never feel far from George Clooney on Lake Como…