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Nakasendo Trail Hike in Japan: The Samurai Way

Duration
7 days
Season
April through October
Group size
Up to 12 people
Accommodation
Comfort, Luxury: Authentic hotels, lodges, and temples
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate: Good fitness required, hiking up to 5 hours and 13 km (8 mi) per day, while gaining up to 669 m (2,194 ft) in elevation
57hours verified
Guide, accommodation, all meals, transfers, luggage transfers, authentic experiences

Follow in the footsteps of samurai, monks, and merchants on an elegant journey along Japan’s legendary Nakasendo Trail. This all-inclusive, seven-day experience blends cultural discovery with comfort and style, tracing ancient mountain paths that once connected Kyoto and Tokyo. Wander through misty cedar forests and storybook post towns, visit centuries-old shrines, and unwind each evening in luxurious accommodations featuring soothing onsens and exceptional Japanese cuisine. From private tea ceremonies in silk kimonos to sake tastings, art workshops, and peaceful moments beneath temple eaves, every detail is curated for those who crave both adventure and indulgence. It’s Japan at its most authentic—and most unforgettable.

Adventure highlights

  • Shrines, sake, and scenery
    Discover Kyoto’s sacred sites, taste Japan’s finest brews, and hike through breathtaking landscapes
  • Castles and cobblestones
    Explore samurai-era fortresses and stroll through beautifully preserved Edo-era villages
  • Hot springs and ryokans
    Soak in traditional onsens (hot springs) and unwind in cozy Japanese inns after daily hikes
Highlighted reviews from other travellers
C
Cheryl H.

Excellent tour. I loved the variety of accommodation options from the old traditional Roykans to the more modern upmarket. The food was excellent albeit in some instances more than I could comfortably eat! Have the numerous onsen experiences was wonderful particularly after our days walk. Our guides Quinlan and Kiyomi were so lovely and complimented each other when explaining the cultural/historic significance of walks each day. A pretty dynamic duo I must say! So friendly and helpful. Both are extremely knowledgeable and it was lovely to hear from both of them. I found the information video covering the Mt Ontake earthquake was excellent. Something I wasn’t really aware of, I think it’s so important to understand these things. The pace of the tour was really good and I loved having time at the end of the day to relax and enjoy the onsens at our various accommodation. I would definitely recommend this tour to my friends.

J
Judith T.

The tour was amazing. The guides were outstanding and complemented one another so well. Lots of very useful and in depth information sprinkled with interesting stories and always happy to answer all or general questions regarding Japanese culture. The food was exquisite. Beautifully cooked, arranged and highly nutritious as well as being a work of art. My only small concern was that sometimes it was too much for my appetite and I was unable to complete some meals. The walk was at a good level 3 and perfect for a me – a 76 year old walker. I had no issues with this walk but others who needed to take it a little slower were always catered for and very well looked after. It was a beautiful walk and the right combination of up and downhill with lots of splendid forest walking in between. The accommodation was amazing and gave us a wide variety of styles many with amazing onsens which were sooo lovely after a day of walking.

B
Barbara Peachey

Wonderful tour .. loved the walks and the cultural offerings. The guides Kaz and Quinn were amazing. Kaz went out of his way to make sure everyone was happy and well supported. His Japanese “word of the day” was a highlight

Show all reviews

Itinerary

This tour runs in the direction Kyoto-Tokyo. If you're interested to join the other direction, Tokyo-Kyoto, please reach out for availability.

The Nakasendo Trail Hike isn’t just a walk—it’s a step back in time. We’ll trace the legendary Edo-period highway, weaving through castle towns, mountain passes, and villages that feel like living museum exhibits. Along the way, we’ll sip matcha in Kyoto, soak in onsen hot springs, and feast on farm-fresh Japanese cuisine. From Fushimi Inari’s torii gates to the cobbled streets of Magome, every mile is packed with history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether we’re hiking through misty forests or wandering ancient shrines, this is Japan as it was meant to be explored—on foot, at our own pace, with plenty of surprises along the way.

  • In the morning, meet your guides in the foyer of the Royal Park Sanjo Hotel Kyoto at 9 a.m. The first top of the adventure is one of the city’s most iconic sites: the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walking through its thousands of vivid orange torii gates is a mesmerizing experience, as the tunnel-like path winds through the forest and up the hillside. The walk is both visually stunning and deeply spiritual, culminating in sweeping views of Kyoto from the summit. Afterward, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Japanese cuisine. Returning to The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo, there’s time to relax before our special afternoon experience—a Japanese tea ceremony. Dressed in exquisite kimonos (with hair styling for women), we learn the graceful art of tea preparation, a practice that fosters mindfulness and simplicity. This cultural highlight concludes with a group dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by wine.

    Meals: Lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 3 hours
    Terrain: Stone paths, forest trails, hillside stairways
    Accommodation: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

    Kyoto sightseeing symbol in Japan
  • After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer by private vehicle from Kyoto to Hosokute-juku, a tranquil and lesser-visited post town along the Nakasendō Trail. Today’s walk takes us from Hosokute-juku to Okute-juku, one of the most beautifully preserved and scenic stretches of the route. The trail winds through quiet forest, historic stone-paved paths, and gently rolling countryside, offering an authentic experience of rural Japan. Along the way, we pass moss-covered waymarkers, serene shrines, and traditional thatched-roof farmhouses that reflect centuries of travel along this ancient road. As we near Okute-juku, the landscape opens to views of surrounding hills and farmland, showcasing the natural beauty of the Gifu region. At the end of the walk, we meet our private vehicle and continue to Ena for a hands-on Hiroshige ukiyo-e woodblock printmaking workshop. Later, we check into Enakyo Onsen Hotel Yurisha and enjoy dinner with wine.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 11 km (6.8 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation: +450 m (1,476 ft), -480 m (1,575 ft)
    Terrain: Forest trails, stone paths, undulating hills
    Accommodation: Enakyo Onsen Hotel Yurisha

    Guided Nakasendo walk
  • After an enjoyable breakfast, we begin today’s journey with a scenic walk to the beautifully preserved post town of Magome. We stroll through its cobblestone streets, passing wooden watermills and traditional houses that embody Edo-era Japan. From Magome, the trail ascends gradually toward the serene Magome Pass. As we climb, the scenery shifts from open countryside to the tranquil forests of the Kiso Valley. Midway, we pause at a traditional Japanese home, where hosts in period attire serve warm tea beside an irori hearth—a charming glimpse into local culture. Reenergized, we continue through lush woodland, passing a pair of picturesque waterfalls before reaching the timeless village of Tsumago. Nestled among forested hills and flowing rivers, Tsumago offers an authentic window into rural Japan. After exploring, we transfer and we’ll unwind in the onsen before a multi-course dinner with sake or beer.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation: +200 m (660 ft), -380 m (1,250 ft)
    Terrain: Forest and countryside trails, stone paths, asphalt sections
    Accommodation: Taoya Kisjo Hotel Tsumago

    Flexible hike option: 2.5 km (1.6 mi) from Magome-juku to Magome Pass or 5.5 km (3.4 mi) from Magome Pass to Tsumago

    Beautiful Magome post town
  • After breakfast, we farewell our accommodation and transfer to Nagiso to begin today’s walk. The trail follows the Yogawamichi Path from Modono to Nojiri, a scenic route that avoids the busy riverside road. This captivating walk meanders through unspoiled countryside, serene alpine forests, and traditional mountain villages, offering an authentic glimpse into rural life in the Kiso Valley. As we ascend through dense cedar forests, filtered light reveals glimpses of distant peaks and valleys below. The path combines natural beauty with cultural depth, embodying the quiet spirit of Japan’s ancient travel routes. After the walk, we meet our driver and continue to the charming town of Kiso-Fukushima. In the early evening, there’s an optional visit to a local sake brewery to meet the friendly staff and sample regional varieties before enjoying a traditional dinner with sake or beer.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 13 km (8.1 mi), 5 hours
    Elevation: +669 m (2,195 ft)
    Terrain: Steep sections, stone paths, wooden footbridges, dirt trails
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Inn, Kiso Fukushima

    Flexible hike option: 10 km (6 mi) from Nenoue Pass to Nojiri, 3.5-4 hours, -500 m (1,640 ft)

    Nagiso Japan
  • After breakfast, we travel through the mountainous landscapes of southeast Nagano, transferring to the base of Mt. Ontake to begin today’s walk. This trail—often described as one of Japan’s most captivating—begins with a steep stone staircase ascending through dense forest to the monument of the Three Great Gods of Ontake, known as Omata Sansha. The path continues through lush woodland, passing sacred Reijinhi stone carvings used in ancient rituals. Along the way, we visit Hanadofukando and Juni Gongen Shrines before reaching Shintaki Falls, a 50 m (164 ft) cascade revered for its purification ceremonies. Pilgrims have long journeyed here to cleanse both body and spirit. The final stretch leads to Kiyotaki Falls, another sacred site framed by mossy rocks and serene forest. After the walk, we transfer to Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat to relax in the open-air onsen before a delicious dinner with sake or beer.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 4–5 hours
    Elevation: +250 m (820 ft), -250 m (820 ft)
    Terrain: Stone paths, steep staircases, dirt forest trails
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat

    Flexible hike option: 4-5 km (2.5-3.1 mi), 3 hours, +150 m (492 ft), shorter section Ontake Waterfall Trail loop

    Mount Ontake Japan
  • After breakfast, enjoy the views of Mt. Ontake before setting out on today’s walk. The journey from Yabuhara to Narai via Torii Pass feels like stepping back in time through the heart of the Kiso Valley. The trail winds through tranquil forests where sunlight filters through the canopy, occasionally revealing wooden torii gates marking progress toward the pass. As we ascend, the scenery opens to sweeping views of the Kiso Valley, dotted with traditional villages nestled among the mountains. Arriving in Narai, a beautifully preserved post town, we’re greeted by cobblestone streets, Edo-era architecture, and the timeless charm of old Japan. After the walk, enjoy time to explore Narai at your own pace before continuing to the picturesque town of Karuizawa. Our accommodation tonight is at the elegant Ancient Hotel, a luxurious woodland retreat with soothing hot springs. Dinner is served with sake or beer.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 7 km (4.3 mi), or you can skip the whole day of hiking and transfer to Narai
    Elevation: +373 m (1,224 ft)
    Terrain: Forest trails, stone paths, dirt tracks, moderate inclines
    Accommodation: Ancient Hotel, Karuizawa

    Flexible option: Transfer directly to Narai and spend the day at leisure

    Narai Japan town
  • After a hearty breakfast at the Ancient Hotel Karuizawa, we set out on a gentle morning walk to Shiraito Waterfalls, where delicate streams cascade over a wide rock face like silken threads. After a peaceful moment to reflect, we transfer to the historic Usui Pass to begin our final and most rewarding walk of the journey. Here, we trace a quiet section of the old Nakasendō Trail, once traveled by samurai and merchants, beginning at the Kumanokotai Shrine on the border of Nagano and Gunma Prefectures. The trail descends steadily through shaded cedar forests, past moss-covered stone markers and remnants of Edo-era rest stations, revealing expansive valley views along the way. This 8 km descent is both scenic and deeply atmospheric—a perfect finale to our walking adventure. In the afternoon, we travel by private transfer back to Tokyo, concluding our journey at the Royal Park Hotel Shiodome.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch
    Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 3.5 hours
    Elevation: -750 m (2,460 ft)
    Terrain: Cypress-lined forest trails, stone paths, dirt tracks, steep descents

    Flexible hike option (morning): 2.5 km (1.6 mi), 1–2.5 hours, Ancient Hotel to Shiraito Waterfalls via Ryugaeshi Falls

    Shiraito waterfall
  • Please arrange your own flights to Kyoto, arriving one day before the tour. Breakfast on Day 1 is not included—the accommodation a night prior to the tour is your responsibility.

Adventure brochure
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Accommodation

5.00(3 reviews)
C
Cheryl H.

Excellent tour. I loved the variety of accommodation options from the old traditional Roykans to the more modern upmarket. The food was excellent albeit in some instances more than I could comfortably eat! Have the numerous onsen experiences was wonderful particularly after our days walk. Our guides Quinlan and Kiyomi were so lovely and complimented each other when explaining the cultural/historic significance of walks each day. A pretty dynamic duo I must say! So friendly and helpful. Both are extremely knowledgeable and it was lovely to hear from both of them. I found the information video covering the Mt Ontake earthquake was excellent. Something I wasn’t really aware of, I think it’s so important to understand these things. The pace of the tour was really good and I loved having time at the end of the day to relax and enjoy the onsens at our various accommodation. I would definitely recommend this tour to my friends.

J
Judith T.

The tour was amazing. The guides were outstanding and complemented one another so well. Lots of very useful and in depth information sprinkled with interesting stories and always happy to answer all or general questions regarding Japanese culture. The food was exquisite. Beautifully cooked, arranged and highly nutritious as well as being a work of art. My only small concern was that sometimes it was too much for my appetite and I was unable to complete some meals. The walk was at a good level 3 and perfect for a me – a 76 year old walker. I had no issues with this walk but others who needed to take it a little slower were always catered for and very well looked after. It was a beautiful walk and the right combination of up and downhill with lots of splendid forest walking in between. The accommodation was amazing and gave us a wide variety of styles many with amazing onsens which were sooo lovely after a day of walking.

B
Barbara Peachey

Wonderful tour .. loved the walks and the cultural offerings. The guides Kaz and Quinn were amazing. Kaz went out of his way to make sure everyone was happy and well supported. His Japanese “word of the day” was a highlight

Show all reviews
5.00(3 reviews)
C
Cheryl H.

Excellent tour. I loved the variety of accommodation options from the old traditional Roykans to the more modern upmarket. The food was excellent albeit in some instances more than I could comfortably eat! Have the numerous onsen experiences was wonderful particularly after our days walk. Our guides Quinlan and Kiyomi were so lovely and complimented each other when explaining the cultural/historic significance of walks each day. A pretty dynamic duo I must say! So friendly and helpful. Both are extremely knowledgeable and it was lovely to hear from both of them. I found the information video covering the Mt Ontake earthquake was excellent. Something I wasn’t really aware of, I think it’s so important to understand these things. The pace of the tour was really good and I loved having time at the end of the day to relax and enjoy the onsens at our various accommodation. I would definitely recommend this tour to my friends.

J
Judith T.

The tour was amazing. The guides were outstanding and complemented one another so well. Lots of very useful and in depth information sprinkled with interesting stories and always happy to answer all or general questions regarding Japanese culture. The food was exquisite. Beautifully cooked, arranged and highly nutritious as well as being a work of art. My only small concern was that sometimes it was too much for my appetite and I was unable to complete some meals. The walk was at a good level 3 and perfect for a me – a 76 year old walker. I had no issues with this walk but others who needed to take it a little slower were always catered for and very well looked after. It was a beautiful walk and the right combination of up and downhill with lots of splendid forest walking in between. The accommodation was amazing and gave us a wide variety of styles many with amazing onsens which were sooo lovely after a day of walking.

B
Barbara Peachey

Wonderful tour .. loved the walks and the cultural offerings. The guides Kaz and Quinn were amazing. Kaz went out of his way to make sure everyone was happy and well supported. His Japanese “word of the day” was a highlight

Things to know

  • Included:

      • Experienced, Japanese and English-speaking hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 7-day Nakasendo Trail hike
      • Accommodation for 7 nights in the best lodging in the area (double occupancy)
      • All meals, as listed in the itinerary (6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 superb dinners featuring local produce)
      • Complimentary wine or soft drink with evening meals
      • Authentic experiences:
        • Japanese traditional tea ceremony & kimonos, Kyoto
        • Fushimi Inari shrine walk, Kyoto
        • Sake experience, Kiso Fukushima
        • Japanese woodblock art class

    Add-ons (available to add at checkout):

      • Single occupancy room

    Not included:

      • International or domestic flights
      • Airport transfers
      • Visa and passport fees
      • Personal expenses
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Insurance — mandatory, available to add at checkout
  • This adventure isn’t just a walk—it’s a deep dive into Japan’s living culture. Along the way, we’ll slow down to experience the country’s traditions firsthand, from meditating with monks and sharing tea in elegant kimonos to learning ancient art techniques and soaking in soothing onsens. It’s the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and connection—a journey that engages all the senses. This is what to expect.

      • Japanese tea ceremony & kimonos — take part in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto while dressed in an exquisite kimono, learning the graceful art of this centuries-old ritual.
      • Japanese art & printmaking class — create your own woodblock print at the Hiroshige Museum, discovering the techniques behind this timeless art form.
      • Sake tastings — visit a local brewery in Kiso-Fukushima to sample premium sake and learn about Japan’s rich brewing traditions.
      • Onsen hot springs — relax in soothing, mineral-rich hot springs, a cherished Japanese ritual for rest and renewal.
      • Traditional cuisine — savor multi-course Japanese dinners, temple vegetarian meals, and local specialties paired with sake or wine.
  • This Nakasendo Trail hike is ideal for those with a good level of fitness who enjoy walking and being active most of the day. Daily walks range from 6–13 km (3.7–8 mi), taking about 3–5 hours on well-maintained forest and countryside trails, with occasional steep or uneven sections. The longest day involves around 669 m (2,195 ft) of ascent. You don’t need to be an athlete, but regular walkers will find the pace comfortable and rewarding. Flexible walking options are available on many days, allowing you to shorten or skip a hike and relax or explore at your own pace.

    Flexible walking options are available on many days, offering shorter routes or the choice to rest or transfer by vehicle. You’re always welcome to take a rest day and explore at your own pace—this journey is yours to enjoy your way.

    Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Japan walking tours here!

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Small day pack for items you might need throughout the day
      • Hiking poles — optional
      • Passport, visa, and indemnity form
      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
      • Comfortable hiking clothes
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • Sunhat
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. Your luggage will be transferred from one point to another, so you don’t need to worry about hauling your luggage with you.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Nakasendo trail hike, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1.
      • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.

    A Nakasendo trail hike can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Nakasendo trail hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The price for this Nakasendo Trail walk is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. In case your guides can’t find a match, they’ll let you know in time, and you’ll be charged the single occupancy room cost.

  • The starting point of your Nakasendo trail hike is either Kyoto or Tokyo (depending on which starting point you choose). You can choose your preferred option, i.e. tour direction.

    To get to Kyoto, most people fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX). From there, you can use public transport (bullet train, 13 minutes to Kyoto) or rent a car to reach Kyoto.

    To get to Tokyo, most people fly into Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND).

    You’ll meet your guide in the morning of Day 1. Please note that you will need to fly into Japan at least a day before your tour starts.

  • Insurance is mandatory for this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

    Basic

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Super Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
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