Follow the footsteps of samurai, monks, and merchants as we hike Japan’s iconic Nakasendo Trail! Samurai may have swapped their swords for suits, but Japan’s Nakasendo Trail still holds the magic of its feudal past. Over eight days, we’ll trace ancient footpaths through misty forests, climb castle towers, and wander post towns that feel straight out of a storybook. Kyoto kicks things off with shrines and tea ceremonies, then it’s on to cobbled paths, stunning waterfalls, and mountaintop views that make every step worth it. Add in soothing hot springs, next-level Japanese cuisine, and more than a few sake-fueled toasts along the way, and this trip is shaping up to be one for the history books—literally.
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.
You’ll meet your guides in the foyer of The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo at 9am. After a short briefing, we’ll walk through Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto. The climb to the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto. Afterwards, we’ll have lunch in a local restaurant featuring traditional Japanese cuisine.
We’ll make our way back to the hotel to enjoy some free time before meeting up for a Japanese tea ceremony. This will be a wonderful experience that will offer some fantastic photo opportunities. Tonight, the group will come together to enjoy a fabulous dinner in Kyoto, accompanied by sake or beer.
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 3 hours
Accommodation: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo in Kyoto
After breakfast, we’ll be transferred from Kyoto to Hikone, a captivating castle town nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa. Afterwards, we’ll make our way to the small town of Ena, where we’ll take a break at our accommodation for the night, the charming 400-year old Ichikawa Inn.
Later on, we’ll take a stroll to the nearby Hiroshige Museum of Art, a cultural haven that offers a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the world of traditional Japanese woodblock art. We’ll return to our accommodation and enjoy delicious organic food.
Note: Flexible walking options are available on Day 2. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 3-6 km (1.8-3.7 mi)
Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn in Ena
After breakfast, we’ll head out on today’s walk through rural Japan. As we leave the quaint post town of Okute-juku, with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and cobblestone streets, the path meanders through lush, serene countryside. The route offers glimpses of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, vibrant rice paddies, and the soothing sounds of babbling streams.
Along the way, we can pause at tranquil shrines and rest stops, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the Japanese countryside. After our walk, we will be transferred to the Naegi Castle Ruins. Often likened to Machu Picchu in Peru, the Naegi Castle Ruins in Japan hold an air of ancient mystique and historical significance. Later on, we’ll go back to our accommodation in Ena. Tonight we’ll have dinner at our accommodation.
Note: Flexible walking options available today. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi)
Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn in Ena
Today, we’ll head out on our walk to the old post town of Magome. Our journey leads us upwards towards the enchanting Magome Pass. Along this path, our surroundings shift from expansive countryside vistas to the depths of the Kiso Valley. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a rest stop at a traditional-style Japanese house with an irori fire pit. Afterwards, we’ll admire the captivating duo of waterfalls before arriving at the village of Tsumago.
We’ll explore this small town before heading to our accommodation at the charming Maruya Inn in Tsumago, a Japanese-style retreat. Relax in the soothing waters of the hot springs (onsen) before enjoying a superb dinner served with sake or beer.
Note: Flexible walking options are available on Day 4. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 4 hours
Elevation gain: 461 m (1,512 ft)
Accommodation: Maruya Inn in Tsumago
On Day 5, after breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to our accommodation and make our way to Nagiso to start our walk. Our walk today avoids the busy road trail along the river and travels over the Yogawamichi Path from Modono to Nojiri. As we traverse the path through dense forests, we’ll occasionally catch glimpses of distant mountain peaks.
Afterwards, we will enjoy the scenic drive to the town of Kiso Fukushima. Early this evening, we’ll visit the Sake Brewery (optional), meet the friendly staff, and sample some of Japan’s best sake. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner served with sake or beer.
Note: Flexible walking options available today. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter walk from Tsumago to Nagiso. From there, the driver will collect you and take you on to the town of Kiso Fukushima for some free time.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8 mi), 4 hours
Elevation gain: 669 m (2,194 ft)
Accommodation: Tsutaya Inn in Kiso Fukushima
After breakfast, we’ll make our way through the mountainous landscapes of south-east Nagano, transferring to the foot of the impressive Mt. Ontake for the start of our walk. We’ll start with a steep stone staircase section taking us through the forest up to the monument of the Three Great Gods of Ontake, known as Omata Sansha. We’ll continue our walk through forests and see various stone carvings along the pilgrimage up to Ontake. We’ll pass through the Hanadofukando and Juni Gongen Shrine before reaching the waterfalls.
We’ll have lunch before making our way to Kiyotaki Falls, another beautiful water formation used for cleansing rituals and our final stop before reaching the end of the trail. After our walk, we’ll make our way to the Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat. Enjoy the open-air hot springs before joining everyone for dinner in the restaurant.
Note: Flexible walking options available today. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 4.5 hours
Elevation gain: 323 m (1,059 ft)
Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat
On Day 7, after breakfast, we’ll embark on a journey from Yabuhara to Narai. As we ascend, the panorama transitions from tranquil woods to sweeping vistas of the Kiso Valley, with its charming villages nestled in the embrace of surrounding mountains. In Narai, a beautifully preserved town, we’ll be welcomed by cobblestone streets, traditional Edo-era buildings, and a sense of having journeyed through time itself.
After our walk, we’ll enjoy free time to meander through the streets of Narai before we head to the beautiful town of Karuisawa. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner in the restaurant served with sake or beer.
Note: Flexible walking options available today. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi)
Elevation gain: 373 m (1,223 ft)
Accommodation: Ancient Hotel Karuisawa
Following a satisfying breakfast, we’ll embark on the final leg of our hiking adventure. We’ll explore the stunning Shiraito Waterfall, known as one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in Japan. We’ll make our way to the observation deck for stunning mountain views before reaching the picturesque Usui Pass. At this idyllic spot, we’ll pause for a break, and explore the Kumanokotail Shrine or indulge in an ice cream treat at the nearby cafe.
We’ll make our way down into the valley until we reach the end of the Usui Pass trail. Our driver will meet us at the end of the nature trail to avoid the busy road into Yokokawa. From here, we’ll make our way back to Tokyo, with drop-offs at the Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi.
Note: Flexible walking options available today. Those not wanting to do the whole walk can enjoy an easier section.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 4.5 hours
Almost every hiking day, there’s going to be options for shorter walks for people who’d like to hike at a somewhat more leisurely pace.
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Add-ons:
Not included:
This Nakasendo trail hike is rated easy to moderate, depending on the day. The longest walk is 14 km (8.7 mi), while the highest elevation gain is 669 m (2,194 ft). It’s recommended to start going for long walks and start doing uphill walks prior to the trip in order to build up your fitness level.
You can find more detailed information about the hiking distances and elevation gains in the itinerary.
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Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
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
A Nakasendo trail hike can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Nakasendo trail hike is Kyoto. To get there, 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.
Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 9am in the foyer of the The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo.
Please note that you will need to fly into Japan the day before your tour starts.
Medical and travel protection is mandatory on this adventure. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
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Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
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
Flexible
Super Flexible
