Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap. I fiddled with the lock for what felt like an eternity. Although some deep sections of the Nakasendo (namely the Torii Pass) have a reputation as being difficult, Id probably rate the trail (most of which, again, is paved) a 3 or 4 on a scale of 1-10, if 10 is the most difficult. The trail is relatively gentle and is well marked in English and Japanese. Unless you suffer from physical, mental or emotional conditions that make it difficult or impossible for you to travel independently, the Nakasendo is more than easy enough to navigate on your ownmost of it is literally paved. Are you ready to head out to the Nakasendo Trail? You are now at the start of the walk. These rest stations, spread out every 10 kilometers or so, provided accommodation and entertainment for merchants, samurai, wandering monks, and other . If you want to start at the western end, you can take a local train from Nagoya to Nakatsugawa, then transfer by bus or taxi to Magome and start walking. Here's our full transport, walking guide and map. From there, ride a bus or take a taxi to Magome. You will soon come to your first road crossing, where you cross rural route #7. Since this Nakasendo course contains wonderful nature and history all wrapped up in one and is relatively easy to do, I recommend it to all adventure and outdoor enthusiasts! When you first enter Tsumago, a large water wheel will greet you. We had the best experience and everything was thought of well in advance from accommodation to our Guide, Ukky. The walk is easy to moderate and well signposted in English. It is one of the most scenic sections of the walk. The trail is 540 km (340 mi) long, and back in the day, 69 post towns were dotted along the way for travelers to rest and recover. The travel notes and photographs were really helpful. Is Hiking the Nakasendo Worth It? - Japan Starts Here Spain's capital is a hub of cultural gems, vibrant nightlife and incredible restaurants for every budget. Trip level: Duration: 5 Days. The video shows the beautiful Kiso Valley and some of the cultural attractions of the Post towns that comprise the route of the Nakasendo Way. Make it Your Own! I recently re-discovered my love for 80s pop icon Taylor Dayne, and so while it might seem strange that I would rock out to chart-toppers like Tell It to My Heart and Love Will Lead You Back as the bus I was on careened through the Japanese Alps, they somehow proved the perfect soundtrack to my journey: They distracted me. The hike was just enough to challenge us but not overwhelm us. The mountain is also an active volcano, and Japan's second highest at that. Traildino grading EW, Easy walk, nature trail. My hand were shaky on account of the startle Id received, yes, but something else was amiss. How to Best Enjoy The Nakasendo Trail - SNOW MONKEY RESORTS As I walked toward the garden, however, and managed to see an orange koi swim by in spite of how many tourists I saw reflected in the pond, I had a revelation: The Japanese have perfectly reconciled their past with their present. Patricia Williams, Guildford (NSW) September 2019. From the 8th century onwards, this connection played an important role in knitting together the empire. Today you can find an array of traditional shops, the iconic stone path leading you though the town and incredible views of Mount Ena. It might be rooted in science, I guess, but it just sounds like one of those lines someone used at a party once and spread around the world. Jennifer Elizabeth Allan, Auckland (NZ) November 2019. Length 6.6 kmElevation gain 246 mRoute type Point To Point. Although you cant walk the entire historical Nakasendo from Kyoto to Tokyo, you can walk the portion from Magome (just northeast of Nagoya) to Kiso-Fukushima, which is to the west of Matsumoto, Nagano. Food is available en route at the Tateba-jaya Tea House, but you should consider buying snacks before you start hiking in Nakatsugawa, Magome or Tsumago. If necessary, call the Natatsugawa Tourist Information Center on +81-(0)573-62-2277 to check if there is snow on the trail, which is possible between October and April. Japan: Hiking the Nakasendo Trail | Boundless Journeys I hope youve found my Nakasendo trail guide illuminating, whether you plan to spend several days walking along it, or simply pop in for a morning or afternoon from a nearby Japanese city. I asked myself as I made my way over the crimson Nakabashi Bridge toward my Nakasendo Trail accommodation. Today is going to be a good day, I vowed, and began tearing into my chocolate-covered waffle. Just keep following the signs as you head out of town. The street is lined with traditional Japanese wooden houses, shops and ryokan (inns). Hiking, biking, Reykjavk-ing and more. Cobblestone Path of OchiaiThe cobblestone path of Ochiai is super neat and runs through a canopy of trees. You should get some change before boarding and you pay as you get off the bus. Get to know San Francisco and its people with this guide to the best free things to do in the city. But most every sign was darkened by the time I reached the doughnut shop, legions of partygoers reduced to only the stragglers with sensitive stomachs, who were vomiting in the streets or comforting their sick friends, the hustlers too hoarse to do anything but wave you in the direction of the clubs they were promoting. It follows the old postal route through the Nakasendo region, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo, and dates back to the Edo Period, which lasted from 1603-1868. Hope you have a great time on the Nakasendo. It is about 8 kilometers long and takes around 2-3 hours to walk at a leisurely pace. Enjoy this vlog Solo Hiking on the Nakasendo Trail! I loved the ryokans where the owners where so welcoming and provided amazing food that we had never seen or eaten before. This was one of the four security checkpoints during the Edo period and thus flourished as a political and economic centre in the Kiso Valley. The worlds most populous city felt empty, and so did I: Penny died seven years ago today. Nakasendo Trail | Oku Japan The old-town area and along the river are great spots for a stroll and to view the distinct Edo-style buildings. Hike one of Japan's ancient routes, the Nakasendo Way, the road through the central mountains. The result of this battle instated the Tokugawa shogunate that went on to lead a peaceful Japan for more than 200 years. You might want to stroll through the streets after dinner wearing a traditional yukata gown provided by your accommodation. My Nakasendo Trail guide, up to this point, has been more poetic than it has been practical, so I wanted to provide you some practical information, in case you want to walk the Nakasendo Way. This allows you to enjoy the rural atmosphere and relax back in Kyoto rested and refreshed. This was one of the five centrally controlled highways of the Edo Period (1603-1868) in a time when travelling was done on foot or by horse. Between Matsumoto and Takayama.. Though the weather was less than optimal, (ie. Nakasendo: Magome - Tsumago. Hire me to plan your Japan itinerary. The food was actually fabulous at all the places we stayed. Fuji (which also isnt very difficult, in my opinion) and also easier than hiking Koyasan or most of the Kumano Kodo. I made the reservation here! And, if you want to something a bit less touristy, consider the Kumano-kodo, down in southern Kansai. From walking notes, to bag service and accommodation, everything meets our expectations. Part of me wanted to roll my eyes. Nakasendo is an old road through the Japanese Alps that once connected Tokyo with Kyoto during the Edo Period (1603-1863). You will travel on the ancient paved paths known as ishidatami, pass hidden waterfalls, walk through stunning cedar and cypress forests and numerous wayside shrines. I like to start slow, devoting one day to get between Magome and Tsumago, and then another day between Tsumago and Nojiri or Kiso-Fukushima. Today is free for you to explore the town of Kiso-Fukushima. The employees are extremely friendly and share lots of great information! As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Print/PDF map. To experience the Nakasendo Trail as people did during the Edo Period, walking is the way to go. Experience this 4.1-mile point-to-point trail near Nakatsugawa Shi, Gifu. The name of the route literally means central () mountain () road (). And it's by design: Many minshuku guest houses, from Magome to Tsumago to Kiso-fukushima, are only bookable by phone, and often only in Japanese. I spend the final day hiking from Kiso-Fukushima to Narai, where I catch a train to Matsumoto and back to civilization. The town is so beautiful with its wooden structures and quiet road. Length 4.1 miElevation gain 807 ftRoute type Point to point. Looking to visit the heady Swiss Alps? One of my favorite booking platforms for travel stays, I highly recommend checking it out! From Magome-toge Pass its 5.5km down to Tsumago. For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my, Check Kyoto accommodation availability on, Need tips on where to stay? Just as you enter Tsumago, theres a bridge with a nice running river below it. To reach the other end, at Narai, ride a westbound JR Chuo Line train from Matsumoto. Situated in Nagano and near the Nakasendo Trail, Mount Ontake is an incredible sight to behold. We met people who were there to do the main three historic villages but are pleased that we chose to do the longer trail with RAW Travel. You will then walk over the Magome Pass (800m) and slowly descend through peaceful woodland. The Nakasendo trail is the old mountain route that connects Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period (1603-1867). Like what you're reading? Hike over ancient stone trails: authentic Japanese Ryokans, dinners and breakfasts: includes the Kiso Valley section: peaceful Japanese rural landscape: cedar forest and waterfalls. The Self-Guided Trip - Nakasendo Way - Raw Travel If you feel like exploring a little further, you may like to take a bus to Mt Ontake, one of Japans most sacred mountains. In the following route description, we will assume that you are traveling with a Japan Rail Pass. From the Tsumagobashi bus stop, board a bus to Nagiso (10 minutes, Y300). Then again, what was there to think about? This network of five routes was officially . Nakasendo self-guided walking 5 days. The road ahead paved with fallen yellow Gingko leaves, the vast forest dark enough to house tigers and lionsor at least scarecrows and tin menI felt like some kind of Twilight Zone Dorothy. Solo Hiking the Nakasendo Trail: Complete Guide and Itinerary I was on a three-hour pit stop in Kanazawa, with little agenda other than to be back at the train station in time to catch my Shinkansen. Hike the Historical Nakasendo Trail | Japan Cheapo Magome-juku in late afternoon James Faulkner Introduction About 2.2km after leaving Magome and climbing most of the way, you will arrive at Magome-toge Pass, which is the highpoint of the trail. According to said window it was still pitch dark outside, the bright lights of Shinjuku notwithstanding. Tsumago, in Nagano Prefecture, was the first town to be a designated Important Preservation District of Traditional Buildings, ensuring the preservation of the areas buildings and businesses. Chris Rowthorns 10 Favorite Kyoto Temples, Kyotos Best Sentos Japanese Public Baths, Internet In Japan For Tourists: Wifi, Pocket Wifi, SIM Cards, Rental Phones etc, Kyoto Shopping The Best Shops And Gifts, Sword Dancing in Kyoto at Samurai Kembu Theater, Solo Travel in Kyoto (and the Rest of Japan), Solo Female Travel in Kyoto (and the Rest of Japan), Chris Rowthorns Favorite Movies, TV Shows and Documentaries on Japan, Kyoto Long Stay Accommodation Monthly House Rentals And Apartment Rentals, Walking the Nakasendo from Kyoto Guide and Map, The Kitayama Area: Bujo-ji, Miyama, Kayabuki-no-Sato, How to Make Restaurant Reservations in Japan, Best Japanese Tea and Sweet Shops in Kyoto, Best Kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) in Kyoto, Best Shojin Ryori (Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), Best Shokudo (All Round Restaurants) in Kyoto, The Nearest Airport To Kyoto and Kyoto Airport Transport, Arriving at Kansai International Airport (KIX), Kansai International Airport (KIX) Airport Guide, Kansai International Airport (KIX) Hotels, How To Buy Shinkansen Bullet Train Tickets, How to Buy Japan Rail Tickets and Shinkansen Tickets Online, JR Trains: Green Cars Versus Ordinary Cars, Japan Ferry Pass 21 A Great Way to Explore Japan, How to Travel from Kyoto to Busan by Ferry, Kyoto Prepaid Cards: Icoca, Pasmo and Suica, Special Kyoto Bus, Train and Subway Passes, The Best Japanese Translation Apps For Japan Travel, 7 to 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Hiroshima, 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Takayama, 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa, Japan Itinerary For Traveling With Children, Japan Rail Pass: How To Make The Most Of It, Kyoto to Nagoya by shinkansen (about 45 minutes), Nagoya to Nakatsugawa by Shinano Express (about 48 minutes), Nakatsugawa to Magome by bus (about 25 minutes), Magome to Tsumago on foot (about 7.7km and 3 hours), Tsumago to Nagiso by bus (about 10 minutes), Nagiso to Nagoya by Shinano Express (about 48 minutes), Nagoya to Kyoto by shinkansen (about 45 minutes). The trail is very attractive above Magome, as it winds through small farms and rural houses. I cant believe youve got a heart of stone, I sighed, as I turned my back on the scene that just wasnt splendid enough for me. Nakasendo Trail | Regions | Oku Japan 6.6 km. The trail between Magome and Tsumago is a well-preserved section of the former Nakasendo trail. Words, images and design 2018-2023 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Here's what you can't miss in Madrid. Discover Edo Period Japan on the Nakasendo Trail - Lonely Planet As you'll know if you've tried searching on your own, this can be hard to book in advance. Explore world-class ancient ruins, bathe in island sunsets and enjoy incredible food here are the best things to do in Greece. Trip highlights. Maps, accommodation, meals and portage all worked well, making for a stress-free holiday. Walk and discover historic Kyoto, visiting Zen temples, strolling bamboo groves, and walking the atmospheric Gion district. Needless to say, doing the Nakasendo as a daytrip from Kyoto makes for a long and busy day. I will definitely be looking at booking my next holiday experience with RAW Travel. The forest walk joins the Kiso River as you descend into Nojiri. Find out more in our comprehensive destination guide its bursting with inspiration, travel essentials, practical information and more! Explore and relax in the cafes and shops of this well-preserved and atmospheric town. Travelers moving between Tokyo and Kyoto took several days to travel the Nakasendo which stretches about 526 kilometers. My name is Robert Schrader, and I'm a Japan travel expert with nearly a decade of experience under my belt. The Nakasendo Trail: 1 Day Hike from Magome to Tsumago All rights reserved. A few minutes after starting down from the pass, you will come to the Tateba-jaya Tea House and rest stop. Continuing on your way through the mountains you will come across the well-preserved post town called Okute before then travelling along the ridge tops and descending into Ena. Nakasendo Way - Walk Japan Guided Tours Nakasendo Highlights 6 days. Need help planning your next trip to Japan? Since Magome and Tsumago are quiet towns that close early, make sure to have your lodging plans squared away before heading out. Today really is going to be a good day. These both have many well-preserved and restored traditional buildings. Walking the Historic Nakasendo Samurai Trail - japan-guide.com If you miss these, your best bet is to catch the next local train south to Nakatsugawa, and then switch to another train there that will take you onward to Nagoya. Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail: 3 Days in the Kiso Valley In modern times, the Nakasendo has become a way for locals and international visitors alike to transport themselves to the Edo Period, enjoying a combination of the trails rewarding hikes ranging from less strenuous walks to more challenging terrain, interspersed with charming post towns preserved to this day. Mornington 3931 The name of this trail, also called Nakasendo Way, literally translates to "middle mountain way" or "path through the mountains." The portion of the Nakasendo Trail between Magome and Tsumago is well maintained and easy enough for even inexperienced hikers and for those who want to do it on their own. Our local RAW Travel representative will be able to recommend a local lunch spot (own expense) prior to your walk. Stay overnight in family-run ryokans and enjoy the wonderful well-preserved ancient villages of Nakatsugawa, Magome, Tsumago, Kiso Fukushima and Narai, and taste the local delights of the Kiso Valley and Gifu Prefecture. The Nakasendo Trail Really Rural Japan 444 likes, 1 comments - NatureAddicts (@thenatureaddicts) on Instagram: "Did you know that you can walk the same path where samurai walked? Stop by the Tourist Information building for recommendations on where to eat and to learn a little more about the town and Nakasendo Trail. It was beautiful in its way, of course, the clear waters of the Asuza River flowing a vibrant turquoise color, in spite of the gloom that billowed over them, but I felt shortchanged, and not just because the bus ticket had cost me a cool 4,500. In the forest you will be walking on a track that can be wet or uneven underfoot. The first ryokan was amazing. Nigerias diverse landscape and extensive river network create lots of hiking opportunities. He always made sure that in spite of the luggage hassles, we were having a good time and not letting that spoil our trip. This town is a short bus ride from Nakatsugawa, which is itself a short train ride from Nagoya. Additionally, the towns you see along here are less polished and more authentic than others Ive named. It was once one of five routes that the Tokugawa Shogunate officially controlled during the Edo period (1603-1868). Steeped in history, much of this walk weaves through the picturesque Kiso Valley. Beautiful scenery, accommodation, hosts, food and experiences. Before coming to Japan, Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansens online reservation service makes it easy for you to reserve bullet train tickets, ensuring that you can focus more on spending your time on the trail and excited for your next destination, and less time calculating how to reach it. It also shows the Nakasendo Route between Magome and Tsumago. I hope you have a great trip when you come to Japan , I finished hiking the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo a few days ago and have been looking for other hikes ever since. Mosquito repellant (in the summer), good walking/ hiking shoes, and water are also a must! Magome-Tsumago Trail (Old Nakasendo) - Kiso Valley Travel Whether youre planning to walk the Nakasendo after Covid-19, or were just curious about why so many people are drawn to this part of Japan, I hope you navigate away from my website feeling enlightened. The section of the trail that winds through the Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture passes through two exceptionally pretty and well-preserved old Japanese towns: Magome and Tsumago. For photo enthusiasts, dont forget a tripod too! Prefer a Custom Tour? I felt disappointed in myself for being so ungrateful after all the amazing experiences Ive had, for acting like the spoiled child I was in Kindergarten, when Taylor Dayne still got played on the radio, when the idea that I might one day have a dog of my own was as foreign to me as the possibility that I might one day travel the world. Nakasendo Trail - Hiking through the Kiso Valley from Magome - Kanpai The Nakasendo is very easy to access. Heres what he thinks every visitor needs to know. This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one. Im glad you can finally experience this tradition.. Continuing eastward, major stops along the Nakasendo include Tsumago, Kiso-Fukushima and Narai. The Nakasendo Way is a stunning 94km journey from Mitake to Narai. The trail below Magome-toge passes through mixed forest, including a fair bit of planted sugi (cryptomeria). The Nakasendo Trail links Kyoto and Edo via the mountains. Unlike Magome and Tsumago however, Ochiai is much less preserved and feels more like a modern-day town. They smell wonderfully of wood and are clean and spacious. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. The provided dinner was a feast that included sushi, tempura, meat, veggies, potato, eggplant, sashimi, octopus, pickled veggies, and umeshu. Nakasendo Trail - Traildino Walking the Nakasendo, an old mountain route between Kyoto and Tokyo, is a great way to sample Japans rural scenery. Take The Next Step Speak With A Tour Expert 1.800.941.8010 Reserve This Tour Request A Call Email An Expert Share This Trip: You Might Also Like New Zealand: Alpine & Coastal Hiking To keep bears away. The trip to Magome costs Y560. After your traditional Japanese breakfast, you can take the train to your next destination. Note, the Nakasendo Route on this map is only approximate: do not rely on this map for route finding. Unless you suffer from physical, mental or emotional conditions that make it difficult or impossible for you to travel independently, the Nakasendo is more than easy enough to navigate on your ownmost of it is literally paved. For free.. 530 km, 27 days, 67 stages. Nakasendo | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization) Start your journey by traveling from Kyoto or Tokyo to the town of Nakatsugawa by bullet train, then take a short bus ride to the village of Magome. Check out these other posts! Moderate 4.8 (138) Nakatsugawa Shi, Gifu, Japan. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 14 min to . This gives you plenty of time to change trains. Both museums have a wonderful collection of weapons, clothing and other artefacts that provide a great insight into the fascinating history of the time. Nakasendo Trail - All You Need To Know To Hike This Edo Period Route Thanks for the comprehensive guide (and video)! The route they're taking is the Nakasendo Trail ( Central Mountain Route) which once spanned the mountainous 540km between Kyoto and Tokyo. The Nakasendo can last a few hours, a few days or more than a week, depending on how far you go and the pace you keep. Words, images and design 2009-2023 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. BOOK NOW Ask a question Duration: 5 days Trip level: Active Availability: Recommended from April to November Type: Self-guided You can walk the most popular section, Magome to Tsumago, as a daytrip from Kyoto. I felt charmed as I spotted the first bell along the path just outside the village of Magome, in the foothills of the Japanese Alps. Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the lush and tranquil scenery, while history buffs will enjoy seeing the preserved post towns (think wooden buildings, no power lines, no cars).
