How long does the journey take?

The train journey duration between Nagoya and Nakatsugawa depends on the type of train chosen: With the Limited Express Shinano, the journey takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes. With JR Chuo Line local or rapid trains, the journey is longer, generally between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes. These durations do not include transfer time to the bus for Magome nor the bus journey itself.

Is the JR Pass valid on the Limited Express Shinano?

Yes, the national Japan Rail Pass is valid for travel aboard the Limited Express Shinano on the JR Chuo Line between Nagoya and Nakatsugawa. It fully covers both the basic fare and the Limited Express surcharge. If you hold a JR Pass, this is the most advantageous option for this journey.

Ticket - Train - Nagoya - Nakatsugawa

Q: How to get to Nakatsugawa from Nagoya?

To get to Nakatsugawa from Nagoya, we recommend using JR Chuo Line trains. You have two main options: Limited Express Shinano: This is the fastest and most comfortable option. Shinano trains depart from Nagoya Station and serve Nakatsugawa directly. JR Chuo Line Local or Rapid Trains: These trains are more economical but make more stops, extending the journey time. They also depart from Nagoya Station. We recommend checking schedules in advance, as train frequency may vary. Trains in Japan are renowned for their punctuality.

Q: What is the train fare for the Magome-Tsumago hike?

The train fare to Nakatsugawa, the starting point for the Magome-Tsumago hike, varies depending on the type of train: For a journey aboard the Limited Express Shinano, expect to pay approximately 2,500 to 3,000 yen (basic fare + Limited Express surcharge). For a journey on a JR Chuo Line local or rapid train, the cost is approximately 1,340 yen (basic fare only). From Nakatsugawa Station, a local bus is necessary to reach Magome. The cost of this bus journey is approximately 700 yen.

Adults (+12yo)

Children* (< 12yo)

*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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The train journey between Nagoya and Nakatsugawa marks the entrance to a region rich in history and landscapes. The main Chuo Line, used by the Limited Express Shinano, is the gateway to the Kiso Valley and the famous post towns of the Nakasendo, such as Magome and Tsumago. Nakatsugawa is particularly renowned for its chestnut confectioneries, "kurikinton," an autumn specialty found in many shops throughout the city, sometimes even at the station.

Frequently asked questions

To get to Nakatsugawa from Nagoya, we recommend using JR Chuo Line trains. You have two main options:

Limited Express Shinano: This is the fastest and most comfortable option. Shinano trains depart from Nagoya Station and serve Nakatsugawa directly.
JR Chuo Line Local or Rapid Trains: These trains are more economical but make more stops, extending the journey time. They also depart from Nagoya Station.

We recommend checking schedules in advance, as train frequency may vary. Trains in Japan are renowned for their punctuality.

The train fare to Nakatsugawa, the starting point for the Magome-Tsumago hike, varies depending on the type of train:

For a journey aboard the Limited Express Shinano, expect to pay approximately 2,500 to 3,000 yen (basic fare + Limited Express surcharge).
For a journey on a JR Chuo Line local or rapid train, the cost is approximately 1,340 yen (basic fare only).

From Nakatsugawa Station, a local bus is necessary to reach Magome. The cost of this bus journey is approximately 700 yen.