Samurai-Era Japan on Foot | Hike the Historic Nakasendo Trail from Magome to Tsumago
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
8.5
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
31,000
JPY/person
Size
Size
1-7
Person
Highlights
  • Hike a scenic section of the Nakasendo Trail, a historic Edo-period route once traveled by samurai and merchants
  • Stroll through the beautifully preserved post towns of Magome and Tsumago, where traditional wooden buildings bring history to life
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and rural landscapes on a tranquil trek through Japan’s countryside
  • Gain insight into Edo-period life and policies, and how they shaped modern Japan, from your expert guide
  • Savor local delicacies like handmade soba noodles and gohei-mochi, a grilled rice cake with sweet miso glaze

Embark on a scenic and historical journey through the Nakasendo Trail, a 400-year-old route that once connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. On this day-trip from Nagoya, you’ll explore Magome and Tsumago, two of the best-preserved post towns in Japan, and walk a picturesque stretch of the trail between them.

Begin in Magome, a charming Edo-era town featuring traditional wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and panoramic mountain views. After exploring the historic surroundings, enjoy free time to sample local specialties like handmade soba or gohei-mochi.

From Magome, board a bus to the nearby waterfall, a scenic spot that has refreshed travelers for centuries. From here, you can choose to trek a 3.3-kilometer portion of the Nakasendo Trail (about 1 hour) through forested paths and rustic scenery before arriving in Tsumago.
Other options are also available: you may skip the hike and travel by bus directly to Tsumago for extended time exploring Tsumago, or choose to hike the entire route from Magome to Tsumago (about 9 km / 2.5 hours).

Wandering its atmospheric streets, you’ll encounter Edo-period inns, merchant houses, and samurai-era architecture. Your guide will share insights into the trail’s role in Japan’s history of travel, trade, and governance.

With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading the way, this tour offers an immersive experience of Japan’s history, culture, and rural landscapes—a perfect contrast to the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka.

Itinerary

8:40 AM – Meet at Nagoya Station & Travel to Nakatsugawa

Meet your guide at the Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center, then take the limited express train to Nakatsugawa Station.

9:50 AM – Arrive at Nakatsugawa Station & Transfer to Magome

Take a local bus to Magome-juku, a picturesque post town.

10:15 AM – Explore Magome & Enjoy Free Time for Lunch

Stroll through the cobblestone streets and wooden buildings of Magome, a beautifully preserved Edo-era post town.

Enjoy free time for lunch (not included in the tour fee).

1:30 PM – Depart Magome by Bus

Board the bus and head toward the nearby waterfall.

1:40 PM – Visit the Waterfall and Hike the Nakasendo Trail (Approx. 3.3 km / 1 hour)

Take in the scenic view of the falls, a refreshing landmark along the Nakasendo.

Walk a picturesque stretch of the trail, passing forested paths and rustic scenery before reaching Tsumago.

*other 2 options
1 – Skip the hike and travel by bus directly to Tsumago for extended time exploring the town.
2 – Hike the entire route from Magome to Tsumago (about 9 km / 2.5 hours).you may

2:45 PM – Arrive at Tsumago & Explore the Historic Town

Visit Tsumago-juku, a perfectly preserved Edo-period post town.
See samurai-era buildings, inns, and merchant houses.
Learn about Edo-period governance and its lasting impact on Japan.

3:25 PM – Travel Back to Nagoya

Take a bus or taxi to Nagiso Station.
Board the limited express Wide View Shinano train back to Nagoya.

5:10 PM – Tour Ends at Nagoya Station

Meeting Point

Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

What's Included

What’s Included

  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Public transportation fares between attractions
  • Admission fees
  • Travel Insurance

What’s Not Included

  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Food and drinks
  • Guide gratuities (optional)
Additional Info

Accessibility & Activity Level

This tour involves moderate hiking; comfortable walking shoes are required.

Tour Operation & Language

  • This tour is conducted in English.
    A Mandarin, French, Spanish, German, or Korean-speaking guide may be available. Please contact the supplier in advance to check availability.

Dietary Requirements

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. If no dietary information is provided, we will assume you have no restrictions. Advance notice is required so we can arrange a suitable restaurant for lunch.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light snack or energy bar for the hike
  • Water bottle (Bottled drinks are available for purchase in Magome before starting the hike.)

Booking & Cancellation Policy

Booking Deadline

  • Advance booking is required
  • Cut-off time: 9 days before departure

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Date Cancellation Fee
No-show or cancellation after tour departure 100% of the tour price
On the tour date 50% of the tour price
1 day prior to the tour date 40% of the tour price
2 to 7 days prior to the tour date 30% of the tour price
8 to 10 days prior to the tour date 20% of the tour price
11 or more days prior to the tour date Free
The locations
to visit in this tour

Nagoya City
Starting From
31,000 JPY/person