Adventure

Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku. Join us on this hike into the heartland of Japan.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 8 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide: English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Davide – Italy

We had an amazing time, we really enjoyed the hiking. Our guides’ explanation was precious and clear. We were a small group and this also helped us to enjoy this trip. We were a family of three with a 2yo baby, the trail is feasible also for kids even though we suggest using a baby backpack carrier. We strongly recommend you trying this authentic experience instead of just visiting Magome and Tsumago.

Sandra – Netherlands

We had a wonderful experience hiking a section of the Nakasendo trail with Mir as our guide and Iwasaki-san as our driver. The weather was perfect for hiking, and the trail offered stunning views — lush forest paths, small waterfalls, and peaceful mountain scenery. No black bears (thanks to all the bells!), but the calm and beauty of the trail more than made up for it. Our first stop, the historic post town of Tsumago, was a highlight — beautifully preserved and full of old-world charm. We ended our hike in Magome-juku, which, while more commercial, still felt rustic and atmospheric, with lovely views over the valley. Mir, our guide, was fantastic: knowledgeable, passionate, and full of fascinating historical insights. As a history student, he brought real depth to the experience. Iwasaki-san drove us smoothly and safely — always friendly and on time. A perfect blend of nature, culture and quiet adventure. Highly recommended!

Itinerary

Starting location:
Nagoya Station
Bus/coach
(2 hours)
Tsumago-juku
Guided tour (45 minutes)
Tsumago-juku
Guided tour, Hiking (3 hours)
Magome-juku (Nakasendo)
Guided tour, Free time (45 minutes)
Bus/coach
(1.5 hours)
Arrive back at:
Nagoya Station

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Visit the well-preserved townscape of Tsumago, enter into historical buildings
Hike the Nakasendo Trail for 8 km from Tsumago to Magome, take in the nice view
Have a snack or window shop in the quaint town of Magome
Enjoy the view out of the tour bus window on your way to and from the Nakasendo

Full description

Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku. This scenic section of the Nakasendo trail is brimming with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and remote mountain villages—which have remained relatively untouched by the modern world. Your experienced, English-speaking guide will lead you through the historic post town of Tsumago, along the 8 km Nakasendo trail, past waterfalls and wildlife, and into the stunning post town of Magome. Shop for handmade crafts and sample local fare. This tour will reward those who like to take the road less traveled and enjoy an adventurous experience into the heartland of Japan.

*As lunch options are limited, please purchase a bento box or other food items before the tour starts, and bring them with you. Time will be allotted to eat while on the trail.

Includes

English speaking guide
Transportation during the tour

Lunch
Accommodation
Transportation to/from Nagoya Station

Meeting point

The meetup point is at the base of the SILVER clock tower outside of the Shinkansen gates. If you are arriving via Shinkansen, the clock tower should be located directly in front of you as you exit the gate. If you are arriving via a JR line, please look for signs directing you towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit. For those coming from outside the station, you will most likely be entering through the Sakura-Dori gate (the side with the gold clock). In this case, please walk straight through the station towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit. You may wait nearby there until the tour begins at 10:00 A.M. Be sure to look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign. We highly recommend arriving early as Nagoya station can be quite crowded.

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Important information

Know before you go

There will be a significant amount of walking required (over 8 kilometers), so please wear appropriate shoes/boots. The trail is not especially difficult but includes areas where there may be mud or slippery rocks and has significant increases in elevation along the way. Please consider your physical condition before purchasing this tour.
The drive from Nagoya to the Nakasendo trail is around 2 hours, and while there will be a bathroom stop along the way, please come prepared to spend a few hours on our tour bus while we are heading to our destination.
In the summer, temperature highs are around 35 °C (95 °F) and above with extreme humidity. We recommend wearing something light and airy while minding sunburn and heatstroke. Please pay attention to the weather forecast and wear clothes appropriate to the outside air temperature to ensure you are not uncomfortable on the hike.
This tour is not suitable for small children due to the long walking distances involved.

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1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail