Places You'll See
Highlights
- Private guided hike along the historic Nakasendo Trail
- Relaxation in the alkaline “beauty hot springs” of Hirugami Onsen
- Panoramic alpine views and short hike at Senjojiki Cirque
- Ascend the Japan Alps via Komagatake Ropeway, Japan's highest ropeway
- Convenient round-trip transportation with luggage support from Nagoya
Description
Discover the perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation on this immersive 2-day journey from Nagoya to the Japanese Alps. Explore the historic Nakasendo Trail, unwind in the rejuvenating “beauty hot springs” of Hirugami Onsen, and ascend to the alpine heights of Senjojiki Cirque via the Komagatake Ropeway.
*ESTIMATED BUDGET – Please note that the estimated budget advertised on this page is only for the cost of the tours and what they include. Some tours may include transportation between tour destinations via tour buses. However some tours do not include transportation between tour destinations, and you will need to book your own transportation in such cases. Please refer to each tour listed on this page for further information on what is not included.
Day 1 NAKASENDO TRAIL
How to Start Your Day
Wake up ready for a nature-filled day exploring the famed Samurai Road. As this tour starts at 9am, you will have time to enjoy Nagoya's Morning Service at your hotel or a local cafe before meeting your guide and driver at your accommodations.
You will be able to bring your luggage on the tour vehicle with you, so you do not need to worry about transporting it to your next accommodations. Just remember to purchase a bento beforehand as there is no place to buy food on the trail!
[START FROM NAGOYA] Nakasendo Trail and Post Towns Private Hike / March-June & Sept-Dec
Private Tour
New Tour
[FROM NAGOYA] Nakasendo Trail and Post Towns Private Hike
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
¥21900 ~ / person
Discover the timeless beauty of rural Japan on a guided private journey along the historic Nakasendo Trail, once traveled by samurai and merchants. Departing from Nagoya, this full-day tour combines cultural insight, scenic landscapes, and sustainable travel.
Begin with a visit to a museum showcasing the work of Utagawa Hiroshige, where you can learn traditional woodblock printing techniques used to paint each post town along the trail. Then explore the beautifully preserved post town of Tsumago-juku before embarking on an 8 km guided hike through forests, farmland, and waterfalls. Along the trail, enjoy peaceful moments in nature and connect with local traditions at a historic teahouse. Arrive in the charming hillside town of Magome-juku, where you can sample regional foods and browse handcrafted souvenirs.
This experience offers an authentic and immersive way to connect with Japan’s cultural heritage at a relaxed and meaningful pace.
How to End Your Day
We recommend staying in Hirugami Onsen after a full day of hiking to take advantage of the onsen town's famous "beauty hot springs" by enjoying a relaxing bath in one of the many traditional Japanese inns.
Hirugami Onsen is known for its alkaline waters, with a pH of 9.7, which leave your skin exceptionally smooth, earning it the nickname bijin no yu, or “beauty spring.”
Many ryokan baths open toward the surrounding mountains, allowing you to soak while taking in the soft colors of spring, or, later in the evening, the remarkably clear night skies that Achi Village is famous for.
Our team will be happy to drop you off at the accommodation of your choice. If you wish, we can also assist you in booking an evening starry night tour where you can take a gondola ride to the top of a mountain and enjoy stargazing under the best night sky in Japan.
Please note that this tour would be lead by the Hirugami Onsen Tour Association, not our guide from your Nakasendo Hike.
Recommended Accommodation
Accommodations in Hirugami Onsen range from traditional ryokan inns to modern hotels. Natural onsen baths are available at 21 of these accommodations, with several featuring private hot spring baths and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Many inns in Hirugami Onsen serve multi-course kaiseki dinners featuring local ingredients, allowing you to enjoy regional cuisine after your hike. For more information, check out our Hirugami Onsen Hotel Page.
Day 2 SENJOJIKI CIRQUE
How to Start Your Day
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your ryokan or hotel in Hirugami Onsen. Take a moment to soak in the “beauty hot springs” one last time before heading out. We recommend taking a walk to the Hirugami Onsen Morning Market to check out the locally grown produce and souvenirs before meeting your driver.
Your driver will pick you up and begin the scenic drive toward the Komagatake Ropeway station at the base of the mountain. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling mountains, valleys, and peach blossoms (if visiting during spring).
Arrive at the Komagatake Ropeway station and take the cable car up to the Senjojiki Cirque plateau. The ropeway ride itself offers spectacular panoramic views of the Central Alps.
Explore the Senjojiki Cirque on a short 1–2 hour hike. This area is famous for its dramatic alpine scenery, rocky formations, and seasonal alpine flowers. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and take plenty of photos.
Descend via the Komagatake Ropeway and spend a few minutes at the base station for souvenir shopping or a light snack.
When you are ready, our driver will pick you up and begin your journey back to Nagoya. If you wish to instead continue on to Matsumoto, Nagano, or elsewhere, please contact us.
How to End Your Day
Depending on what time you depart Senjojiki, you will likely arrive back in Nagoya quite late. We highly recommend staying near the Nagoya Station area, offering convenient access to transportation and easy access to a variety of attractions, dining options, and shopping experiences, ensuring that your time in Nagoya is both enjoyable and hassle-free.
Private Charters
NAGOYA → SENJOJIKI/KOMAGATAKE ROPEWAY
- Duration:
- 2-3 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagoya, Kiso Valley
¥102,200~
Recommended Accommodations
As one of Japan’s largest cities, Nagoya has a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget.
The area immediately around Nagoya Station has many large hotels—ranging from high-end to budget—including some inside the station itself. Located a short subway ride away from Nagoya station, the Sakae area of Nagoya is the city’s main shopping and entertainment district. As such the area has many great options for travelers looking to enjoy the city’s fine dining or nightlife. For travelers looking for a more traditional stay, Nagoya and the surrounding areas also have many traditional ryokan to choose from.
Check out our Nagoya destination page for more information on where to stay.
FAQs
- What is included in this 2-day tour?
- The tour includes a private guided hike along the Nakasendo Trail, transportation with a dedicated driver, luggage transfer during the tour, and drop-off in Nagoya. Accommodation, meals, and optional activities like stargazing or kaiseki dinners are arranged separately.
- How physically demanding is the Nakasendo hike?
- The Nakasendo Trail is considered moderate, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail includes forest paths, gentle inclines, and historic village streets. Your guide will pace the walk comfortably and provide breaks along the way.
- How long is the Senjojiki Cirque hike?
- The hike at Senjojiki Cirque is a short 1–2 hour walk, suitable for most travelers. The trail offers stunning alpine scenery, rocky formations, and seasonal flowers. Comfortable shoes and layers are recommended.
- Do I need to carry my luggage during the tour?
- No. Your luggage travels with you in the tour vehicle, so you can enjoy the hikes and sightseeing unencumbered.Are meals included?
- Are meals included?
- No. Guests are encouraged to purchase a bento for the Nakasendo hike and can enjoy optional meals at ryokans in Hirugami Onsen or cafés near Senjojiki Cirque.
- hen is the best time to see Hanamomo blossoms in Hirugami Onsen?
- The Hanamomo Festival occurs in spring, typically from mid-April to early May, depending on the year’s weather.
- Can you help arrange accommodation in Hirugami Onsen?
- Yes. We can assist in booking traditional ryokan with onsen baths or modern hotels based on your preferences, budget, and desired experience.
- Is stargazing included in the tour?
- Stargazing in Achi Village is optional and not included by default. It can be arranged separately for an unforgettable night under one of Japan’s clearest skies.
- Can this itinerary be customized or extended?
- Yes. The itinerary can be tailored to include extra sightseeing, extended stays, or onward travel to destinations like Matsumoto or Nagano.
- What happens in case of bad weather?
- The tour generally operates in light rain. In case of severe weather, alternative plans or rescheduling options will be offered to ensure safety and comfort.
