Nakasendo Walking: Highway Journey Becoming an Edo-Period Traveler

What is the Nakasendo?

Nakasendo is one of the highways connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto in the Edo era, about 534km total length. An important trunk road alongside the Tokaido, called the "mountain road" for passing through mountainous areas. Many post towns including Narai-juku, Tsumago-juku, and Magome-juku remain within Nagano Prefecture.

Popular Hiking Route

Especially Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku (about 8km) is the most popular route of Nakasendo walking. Very popular with foreign travelers, highly evaluated in guidebooks and travel websites. At the "Otsumagо hamlet" along the way, local cuisine can be enjoyed at thatched-roof farmhouse restaurants.

Accommodation Experience in Post Towns

Traditional wooden inns and guesthouses are available in Tsumago-juku, Narai-juku, and others for staying while savoring the Edo-period inn atmosphere. Evening and morning meals using local ingredients are also a pleasure of the journey.