Prepare to experience Old Japan on foot with this exciting hike through traditional post towns, ancient forests, and dramatic mountain passes. Starting in Tsumago-juku post town, your guide will explain a bit about what kinds of people traveled the roads in Old Japan, where they were going, and how they lived. You will get a chance to enter some buildings including an old Inn and a horse-stable that perfectly illustrate what your guide has mentioned. Leaving Tsumago-juku post town, you will start out on an 8km trek to the next post town, passing by roaring waterfalls and quiet hamlets along the way. Keep an eye open for wildlife and wildflowers while you are led by your guide along what was once one of the main avenues of travel in Japan. Arriving at Magome-juku post town, you will be treated to far off views of fields and mountains as you descend to the bottom of this very vertical village. After having a little time for shopping, you will board the tour vehicle and head back.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
5 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
172annies, 10/11/2025 10:47:09 AM
This tour was a highlight of my trip and Nadine was an ideal guide! I hope I can come back and do this tour again! This 8 km hike is the perfect blend of history and nature and I couldn’t stop taking pictures because every few feet was another beautiful sight. Nadine was extremely knowledgeable and was able to bring to life the trail and everything we were seeing with her historical details as well as her knowledge of Japanese culture. The pace was just right, with plenty of opportunities to pause for water breaks or snacks. The day I went was too hot, so if I go again I’ll try to hit October or early spring, but other than that this was the perfect day hike. A couple tips: - bring water, hat, and sunscreen, this is a long walk. - the terrain and trails are fairly even and well paved, but its hilly so come ready for a workout.
Tyra_F, 10/11/2025 10:40:34 AM
Kevin was a great guide traveling along the old Nakasendo trail. He knows the history and is an avid hiker in Japan. You will experience some of what commuters faced back in the day traveling between Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Bring fit legs (some stairs) and you will have a great time.
Happiness47759552627, 10/6/2025 6:29:08 AM
joyce was very considerate in guiding us during the trip; she was also passionate in her handling of our questions, be it something about the trip or places to go for dinner later. The last part of the trip at the observatory was the best, the view was spectacular.
ChicagoMom40, 9/7/2025 1:06:42 AM
Terrific walk between two historic post town s along a reverent easy stretch of the Nakasendo Trail. Lovely scenery, and while it was quite hot the day we went, the pace was manageable and long stretches of shade helped. Be sure to treat yourself to the chestnut ice cream in Magome at the end!
Muzzyd, 6/30/2025 9:50:24 PM
We had a fabulous day tour with Kieron on the Nakasendo Trail. We knew beforehand that our time in the Kiso Valley was going to be limited but Snow Monkey Resorts have organised a first rate way to experience this interesting and unique place. The pace was perfect, Kieron was obviously very experienced and knowledgeable and we would unhesitatingly recommend people to do this tour.
TheShortList, 6/13/2025 8:14:28 AM
Shawn was an amazing guide. It was a long hike and he stayed with us and very informative. This is a once in a lifetime walk though history. A bit physically challenging but with breathtaking views.
Wanderer592494, 6/13/2025 6:35:49 AM
We had a great day hiking the Nakasendo trail with Shawn of Snow Monkey Resorts. What a great adventure! Shawn was excellent as our guide and he even provided beautiful weather. This was a special last day of our tour of Japan. Shawn helped make the day perfect! The trail was a must see for our first trip to Japan, and highlighted the natural beauty, culture, and history of Japan.
glasssimont, 5/16/2025 11:05:49 PM
We walked the Nakasendo trail with guide Dai Harvey and had an awesome day. Dai is warm, friendly, and a great communicator. He bought to life the journey of the Samurai of past times and explained the history and culture. Dai adds anecdotes and related details of Japanes culture, which makes this a standout tour.
colinsG7144IE, 5/3/2025 12:07:20 AM
Dai and Nadine were excellent guides - friendly, well-informed and client focused. A fantastic day - despite the rain!
Karteek P, 4/18/2025 4:08:53 AM
A nice way to explore the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago to Magome. We started our journey from Matsumoto by a private bus van to Tsumago - which has buildings dating back to the 17th century. Our guides, Kim and Hemi took us through the trail providing a detailed history and thoughtfully answered our questions. If you are looking for a day trip, enjoy history, hiking and scenery - you’ll love this.
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Travel time is already included in the total duration of travel
- All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.
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