Definition:
A hike along the Nakasendo Trail, connecting the historic post towns of Magome and Tsumago.
Who is it for?
Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful or invigorating hike.
What can you experience?
Walk through ancient cedar forests, enjoy stunning views, and follow the paths once traveled by samurai, exploring Japan’s historic landmarks.
What will you gain?
Feel refreshed, reconnected, and inspired by the harmony of nature and tradition.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At Nagoya Station
- We will take a train to Nakatsugawa Station at 9 AM, then take a bus to Magome. If you are coming from Nagano or Matsumoto, please meet at Nakatsugawa Station at 9:30 AM.
Magome-juku (Trekking Start Point)
Magome-juku is a historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail, once a vital stop for travelers, merchants, and samurai journeying between Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Edo period. Known for its beautifully preserved streets, waterwheels, and traditional wooden inns, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Scenic Streets – Walk through stone-paved paths lined with traditional buildings, tea houses, and souvenir shops.
・Panoramic Views – Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Kiso Valley and surrounding mountains.
・Cultural Heritage – Learn about the town’s history and its role in Japan’s feudal travel network.
・Local Delicacies – Try regional specialties like gohei mochi (grilled rice cakes) and chestnut sweets.
・Trekking Gateway – Begin your scenic hike towards Tsumago-juku, following the footsteps of Edo-period travelers.
Lunch at Juri – A Taste of History
Savor a meal at Juri, a beloved eatery in Magome-juku, known for its time-honored chestnut rice dish. This local specialty has nourished travelers along the Nakasendo Trail for centuries.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Juri (樹梨) – A traditional eatery in Magome-juku, preserving local flavors.
・Kurikomameshi – A chestnut rice dish praised by Edo-period poet Jippensha Ikku.
・Historic Setting – Experience a meal once enjoyed by travelers along the Nakasendo Trail.
Ichiroku Toge Tateba Teahouse – A Historic Rest Stop
Nestled along the Nakasendo Trail, this thatched-roof teahouse has welcomed travelers for generations. It offers a glimpse into the Edo-period journey and a moment of peace amid the mountains.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Thatched-roof Teahouse – A charming Edo-period stop along the Nakasendo Trail.
・Traveler’s Retreat – A place where merchants and weary travelers once paused for tea.
・Serene Atmosphere – Enjoy a warm cup of tea while taking in tranquil mountain views.
Otoko-daki & Onna-daki Waterfalls
Along the historic Nakasendo Trail, these twin waterfalls stand as a symbol of balance and harmony. Their contrasting flows embody the forces of nature and have long inspired travelers—including the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Twin Waterfalls – "Otoko-daki" (Male) flows powerfully, while "Onna-daki" (Female) cascades gracefully.
・Symbol of Harmony – Representing the balance of yin and yang in nature.
・Miyamoto Musashi’s Legacy – Said to have drawn inspiration here, reflecting his philosophy of duality in combat and life.
Tsumago-juku – A Timeless Post Town
Tsumago-juku is one of the best-preserved post towns on the historic Nakasendo Trail, a vital route connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during the samurai era. It remains a living museum, where visitors can experience the Edo-period atmosphere with traditional wooden buildings, car-free streets, and local hospitality.
Highlights & Experiences:
・Step into History – Walk the same path as feudal lords, merchants, and samurai who once traveled the Nakasendo.
・Perfectly Preserved – Unlike many other historic towns, Tsumago has strictly maintained its Edo-period appearance, free from modern distractions.
・Scenic Beauty – Surrounded by lush mountains, Tsumago offers stunning views, especially in spring and autumn.
・Local Delicacies – Try specialties like gohei mochi (grilled rice skewers with miso sauce) and soba noodles made from fresh mountain water.
・Unique Souvenirs – Find handcrafted washi paper, traditional wooden crafts, and locally made sweets that reflect the region’s heritage.
Nagiso Station
After an immersive day on the Nakasendo Trail, board the 15:30 bus to Nagiso Station, the nearest JR station. Enjoy a final glimpse of the scenic countryside before your journey back. From there, enjoy a smooth connection back to Nagoya or Nagano, making your return journey effortless.
On the train to Nagoya Station
We will take a train to Nagoya Station. The guide will get off at an earlier stop, so the tour will conclude on the train. Your train will arrive in Nagoya at 17:07.
Ending Point
On the train to Nagoya Station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
・English-speaking guide Fees
・Break at a traditional teahouse (Ichiroku Toge Tateba Teahouse)
・Assistance with public transportation directions
・Lunch costs (for both the guide and yourself)
・Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks, etc.)
・Transportation costs (for both the guide and yourself)
・Activity costs
・Travel insurance
・Difficulty Level: Moderate (Approx. 8 km hike with some uphill and downhill paths)
・What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water bottle, and cash for snacks or souvenirs
・Weather Policy: The tour operates in most weather conditions but may be adjusted for safety in case of extreme weather
・Additional Notes: This tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature, historical sites, and light hiking
・You can easily enjoy the tour as a day trip or a short stopover from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
・Please make sure to have travel insurance, as the guide cannot be held responsible for any damages or losses.
・Bring enough cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.
・My main guiding areas are Aichi, Gifu, and Mie, but other locations can be arranged upon request.
Welcome to Nagoyeah! (Nagoya, but way more fun!)
Hi, I'm Ryota, a nationally certified guide interpreter. I was born and raised in Nagoya, studied business administration in the U.S., and spent 5 years in IT sales before working in vending machine logistics for 10 years. Through my international collaborations, I deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture.
I’m thrilled that you’re considering a visit to Nagoya—a city where tradition and innovation come together, and warm-hearted locals are eager to share their stories with you.
To make your journey truly unforgettable, I offer personalized guides that present Nagoya not just as a collection of isolated "points" (individual tourist spots) but as a connected "surface"—a seamless journey weaving together related locations into a rich, cohesive story.
My goal is to create experiences where you can deeply immerse yourself in the culture, touch its essence, and uncover the stories behind each destination—leaving you with lasting inspiration that stays with you long after your journey.
Let’s make it a Nagoyeah experience together! Are you ready to explore Nagoya’s unique blend of old and new? Let’s get started!
$420/ per group