Guided Nakasendo Trail Hiking and Walking Tour

After arriving at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport, make your way to your hotel and take some time to settle in. As evening approaches, meet your guide and fellow travelers for a warm and cheerful welcome session that sets the tone for the exciting days ahead. Later, enjoy a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant, where you will savor your first authentic taste of Japanese cuisine. Surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city, it’s the perfect beginning to your journey filled with good food, new friendships, and the captivating charm of Tokyo.

Your journey into rural Japan begins as you leave behind the vibrant streets of Tokyo and board a train bound for the serene and picturesque Kiso Valley, part of the historic Nakasendo trail that once connected Kyoto and Edo during Japan’s feudal era. Over the next three days, you will explore the countryside on foot, walking from one quaint village to another, and spending your nights in traditional, family-run inns known as ryokan and minshuku.

Today’s adventure takes you to the charming town of Shiojiri, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch of freshly made buckwheat noodles, or soba, a local specialty beloved across the region. Afterward, begin a gentle 1.6-mile walk from Kiso-Hirasawa to Narai, one of the most beautifully preserved post towns along the Kiso Valley route. Kiso-Hirasawa is renowned for its exquisite lacquerware, and you may get a glimpse of skilled artisans crafting these delicate works by hand.

As evening falls, arrive in Narai and settle into a cozy traditional inn surrounded by the tranquil beauty of this Edo-period village. The day concludes with a warm welcome and a serene traditional tea ceremony, offering the perfect reflection of Japan’s timeless grace and hospitality.

Elevation: Mostly flat

Your second day on the Nakasendo Trail begins with a scenic 6.2 km (3.9 mile) hike from Narai to Yabuhara, crossing the peaceful Torii Pass, a historic route once used by samurai, merchants, and pilgrims. The forested path offers occasional views of the Kiso Valley and a serene atmosphere throughout the walk.

In Yabuhara, visit a local artisan to learn the craft of making Orokugushi wooden hair combs, a tradition that dates back to the Edo period. You will also explore the Kiso Village Local Museum before enjoying lunch and sake tasting at a historic brewery founded in 1650. Later, take a train to Kiso-Fukushima and stay overnight in a traditional ryokan with a natural hot spring. Relax in the soothing indoor or open-air baths and unwind after the day’s journey.

Elevation gain: 270 m / 885 ft, descent: 344 m / 1,128 ft.

Start the day with a scenic train ride from Kiso-Fukushima to Nagiso, bringing you to the southern section of the Kiso Valley. From Nagiso, begin your hike toward Magome, passing through the beautifully preserved post town of Tsumago. Once a key stop on the Nakasendo Trail, Tsumago has been carefully protected by local regulations that prevent alteration or demolition of its traditional houses, making it a living museum of Edo-period Japan. Wander its streets, take in the historic atmosphere, and enjoy glimpses of daily life in this charming village.

From Tsumago, continue the hike for approximately 8 km (5 miles) to Magome, the final post town on your Nakasendo journey. This section is considered one of the most scenic of the entire trail, with quiet forest paths, gentle mountain views, and the tranquil charm of rural Japan. In Magome, explore the stone-paved lanes, browse local shops, and perhaps sample gohei-mochi, a local delicacy of skewered sticky rice coated in sweet soy, sesame, and walnut sauce.

After the day’s hike, check into a cozy inn in Nakatsugawa, for an overnight stay, relax, and soak in the village’s timeless atmosphere.

Elevation gain: Ascent: 430 m / 1,410 ft, Descent: 326 m / 1,069 ft, 4 hours .

Begin the day with a short transfer to Nakatsugawa Station, followed by a scenic train ride of just over three hours to the beautiful Shiga Prefecture. Arriving at Yogo Station, lace up your shoes for today’s hike up Mt. Shizugatake. The trail takes around 2.5 hours to the summit, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After soaking in the scenery at the top, descend easily using the chair lift.

From the base, a short taxi ride brings you to Kinomoto, a charming post town rich in history. Wander the streets, visit the historic Jizo-in Temple, and enjoy a tour of a local Soy Sauce Brewery. Later, transfer by train and shuttle to your accommodation near the serene Lake Biwa. Spend the evening relaxing in peaceful surroundings or soaking in the onsen and gather with the group for a delightful dinner.

Maximum altitude: 408 m, Elevation gain/loss: 297 m / -81 m,

Start your day with a train ride to Hikone Station, the gateway to the Sawayama Castle ruins trail. Embark on a scenic hike of approximately 7.8 km (around 5.5 hours), passing through serene temple grounds and historic sites, including the tranquil. The trail Ryotanji and Seiryoji temples leads you to Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles and a designated national treasure. Explore its centuries-old architecture, enjoy sweeping views over Lake Biwa, and take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Genkyuen Garden.

After the hike, transfer to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Spend the evening at leisure, settling into your accommodation and soaking up the city’s timeless atmosphere. For a special experience, wander through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. Enjoy dinner at your own pace, sampling Kyoto’s local flavors and soaking in the evening ambiance.

Elevation gain/loss: approximately 145 m

Start the morning with a train transfer to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in southern Kyoto, famous for its seemingly endless rows of vibrant vermilion torii gates. Hike along the path that winds up the mountain from the main shrine to the upper sanctuary. These gates, donated by worshippers, express gratitude or seek blessings, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

After exploring Fushimi Inari, continue on foot to Tofukuji Temple, a nearby UNESCO World Heritage site. This beautiful Buddhist temple offers a contrasting perspective on Japan’s spiritual heritage, highlighting the diversity of its religious traditions. Following lunch, take the train to Nanzen-ji Temple, where you can admire its historic architecture and serene gardens.

The day continues with a peaceful hike along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic riverside trail leading to Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion. The quiet path, lined with temples and seasonal scenery, brings a perfect close to your Kyoto exploration. In the evening, gather with your guide and fellow travelers for a special Farewell Dinner to celebrate the memories of your journey together.

• Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji: 30-minute walk

After breakfast, your journey through Japan's Nakasendo trail draws to a close. You are free to make your own departure plans. Your guide will be available to assist with any questions, offer helpful tips, and provide guidance for your onward travel plans.