Step back in time as you make your way along the Nakasendo Way, a network of ancient highways used by people travelling from Kyoto to Tokyo. Along the four day walk you will trek along village paths and forested trails getting a unique taste of Japan.
Highlights
Traditional Japanese service and hospitality makes the route a truly special experience
The self guiding allows for a flexible schedule to take the trail at your own pace
Allows for a completely unique experience of Japan uncovering ancient highways and a wealth of culture and history on the way
The perfect way to get off the tourist trail and experience traditional Japanese towns and villages
The Nakasendo Way or 'the road through the central mountains' was one of the five major highways linking Tokyo to the provinces in ancient Japan and today provides is an incredible and unique way to experience the country, walking the most beautiful part of the original route from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Along the way after days soaking up the incredible scenery and beautiful villages you are welcomed at night with stunning Japanese hospitality at small Minshukus and Ryokans (guesthouses). The trail weaves through the mountain valleys found between Tokyo and Kyoto along paved village walkways and forested mountain trails.
The walk is self guided giving you complete freedom on pace, so that you can enjoy your surroundings at your own speed. The trail varies, taking you through forests of bamboo and Japanese cedar to picturesque mountain towns. In order to experience the very best that the trail as to offer along the most beautiful sections there will be a few train transfers which equally are an iconic Japanese experience.
The Ryokans, traditional Japanese Inns, where you will stay along the way are the height of Japanese hospitality with faultless and gentle service. Each night you will be warmly welcomed at these family run establishments and served delicious traditional Japanese cuisine using only the finest and freshest of ingredients. The style of the Ryokans are simple and traditional but wonderfully comfortable.
As the walk is self guided you will you be provided with all your necessary train tickets prior to setting off along with a detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking instructions including a topographical map.
When to visit
Speak to an Expert on Japan
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Enquire NowThe trail starts from Magome, which can be accessed by bullet train from Tokyo or Kyoto to Nakatsugawa. From Nakatsugawa a bus can be taken to Magome.
Jinpyokaku Honten
Established in 1901, Jinpyokaku is a historic onsen ryokan loved by many writers and artists such as
Yasunari Kawabata and Soseki Natsume. With only 6 rooms, this is a quiet and traditional option and a great base from which to explore the mountains.
Hoshinoya Karuizawa
Just 90-minutes from Tokyo, the stunning hot spring resort village of Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a world away from city life. Located amid the beautiful forests and rivers of Karuizawa, this is a place to quiet the mind and relax the body.
Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel
Hotel Marunouchi Matsumoto sits in the heart of the mountain city of Matsumoto, adjacent to the 16th century Matsumoto Castle, offering modern accommodation of an international standard, making this a comfortable base from which to explore.
KAI Matsumoto
Offering exclusive and deluxe Japanese-style accommodation, the Hoshino KAI Matsumoto is a boutique hot spring ryokan, serving exquisite Japanese cuisine, where you can relax away any tension in the hot spring baths and enjoy nightly music concerts.
