• Ena - The journey begins at an art museum dedicated to one of Japan’s renowned landscape artists and his iconic works along the historic Nakasendo route.

Here, visitors will uncover the cultural significance of this trail and explore the intricate work and techniques involved in creating ukiyoe (woodblock) paintings. There is even an opportunity to craft a simple print.

After gaining insight into the Nakasendo trail’s importance, the tour proceeds to the next destination, showcasing one of the best-preserved post towns along the Samurai Road.

• Tsumago Post Office - Tsumago-juku was the forty-second of the sixty-nine post towns on the Nakasendo trail. This charming town features inns, houses, and shops, many of which date back to the Edo era. Visitors can imagine the life of a samurai or traveler as the guide leads them through this historic village.

Before embarking on the hike, participants receive a hiking certificate, which can be stamped in both towns to commemorate hiking this section of the Nakasendo trail. The certificate, crafted from local wood, serves as a unique souvenir.

• Nakasendo Tsumagojuku - The hike continues along the Nakasendo trail, one of five ancient roads connecting Edo (Tokyo) with other regions in Japan. The trail was most significant during the Edo era.

Today, much of the original Nakasendo has been lost to time or transformed into modern highways and railway lines. However, the section of the trail being hiked remains largely unchanged from the samurai era, with segments featuring original cobblestone.

• Nakasendo Magome-juku - At the trek’s conclusion, visitors arrive at the picturesque post town of Magome. Nestled on a slope, this town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and features a main street lined with traditional wooden buildings. Waterways run alongside the street, with fast-flowing water powering several waterwheels, giving the town a fairytale-like ambiance.

The post town boasts numerous shops offering popular local crafts and snacks, such as oyaki dumplings, gohei-mochi rice cakes, and ice cream. It’s recommended to explore the wood crafts made from local trees, known for their fragrance and convenient size for travel. The guide is available to assist with capturing photos that will impress friends and family.

The guide will then accompany the group back to the tour bus towards Nagoya, or if preferred, the team can arrange a drop-off elsewhere in the Kiso Valley.

• Transportation during the tour
• English speaking guide
• Entry fees at all tour stops
• Sake tasting (non-alcoholic options available)
• Buffet Lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant

• Accommodation
• Lunch

Experience the enduring charm of rural Japan on a private guided tour along the historic Nakasendo Trail, a path once frequented by samurai and merchants. Starting from Nagoya, this full-day excursion blends cultural exploration, breathtaking scenery, and eco-friendly travel.

The journey begins with a visit to a museum dedicated to Utagawa Hiroshige, where visitors can discover the traditional woodblock printing methods used to depict each post town along the trail. Next, explore the well-preserved post town of Tsumago-juku before setting off on an 8 km guided hike through lush forests, picturesque farmland, and stunning waterfalls. Along the way, enjoy serene moments in nature and engage with local customs at a historic teahouse. Conclude the adventure in the delightful hillside town of Magome-juku, where regional delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs await.

This tour provides a genuine and engaging way to connect with Japan’s cultural legacy at a leisurely and meaningful pace.

• The remaining time is allocated to transport
• The lunch venue may vary depending on the restaurant availability

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.