Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Samurai Trail

Why Choose This Hiking Experience?

• Create your own Samurai Trail adventure: Tailor your walk by choosing which historical post towns to visit—Magome, Tsumago, Ochiai, Nakatsugawa, and more.
• Comfort meets history: Walk scenic trails and explore Edo-period villages, while enjoying smooth travel via chartered car on steep or distant segments.
• Immersive cultural and natural journey: Stroll along cobbled paths, beneath ancient cedars, past working waterwheels, and seasonal blooms, all brought to life by an expert guide.

• Available language: English
• Activity type: Private guided hiking + car transfer 
• Duration: 5 h 30 min
• Meeting point: JR Nakatsugawa Station (pickup details provided upon booking)

A Personalized Journey Through the Kiso Valley

The custom Nakasendō hike offers you the chance to walk at your own pace, with your own private guide, along one of Japan’s most scenic and historically rich routes. Between the beautifully preserved post towns of Magome and Tsumago, your guide will adapt the experience to your interests—whether it’s in-depth cultural storytelling, photography opportunities, or a relaxed forest stroll. Your experience is entirely tailor-made, making this hike perfect for travelers seeking a blend of nature, heritage, and personalization.

You’ll also have the option to enjoy a bento lunch featuring local specialties in a serene natural setting, or spend more time engaging with local residents and artisans.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, this curated experience allows you to immerse yourself in the rhythms of Edo-period Japan, with the added comfort of expert guidance.

Discover the Legacy of the Nakasendō Trail

The Nakasendō (“Central Mountain Route”) was one of the five major travel arteries of the Edo period, connecting Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo) through Japan’s mountainous interior. Unlike the better-known coastal Tōkaidō route, the Nakasendō passed through forested valleys, alpine passes, and remote villages—offering a vital inland connection for merchants, samurai, pilgrims, and feudal lords.

Along its path were 69 official post towns, where travelers could rest, eat, and lodge safely. Today, towns like Magome and Tsumago have been meticulously restored, preserving their cobblestone streets, wooden inns, and tranquil, timeless atmosphere. Walking the Nakasendō today is not only a scenic journey through Japan’s natural landscapes, but also a living encounter with the country’s feudal heritage.

How It Works

1. Capacity: Private group of 2 to 6 people
2. Pick-up: Meet at JR Nakatsugawa Station at 9:00 AM (adjustable for your schedule)
3. Chartered car ride: Travel comfortably to your chosen trailhead
4. Guided walk: Enjoy a 5.5-hour hike customized to your tempo
5. Flexible itinerary: Highlight towns and sights you want to visit
6. Final drop-off: Return to JR Nakatsugawa Station around 14:30 

Additional Information

• Hotel pick-up: Optional (at extra cost)
• What’s Included:
  • Customized itinerary
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Transportation during the visit
• What’s Not Included:
  • Transportation to/from trail area
  • Meals and drinks
  • Entrance fees for optional stops (if any)
• Cancellation Policy:
  • Up to 7 days before: Full refund
  • Between 7 days and 5:00 PM the day before: 50% cancellation fee
  • After 5:00 PM the day before or on the day: Non-refundable

※ Things to know before booking:

Due to high demand, especially during peak seasons, spaces are limited. We reserve the right to offer you an alternative date or time if your requested schedule is unavailable. Please check your email regularly, as we may contact you with suggestions. If we cannot accommodate your request, we will issue a full refund.

Make sure to bring shoes and clothes for the outdoor and appropriate for the season.