Deep in the foothills of Central Japan, the Nakasendo echoes with centuries of traveler footsteps and vivid Edo-period history. Once a major route connecting Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo), today its scenic preserved towns—like Magome and Tsumago—and forested mountain paths offer a rare glimpse into Japan’s past. With Snow Monkey Resorts, you can stroll through storied villages, trek along the trail used by samurai and merchants, and take in the timeless ambiance with ease.
Transport along the Nakasendo can be difficult to plan, as trains run infrequently. To solve this, Snow Monkey Resorts provides seamless private tours, group day trips, and flexible charters starting in Nagano, Matsumoto, Nagoya, and beyond. Explore historic post towns, tranquil villages, and forested mountain passes—all with an English-speaking guide, private transport, and thoughtful logistics.
Getting to The Nakasendo with Snow Monkey Resorts
Access to the Nakasendo varies depending on the village or trailhead. Whether starting from Nagano/Matsumoto, Takayama, or Nagoya, Snow Monkey Resorts ensures smooth transfers and clear guidance—so you can walk, explore, and enjoy without worry.
Our tours allow you to start in one city and end in another — the perfect option for travelers planning a multi-city route through Nagano. Whether for a relaxed day of walking trails or as part of a wider journey in Central Japan, our guiding and transfer services ensure a smooth experience from beginning to end.
From Matsumoto/Nagano
Starting from Matsumoto, located at the northern reaches of the Nakasendo, or further afield in Nagano City, we provide convenient private charters and guided tours tailored to your schedule. Enjoy direct access to Magome and Tsumago, two of the best preserved towns along the trail.
Group Tours
Our guided group tours from Matsumoto/Nagano make it simple to travel to the Nakasendo, while also allowing you to make the most of the day with your guide along to explain about the area and answer your questions - as well as make sure you take no wrong turns!
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo / March - June & September - December
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Running from April through to June, with a short break in July and August to avoid the summer heat, and resuming from September to November, this tour is great for those who want to combine a great hike with a cultural experience. Once one of the main thoroughfares for traveling throughout Japan, the Nakasendo today is a little quieter but still draws visitors looking to walk its well trodden path. Along the way, guests on this tour will have the chance to see Tsumago and Magome, two post towns which preserve the look and feel of Japan in the days of the Samurai, and also have a number of tasty delicacies as a reward for undertaking the hike. 8 km in total, and with lots of ups and downs, this hike is not super strenuous but does require guests to be in good physical condition. Nonetheless, the walk adds a lot to the experience as you find yourself stepping on cobblestones laid down under the order of the Shogun centuries ago.
Pick Up Locations: Nagano Station, Matsumoto Station
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit the Nakasendo, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalized experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
Click the banners below or here for more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
NAGANO→MAGOME/TSUMAGO (NAKASENDO)
- Duration:
- 3-4 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Kiso Valley
MATSUMOTO→MAGOME/TSUMAGO (NAKASENDO)
- Duration:
- 2-3 Hours
- Spots:
- Matsumoto, Kiso Valley
From Takayama
From the beautifully preserved town of Takayama, the Nakasendo can be reached by going over the Northern Japanese Alps down in to the Kiso Valley. Our tours and charters provide a good way to reach destinations on the Nakasendo that would otherwise be unreachable by public transport in a realistic timeframe.
Group Tours
At the moment, we unfortunately do not have any group tours running to the Nakasendo from Takayama, but we are working on fixing that! In the meantime, if you happen to be in Takayama and want to visit the Nakasendo with us, we recommend either heading to Matsumoto using the local Nohi Bus service, from where you can join the above mentioned tours, or taking the Hida Express Train to Nagoya and joining the tours offered from there which can be found in the following section.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit the Nakasendo, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalized experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
Click the banners below or here for more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
TAKAYAMA→MAGOME/TSUMAGO (5HRS)→TAKAYAMA
- Duration:
- 9-10 Hours
- Spots:
- Takayama, Kiso Valley
TAKAYAMA→MAGOME/TSUMAGO (NAKASENDO)
- Duration:
- 2-3 Hours
- Spots:
- Takayama, Kiso Valley
From Nagoya
From the vibrant city of Nagoya, the historic Nakasendo can be accessed by traveling north into the scenic Kiso Valley. Our tours and private charters provide a smooth and convenient way to reach post towns along the Nakasendo that are otherwise difficult to access by public transport within a practical day trip timeframe.
Group Tours
Our guided group tours from Nagoya make it simple to travel to the Nakasendo, while also allowing you to make the most of the day with your guide along to explain about the area and answer your questions - with no chance to get lost or miss any vital transport!
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail / March - June & September - December
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku. This scenic section of the Nakasendo trail is brimming with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and remote mountain villages—which have remained relatively untouched by the modern world. Your experienced, English-speaking guide will lead you through the historic post town of Tsumago, along the 8 km Nakasendo trail, past waterfalls and wildlife, and into the stunning post town of Magome. Shop for handmade crafts and sample local fare.
This tour will reward those who like to take the road less traveled and enjoy an adventurous experience into the heartland of Japan.
**A non-hiking option of this tour is available for individuals who are not able to hike or prefer a more leisurely pace. Please read the tour page for more information about joining this tour as a non-hiker.
(Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Local Traditions of the Nakasendo Road / December - Early March
(Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soba Cooking Class & Nakasendo Traditions
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Embark on a scenic escape to the mountains and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s Kiso Valley as you explore the rich history and traditions of the villages along the Nakasendo Trail on this day trip from Nagoya.
Delight in a hands-on soba-making workshop where you’ll create and savor this iconic dish. Explore a traditional Kabuki theater and learn about the region’s favorite pastime. Wander through the picturesque streets of Magome-juku, a historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail, and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Led by an experienced, English-speaking guide, this full-day tour offers a chance to relax and recharge in the serene countryside of Central Japan.
Private Tours
Our private tours to the Nakasendo are perfect for travelers who want a more personal experience with the flexibility to move at their own pace. With a dedicated guide and vehicle, you can enjoy this amazing place without the constraints of a group itinerary, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
[START FROM NAGOYA] Rural Japan in Magome & the Kiso Valley Private Tour / All Year Round
New Tour
[START FROM NAGOYA] Rural Japan in Magome & the Kiso Valley Private Tour
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Escape to the mountains and enjoy a refreshing getaway through Japan’s picturesque Kiso Valley as you tour historic villages and embrace local traditions on this day trip from Nagoya. Stroll down the streets of Magome-juku a post town on the Nakasendo trail, learn Japanese calligraphy in a historic temple, and dine on a wide array of dishes at a farm-to-table buffet. Relax and recharge in the charming countryside villages of Central Japan as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit the Nakasendo, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalized experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
Click the banners below or here for more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
NAGOYA → NAKASENDO TRAIL (5HRS) → NAGOYA
- Duration:
- 9-10 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagoya, Kiso Valley
Why Choose Snow Monkey Resorts for the Nakasendo
Walking the historic Nakasendo is a highlight of any visit to Central Japan, and traveling with Snow Monkey Resorts ensures your experience is seamless and rewarding. Whether you’re planning a gentle stroll through post towns, a full day of hiking, or a multi-destination adventure, we provide the support and flexibility you need.
- Multiple starting points, including Matsumoto, Nagano, Takayama, and Nagoya, with the option to end your trip in a different city for maximum convenience.
- Choice of guided group tours for an immersive experience, private tours for a tailored itinerary, or private charters for flexible travel, with the option to combine the Nakasendo with other iconic destinations such as Matsumoto Castle, Takayama's Old Town, and more.
- Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who share insights into the Nakasendo’s history, cultural heritage, and timeless atmosphere of its preserved post towns.
- Safe, comfortable transport by private vehicle, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the mountain scenery as you make your way into the Kiso Valley.
Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on experiencing the charm of the Nakasendo—whether for a single day or as part of a longer journey through Central Japan.
The Best Time to Visit the Nakasendo
The Nakasendo can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering its own charm. In spring, cherry blossoms and fresh greenery line the historic trail, while summer provides long daylight hours and lush mountain scenery. Autumn is especially renowned for its brilliant foliage, making it one of the best times to walk between the preserved post towns. Winter brings a quieter, more atmospheric experience, though some sections may be snowy and require extra care.
Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water for the trail. An umbrella or rain coat is recommended, as showers can arrive unexpectedly in the mountains. Dressing in layers is also important, since mornings and evenings in the Kiso Valley can be cool even in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which tours visit Magome and Tsumago?
A: We offer tours to these towns from both Nagoya and Matsumoto, especially our 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo and 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
Q: How long is the walk between Tsumago and Magome?
A: The forested trail stretches approximately 8 km between these historic post towns.
Q: Can I do a half-day Nakasendo tour?
A: Most tours are full-day for logistics and travel time to reach these preserved mountain towns. Charters offer more flexibility but usually require the full duration.
Q: Are these tours suitable for children or less-mobile travelers?
A: The 8 km walk includes hills and uneven terrain—sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness are recommended. Private charters offer flexibility to shorten hikes or explore villages instead.
Q: Can I combine the Nakasendo with other destinations like Matsumoto Castle or Zenko-ji Temple?
A: Due to the distances involved, this is not recommended for most of our tours, but depending on your plans Matsumoto Castle or other locations in the Kiso Valley such as the Atera Gorge may be possible.