7 Days 6 Nights Nakasendo Exploration
NAGOYA TO NAGOYA
Translating to “the road through the mountains,” the Nakasendo was one of Japan’s five major routes during the Edo period (1603–1867). Stretching roughly 530 kilometres between Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo), it meanders through the mountain heartlands of Honshu. Along this storied highway once stood 69 post towns — charming waypoints where weary travellers found rest, a warm meal, and glimpses of daily life in old Japan.
EXPERIENCES TO BE DISCOVERED
ITINERARY
Nagoya to Nagoya
Travel from 15 April till 30 November 2026
Arrive in Nagoya, where you’ll be warmly welcomed at Chubu Centrair Airport before a private transfer to your hotel. Take the evening to unwind and settle in at the contemporary Nikko Style Nagoya (or similar class), a sophisticated urban retreat that reflects the city’s modern charm and refined hospitality.
Begin your journey along the historic Nakasendo as you travel from Nagoya to Magome Juku, one of the most beautifully preserved post towns along the ancient trail. Try your hand at a traditional Gohei Mochi making experience, then embark on a gentle 3KM walk along the Ochiai Stone Path to Magome Juku, where cobblestone lanes and wooden townhouses evoke the charm of Edo-period Japan.
After exploring the town’s heritage streets, continue on to Gero Onsen — celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Great Hot Springs. Relax into the tranquil rhythm of this mountain retreat and enjoy the evening at a traditional Japanese ryokan, complete with restorative hot spring baths and a beautifully prepared dinner showcasing seasonal flavours.
Today’s journey traces one of the most picturesque stretches of the Nakasendo Trail, beginning with a scenic transfer to Magome Pass. Set out on a 6KM walk toward Tsumago Juku, a beautifully preserved post town where time seems to stand still. Wooden inns, tea houses, and rustic shops line the cobblestone streets, offering glimpses into the quiet grace of Edo-period travel.
Continue your walk from Tsumago Juku to Nagiso — a 3.5KM trail that winds gently through forests, streams, and mountain villages — before transferring to Kiso Fukushima, your home for the night. Stay in a traditional Japanese inn with soothing hot spring baths and savour a refined dinner that celebrates the seasonal delicacies of the Kiso Valley.
Begin your morning with a leisurely walk through Fukushima Juku, a charming post town once bustling with travellers on the Nakasendo. The short 1.5KM stroll reveals quiet streets and traditional wooden façades that preserve the understated beauty of Japan’s mountain heritage.
Continue onward to the highlands of Kaida Kogen, a serene plateau framed by views of the majestic Mount Ontake. Embark on a 7KM hike along the Jizo Pass Trail, where lush forests open to sweeping panoramas from the observation deck — a tranquil reward for the day’s journey. Visit Kisouma-no-sato, a cultural village celebrating the region’s famed Kiso horses, before retreating to your traditional Japanese inn. As evening falls, relax in the natural hot springs and indulge in a multi-course dinner crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
Depart Kaida Kogen for Yabuhara , where you’ll continue your Nakasendo journey with a 4.5KM walk over the Torii Pass, one of the trail’s most scenic mountain routes. The path leads you to Narai Juku, often called the “Narai of a Thousand Houses” for its beautifully preserved wooden architecture stretching along the valley floor. Take time to wander its atmospheric streets lined with artisan shops and centuries-old inns — a perfect window into Edo-period craftsmanship and hospitality.
In the afternoon, travel onward to Nagano, a tranquil blend of alpine scenery and cultural depth. Settle into your elegant accommodation at Hotel Ambient Azumino (or similar class) and unwind with a thoughtfully prepared dinner showcasing the region’s refined culinary traditions.
Begin your day surrounded by Nagano’s tranquil landscapes with visits to some of the region’s most charming highlights. Stroll through the Daio Wasabi Farm, where orderly rows of vibrant green wasabi plants thrive in crystal-clear spring water — a serene glimpse into one of Japan’s most prized ingredients. Continue to Matsumoto Castle Park, home to one of Japan’s most iconic and beautifully preserved castles, its black-and-white silhouette standing proudly against the alpine backdrop.
Later, stop by the Ishii Miso Brewery, where traditional fermentation techniques have been preserved for generations, offering an authentic taste of Japan’s culinary heritage. As the day draws to a close, transfer to Nagoya and check in at the stylish Nikko Style Nagoya (or similar class), where modern comfort meets understated sophistication. Enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure.
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before your private transfer to Chubu Centrair Airport for your onward journey. As you leave the serene landscapes and timeless post towns of the Nakasendo behind, take with you the quiet elegance, cultural depth, and enduring spirit of Japan’s mountain road — a journey that lingers long after your return home.
A SELECTION OF ACCOMMODATIONS
RATES
From MYR16,550 per person
- Walk village to village on the loveliest parts of the old Nakasendo Trail
- Visit the exquisitely preserved villages of Magome, Tsumago, and Narai
- Bathe in the thermal waters at a hot spring ryokan
- Visit Matsumoto and see its famous castle
- Hike country trails and quiet rural roads, with some gentle ascents and descents
- 6 nights' accommodation
- 6 breakfasts, 5 Japanese set lunches & 4 hotel dinners
- English-speaking guide
- Tours and hiking (physical fitness required) as per itinerary
- Private vehicle
- Return air ticket to Nagoya
- Personal expenses, meals and services not mentioned
- Travel Insurance
- Price is based on twin share per person in Ringgit Malaysia, minimum four (4) persons to go.
- Due to high demand and limited accommodation along Nakasendo Trail, it is advisable to book early.
- Peak season surcharge applies for travel on 15 to 24 April 2026 and 10 to 16 August 2026.
- Unutilised services are non-refundable.
