Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail- 1 Day Tour from Nagoya
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku on this small group tour with round-trip transportation from Nagoya or Nakatsugawa.
Your experienced 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.
**A non-hiking option of this tour is available for individuals who are not able to hike or prefer a more leisurely pace. Please contact us for more information about joining this tour as a non-hiker.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
The remaining time will be allocated for the transport
Non-Hiking Tour Option: After the tour of Tsumago-juku, your guide will continue on the trail with those who have selected to hike the trail. Non-hikers will be given an hour of free time in Tsumago to enjoy the shops, take pictures, and explore at their own pace. You will then meet back up with your driver to continue on to Magome-juku. At Magome, you will have time to enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, sample regional specialties, or shop for handcrafted souvenirs at your own pace before meeting up with your guide and the hikers at 16:30 for your return trip to Nagoya.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Round-trip Transportation from Nagoya/Nakatsugawa
English speaking guide
Lunch
Accommodation
Transportation from your accommodation
What To Expect
Nakasendo Tsumagojuku
After a quick stop at a roadside rest stop to stretch our legs, we will arrive at Tsumago-juku post town. Here your guide will explain the history and significance of the area and the Nakasendo trail before setting off on our hike.
Nakasendo Tsumagojuku
We will then set off on our hike down the Nakasendo trail—one of five ancient roads connecting the de facto capital of Edo (Tokyo) with other regions in Japan. The trail was most prominent during the Edo era. Today, most of the original Nakasendo has been lost to time or converted into modern highways and railway lines. However, the section of the trail we will hike remains relatively unchanged from the time of the samurai. You will even see segments of the trail with original cobblestone. The hike will also take you by two waterfalls—the perfect place to catch your breath, feel the cool mist on your face, and stop for lunch. Recharged, we will continue our hike past a lone teahouse run by a local volunteer. You’re welcome to stop here for a sip of tea or exchange stories with other travelers.
Options
Start from Nagoya
Pick-up at Nagoya Station
Starting point:
Nagoya Station, 1-chōme-1-4 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, Japan
Start from Nakatsugawa
Pick-up at Nakatsugawa Station
Starting point:
Nakatsugawa Station, 2 Chome-1 Otamachi, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0033, Japan
Reviews
69 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing , perfect mix of hiking & history with a great guide & personal driver!
Marcell M,
Oct 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00One of the best if not the best tour I've taken in Japan. The tour is designed for small groups - in our case it was only myself, another solo traveler and our guide Kim. We were driven from Nagoya station by Umemetsu-san who also did a great job and was incredibly friendly! Even during the car ride Kim had great information prepared on some of the relevant history for the nakasendo trail and other spots we drove by. Once we started the the hike it was clear she knew not only where to go - but also the local shop owners , additional activities ( like getting a stamped certificate of completing the nakasendo trail ) and history of almost every building in almost every town we passed by. Once you complete the hike - you get around an hour of free time ( or with the guide if you want) in the town to do some sightseeing , shopping or lunching. On the way back since our group was so small , they even asked if I wanted to be dropped off at the hotel which is definately not included in the package but a gesture of kindness since it was raining and we completed a tiring hike. Thank you for the great experience Kim , Umemetsu-san & Snow Monkey Resorts!
Fantastic Hiking & History
Joseph B,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00It's a really good hike! There's elevation, make sure you bring good shoes and are rested and hydrated. Beautiful scenery! In addition, our guide Kimberly told us quite a bit about the area and the post towns we visited. Well worth the excursion. I'd do it again.
Nakasendo trail
Kate F,
Oct 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great mix of history and exertion. Kim and Emily were perfect guides and the driver was great too. Everyone was kind and answered all of my questions.
Battling the elements along the Nakasendo
David K,
Jun 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00Despite literally a torrential rainstorm taking place during the majority of the hike the Team at Snow Monkey tours kept our hardy band of trekkers motivated and interested as we made our way across the signature trail between Tsumago and Magome. A great experience well worth taking.
Exceeded my expectations
Charlie M,
Jun 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was tons of fun and exceeded my expectations. Our guide was so knowledgeable and patient. I would definitely do this again.
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Operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)