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Nakasendo Trail Hike in Japan: The Samurai Way

Duration
8 days
Season
April through October
Group size
Up to 12 people
Accommodation
Comfort: Authentic hotels, lodges, and temples
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate: Easy to moderate walks, hiking up to 4 hours and 14 km (8.7 mi) per day, while gaining up to 669 m (2,194 ft) in elevation

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.

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

Available itineraries

Nakasendo Trail Hike in Japan: The Samurai Way (Kyoto to Tokyo)

This tour runs either Tokyo to Kyoto or Kyoto to Tokyo. Choose this option if you want to start in Kyoto.

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

    A Pagoda 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 3-6 km (1.8-3.7 mi)
    Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn in Ena

    Hikone castle
  • 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi)
    Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn in Ena

    Hiker in Japan
  • 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation gain: 461 m (1,512 ft)
    Accommodation: Maruya Inn in Tsumago

    Magome in japan
  • 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 13 km (8 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation gain: 669 m (2,194 ft)
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Inn in Kiso Fukushima

    Kiso Fukushima city
  • 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 4.5 hours
    Elevation gain: 323 m (1,059 ft)
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat

    Mount Ontake in Japan
  • 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.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi)
    Elevation gain: 373 m (1,223 ft)
    Accommodation: Ancient Hotel Karuisawa

    Magome town in Japan
  • 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

    Shiraito falls
  • 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.

Nakasendo Trail Hike in Japan: The Samurai Way (Tokyo to Kyoto)

This tour runs either Tokyo to Kyoto or Kyoto to Tokyo. Choose this option if you want to start in Tokyo.

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.

  • We’ll meet in the foyer of Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi at 8am. From there, we make our way to the town of Yokokawa, where our walk begins just 1 km outside of town at the Usui trailhead. The trail gradually ascends as we enjoy scenic views and countless stone relics, eventually reaching the picturesque Usui Pass. At this idyllic spot, we’ll take a break—exploring the Kumanokotai Shrine or treating ourselves to a delicious ice cream at the nearby café, all while savoring panoramic views of the majestic Mt. Asama. Next, we’ll continue to the Observation Deck for even more stunning mountain vistas. Afterwards, we’ll head to our fabulous accommodation for the night: the charming Ancient Hotel in Karuizawa. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner served with wine.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch
    Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 4.5 hours

    Shiraito falls
  • This morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast before taking a short detour to visit the stunning Shiraito Waterfall, tucked away in a serene forest. Measuring three meters high and 70 meters wide, it’s often considered Japan’s most beautiful waterfall. Shiraito no Taki means “the waterfall of white threads,” a name that perfectly captures the sight of countless delicate streams cascading down the rock face like a white curtain. After soaking in this natural wonder, we’ll transfer to Yabuhara and begin our walk for the day.

    Today’s hike takes us on a picturesque journey from Yabuhara to Narai via the historic Torii Pass—a walk through the heart of Japan’s Kiso Valley that feels like a step back in time. The trail winds through peaceful forests, where sunlight filters through a green canopy and wooden torii gates appear mysteriously amid the trees. As we ascend, the landscape opens up to sweeping views of the Kiso Valley, dotted with traditional villages cradled by the mountains. Arriving in Narai, a beautifully preserved Edo-period post town, we’ll stroll its cobblestone streets and soak in the timeless atmosphere. After some free time to explore, we’ll head to the scenic Kaida Plateau. Our accommodation tonight is the superb Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat, which overlooks the majestic Mount Ontake. Dinner will be served at the hotel’s restaurant, complete with wine.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi)
    Elevation gain: 373 m (1,223 ft)
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat

    Magome town in Japan
  • After breakfast, we journey through the mountainous landscapes of southeastern Nagano, transferring to the base of the impressive Mt. Ontake—the starting point of today’s walk. This trail is the owner’s personal favorite in all of Japan, and one you truly shouldn’t miss. We begin with a steep stone staircase winding through the forest, leading us to the Omata Sansha, the monument of the Three Great Gods of Ontake. From there, we continue through lush woodlands, passing numerous Reijinhi—sacred stone carvings used in Ontake’s mountain pilgrimage rituals.

    Along the way, we visit Hanadofukando and the Juni Gongen Shrine, both steeped in spiritual tradition, before reaching the dramatic Shintaki Falls. Cascading down 50 meters, these falls—like many others around Ontake—are revered for their use in purification rituals. People travel from afar to experience their cleansing powers. As we near the end of this rewarding journey, we pause for lunch before arriving at our final highlight: Kiyotaki Falls, another breathtaking site of spiritual cleansing. After the walk, we return to the superb Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat. Soak in the open-air onsen hot springs before gathering for dinner in the restaurant, served with sake or beer.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 4.5 hours
    Elevation gain: 323 m (1,059 ft)
    Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat

    Mount Ontake in Japan
  • After breakfast, we bid farewell to our accommodation and make our way to Nojiri, where today’s walk begins. Rather than following the busy riverside road, we take the quieter Yogawamichi Path from Nojiri to Modono. This captivating route winds through Japan’s lush and untouched countryside, offering a peaceful journey across alpine landscapes, forested hills, and charming rural villages—providing a true glimpse into traditional life in the Kiso Valley. As we walk through dense cedar forests in all their natural beauty, we’re treated to occasional views of distant mountain peaks through the trees.

    At the end of the trail, our driver meets us for a scenic transfer to the historic town of Tsumago. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, served with wine, at the lovely Maruya Inn.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 13 km (8 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation gain: 669 m (2,194 ft)
    Accommodation: Maruya Inn

    Kiso Fukushima city
  • After an enjoyable breakfast, we set out on our walk toward the old post town of Tsumago—a time-honored jewel nestled in Japan’s lush Kiso Valley. Tsumago enchants with its meticulously preserved Edo-era architecture, evoking the sense of stepping into a living museum. Surrounded by scenic mountains and a winding river, its tranquil atmosphere invites us to experience the serene beauty of rural Japan in its most authentic form.

    Today’s walk takes us from Tsumago to Magome, along a scenic trail where we pass a pair of captivating waterfalls and watch the landscape shift from wide countryside views to the dense, green embrace of the Kiso Valley. Along the way, we stop at a traditional-style Japanese house where staff in period dress serve us tea beside an iron fire pit—a warm and memorable rest. Our path then ascends toward the enchanting Magome Pass, before eventually descending into the cobblestone streets of Magome itself. With its wooden watermills and well-preserved Edo-era architecture, this quaint town radiates timeless charm. After time to explore, we visit the Naegi Castle Ruins—often likened to Peru’s Machu Picchu for their cliffside setting and ancient mystique. Later, we head to our accommodation for the night: the charming Ichikawa Inn, a 400-year-old guesthouse still run by the owner’s sixth-generation family. Tonight, enjoy a lovingly prepared organic dinner, made from recipes passed down through the generations.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 4 hours
    Elevation gain: 461 m (1,512 ft)
    Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn

    Magome in japan
  • After breakfast, we set out on today’s walk from Okute-juku to Oi-juku—a journey through time and tradition in the heart of rural Japan. Leaving the quaint post town of Okute-juku, with its beautifully preserved Edo-period buildings and cobblestone streets, we follow a peaceful path through lush countryside. Along the way, we pass traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, vibrant rice paddies, and gently flowing streams. The route offers tranquil shrines and quiet rest stops where we can pause and take in the calm rhythm of rural life in Japan.

    In the afternoon, we return to our accommodation and enjoy a leisurely stroll to the nearby Hiroshige Museum of Art—a cultural haven celebrating traditional Japanese woodblock art. Here, we’ll have the chance to try our hand at creating our own masterpiece, offering a hands-on connection to Japan’s rich artistic legacy. We return for the evening to our welcoming inn, where we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner made from organic recipes passed down through generations—served with warm Japanese hospitality.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi)
    Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn in Ena

    Hiker in Japan
  • This morning, after breakfast at the hotel, we transfer by private vehicle to Hikone, a captivating castle town nestled along the peaceful shores of Lake Biwa. As we wander through its historic streets, we uncover fascinating stories from Japan’s feudal era. Hikone remains a hidden gem, with its castle proudly holding the status of a Japanese National Treasure. The town’s charm has even made it a backdrop for numerous period films, including the acclaimed “Shogun” starring Richard Chamberlain and Toshiro Mifune.

    Later, we travel to Kyoto and check in at The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo. After some free time, we gather for a special afternoon experience: a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Dressed in vibrant, exquisite kimonos of your choice—and for the women, with flowers styled in your hair—you’ll join our expert to learn this timeless ritual that encourages mindfulness and celebrates simplicity and humility. This memorable experience also offers fantastic photo opportunities. Tonight, the group comes together for a fabulous dinner in Kyoto, accompanied by fine wine.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 3-6 km (1.8-3.7 mi)
    Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn

    Hikone castle
  • This morning, we take on the final walk of our journey: the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine trail, a must-see experience in Kyoto. Wander beneath thousands of vivid orange torii gates that form a mesmerizing tunnel, winding through the forest and ascending the hillside. This walk is as visually stunning as it is deeply spiritual, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto from the summit.

    Afterwards, we enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine. We then return to the hotel, where our wonderful tour concludes around 3pm.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch
    Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 3 hours

    A Pagoda in Kyoto
  • 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.

Japan Walking Tours
Honshu (6) | Hokkaido (3) | Kyushu (1)
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Meet your guide

Life’s an Adventure
5.00
Life’s an Adventure
Life’s an Adventure was founded in 2008 by Mark Norek with a simple but transformative idea—hiking should be about more than just walking. Inspired by his own experiences, Mark introduced the Pack-Free Walking Experience, combining stunning trails with comfort, luxury, and unforgettable moments. As the company grew, so did its vision, expanding to include immersive cultural experiences, fine dining, and exclusive access to remote landscapes. Today, Life’s an Adventure ensures every journey is about more than just the trail—it’s about truly experiencing the destination.

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

  • Regardless of the itinerary you choose, inclusions remain the same.

    Included:

      • An experienced, Japanese and English-speaking hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 8-day Nakasendo trail hike in Japan with flexible walking options almost each day
      • Accommodation: 7 nights in 4-star hotels or higher
      • All meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners (dinners with sake, beer, or soft drinks)
      • Trail mix to enjoy on the trails
      • Pack-free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry
      • Luggage transported to your accommodation each day
      • Private vehicle transfers (no trains)
      • All transport and transfers to the walking trail listed in the itinerary
      • All sightseeing and activities listed in the itinerary
      • Experiences:
        • Japanese traditional tea ceremony & kimonos, Kyoto
        • Fushimi Inari shrine walk, Kyoto
        • Sake experience, Kiso Fukushima
        • Japanese woodblock art class
      • National Parks passes, when applicable

    Add-ons (available to add at checkout):

      • Single occupancy room

    Not included:

      • International or domestic flights
      • Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges
      • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
      • Special dietary requirements
      • Visa and passport fees
      • Personal expenses
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Travel and medical insurance — mandatory
  • 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.

    Looking to explore a different side of Japan? Check out this biking adventure!

  • 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.
      • Solo travelers willing to share a room will be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender whenever possible. If no suitable match is found approximately 12 weeks before the tour, the single supplement fee will be applied.

    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 starting point of your Nakasendo trail hike is either Kyoto or Tokyo. 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.

  • 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!

    Redpoint tailors their 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.

    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

      • 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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