Nakasendo Highway Hike

Step Back in Time Along Japan’s Most Charming Historical Trail

For travelers eager to explore Japan beyond the cities and temples, the Nakasendo Trail offers a serene and culturally rich journey through the Kiso Valley. The most popular section of the trail runs between Magome and Tsumago, two beautifully preserved post towns in Nagano Prefecture, where travelers can walk the same path once used by samurai, merchants, and lords (daimyo) centuries ago.

Getting to Magome: Your Journey Begins

Start your day by catching a local bus from Nakatsugawa Station to Magome for around JPY 600. Nestled on a steep slope, Magome is a quaint village where cobbled streets, traditional wooden inns, and water wheels evoke the charm of Japan’s Edo Period.

Before setting off on your hike, take time to explore Magome’s old town, sample gohei mochi (skewered rice cakes), and enjoy the views of the Kiso Mountains.

The Trail: Magome to Tsumago

This stretch of the Nakasendo Highway is about 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles) and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours at a leisurely pace. The route is clearly marked in both English and Japanese, and most of the trail is well-maintained.

You’ll pass through:

• Cedar forests where the towering trees filter dappled sunlight onto mossy paths.

• Rice paddies and terraced farms where locals still work the land as they have for generations.

• Remote teahouses and waystations once used by traveling feudal lords and their armies.

• Small waterfalls, charming shrines, and wooden bridges over trickling streams.

The peaceful, rural surroundings create a deeply immersive experience in Japanese countryside culture.

Tsumago: A Town Frozen in Time

Once you reach Tsumago, you’ll be greeted by one of Japan’s best-preserved post towns. Cars are restricted, and power lines are hidden, creating an authentic atmosphere. Wander the streets, visit the old Honjin (samurai inn), and relax with a warm bowl of soba noodles after your hike.

Tsumago is committed to preserving its Edo-era ambiance, making it a popular stop for history buffs and photographers alike.

Travel Tips for Walking the Nakasendo

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. The trail includes a few steep sections and uneven terrain.

• Weather: Bring a light rain jacket and water, especially in the summer months when it can get humid.

• Luggage: Many inns offer luggage-forwarding services so you can walk hands-free.

• Rest stops: Public restrooms and vending machines are available at both ends and mid-way through the trail.

When to Visit

The trail is beautiful year-round, but it’s especially enchanting in:

• Spring (April–May) – Cherry blossoms and mild weather.

• Autumn (October–November) – Fiery foliage and crisp mountain air.

Avoid winter months if you’re not prepared for snow or icy paths.

Extend Your Journey

Consider spending a night in a traditional ryokan in Tsumago or Magome. With tatami mat rooms, kaiseki meals, and natural hot baths, these inns offer a unique opportunity to unwind like a traveler from centuries past.

Why Walk the Nakasendo Trail?

Unlike the urban speed of Tokyo or Kyoto, the Magome-Tsumago trail invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and experience an era when travel was about the journey, not just the destination. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or nature enthusiast, this short hike along the Nakasendo Trail is one of the most memorable experiences Japan has to offer.