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Nakasendo Trail

Weaving through the mountains of central Japan, the historic Nakasendō Trail connected Kyōto and Edo-period Tōkyō. This trail stretches 534 km and the shukuba post towns along the way provided accommodation for weary travellers walking along this route dating back to the seventh century. Some of the best-preserved post towns offer a real glimpse into the past, with wooden buildings lining stoned paths and the sound of watermills evoking a connection to those who have walked there centuries ago. Amongst the 69 post towns along this ancient trail, Magome, Tsumago and Narai stand out thanks to the conservation efforts made by the local government and people who have lived here for generations. With modern power lines and advertising boards being outlawed, the locals here have preserved the traditional townscape and unique history of this region.

 

Highlights of The Nakasendō Trail

 

While portions of the trail have been converted to roads and railways, there are still some well-preserved sections that wind through bamboo forests, fields and along rivers and streams; our tours include hiking on these parts of the trail with accommodation nights in small family-run minshuku and ryokan. The natural beauty of this region has long inspired many writers and artists and we hope that our guests are moved by the unique culture, architecture, cuisine and local people as well.

  • Visit the bio-diverse national parks of Kamikōchi and Oku-Hida.
  • Kamikōchi, in the western region of Nagano prefecture, is located in the Azusa River Valley and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Walking in this area is a fantastic experience especially during the autumn foliage season.
  • Oku-Hida also offers stunning views of the Northern Japan Alps and is particularly renowned for their rotenburo (露天風呂/outdoor baths).

 Self guided tours

Discover the country at your own pace with our detailed maps and walking instructions. Everything else - from rail tickets to accommodations - are all organised by us, so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying excellent local home-cooked meals and world class hospitality.

Self-Guided
Nakasendo self-guided walking 3 days

Village-to-village hiking of the highlights of the Nakasendō, recommended for novices and families. Enjoy flexible hiking with 3 hikes of 1 to 6 hours.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
3 Days
From USD 1,260
Self-Guided
Nakasendo self-guided walking 4 days

This longer, linear hike of the Nakasendō Trail reveals more hidden highlights. Stay in traditional Japanese inns in Tsumago and the onsen town of Kiso-Fukushima, and visit historic Narai as you enjoy hikes of 1 to 6 hours.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
4 Days
From USD 1,555
Self-Guided
Nakasendo self-guided walking 5 days

Our best-loved Nakasendō Trail package is a 5-day hike perfect for hiking enthusiasts and those who wish to experience more of the Nakasendō. Enjoy hikes of 1 to 6 hours and visits to the most beautiful post towns.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
5 Days
From USD 1,815
Self-Guided
Nakasendo and Kamikochi walking 6 days

Combine all the best of the Kiso Valley sections of the Nakasendō Trail, with upgraded onsen ryokan accommodation, and walks in Kamikōchi in the Oku-Hida mountains, before finishing in historic Takayama.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
6 Days
From USD 2,245
Self-Guided
Nakasendo and Kamikochi walking 10 days

A perfect tour for the walking enthusiast. Enjoy 9 hikes over 10 days by complementing our Nakasendō and Kamikōchi tour with hiking in the Karuizawa and Nikkō areas.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
10 Days
From USD 4,010
Self-Guided
Nakasendo Minoji self-guided walking 4 days

Enjoy hikes of 2-7 hours over four days as you traverse some of the more remote post towns of the Nakasendō's Mino Road, before continuing to Magome, Tsumago, and Narai in the Kiso Valley. Hike through beautifully preserved Edo Period post towns and learn about the history of the Nakasendō and those who travelled on it through the monuments and remnants along the trail.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
4 Days
From USD 1,510
 Guided tours

Sign up as individual travellers and leave as lifelong friends on an Oku Japan small-group guided tour. With a maximum of 13 people in any group, our tours ensure you get the full attention of your local guide who themselves share a passion for Japan. Whether it’s traditions, food, society or history, learn the ins and outs together with your fellow travellers and the assistance of our fully-licensed, bilingual guides.

Guided
Nakasendo and the Kiso Valley

A short small-group guided walking tour with three hikes of 3-6 hours of village-to-village walking on the Nakasendō Trail

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
8 Days
From USD 2,940
Guided
Winter Nakasendo Trail

A small-group guided winter tour to the Nakasendō trail. Walk or snowshoe for 1-3 hours over five days

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
8 Days
From USD 2,935
Guided
Nakasendo Trail

From Tōkyō, visit the 'road through the mountains' once travelled by feudal lords. Stay in traditional country inns, enjoying exquisite regional cuisine and soaking in natural hot springs before ending in Kyōto.

Trip level:
Level
Duration:
12 Days
From USD 4,785