Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
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6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Kiso Valley, best known for the Magome and Tsumago traditional villages, is another beautiful spot in the Japanese Alps. With one of the most famous hiking paths in all Japan, we set foot there on our quest for traditional Japan.
Magome and Tsumago are two beautifully preserved traditional villages. This value-packed Nakasendo trail day hike between Magome and Tsumago with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore both of the ancient post towns!
It is about 8 kilometres (5 miles) long and has only gentle elevation changes which takes around 2 hours to easy walk at a leisurely pace.
This private tour is a hiking day tour. Please wear hiking boots and gear for this tour. Public transportation or local taxis maybe used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.
Available options
Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
What's included
Meet up with guide on foot at a designated meeting point
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
While Magome and Tsumago served the same purposes for old-time travelers, the city has been preserved and restored in a very different way than Tsumago, with a broad stone walkway lined with trees and many traditional houses and craft shops.
Another difference is that it is on a slope, which leads to some beautiful views of the surrounding valley, and is home to several small museums that showcase the history of the town, the artists that lived there and their way of living.
I would recommend grabbing a drink or something to eat at the restaurants on top of the village and enjoy the views over the valley, or at the lower part to mix with the very interesting locals.
2
Stop 2
Tsumago is almost flat but also a very charming village that takes you back to the old Japan. The town was one of the first historical preservation projects in all Japan (if not the first) and it recreates the ambience with its unpaved streets and concealed cables.
It keeps many of the traditional houses, like the original inn (the Honjin) that welcomed the merchants that traveled the Nakasendo, and the secondary inn (Wakihonjin), the old notice board used to publish the decrees from the Shogun, the Buddhist temple (built during the XVI Century)…
But you’ll find it even more charming on it’s best enjoyed at night, when they lit up their lanterns and everything becomes quiet but, maybe, a drum beating.
What's not included
Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Private Vehicle
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
11 reviews
5★
8
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
28 reviews
5★
24
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.
This tour is not available from December until the end of February due to icy conditions. Please book Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide if you wish to visit these areas. You must use the bus to visit these areas and will not able to hike.
Meeting point
Nagiso Train station
Bus Timetables: Nagiso Train station to Tsumago
https://www.japan-guide.com/bus/kiso.html
About Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and traditional crafts. From the iconic Mount Kinka to the serene Gifu Castle, this destination offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
Top Attractions
Gifu Castle
Gifu Castle, also known as Inabayama Castle, is a reconstructed castle with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥350
Mount Kinka
Mount Kinka is a scenic mountain located in the heart of Gifu City. It is home to Gifu Castle and offers hiking trails with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (except for castle entry fee)
Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and is especially beautiful during the winter when the thatched roofs are covered in snow.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, ¥800 for the Shirakawa-go Gassho Style Houses Museum
Takayama
Takayama is a charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It is also famous for its annual Takayama Festival, one of Japan's most important festivals.
Historical
Full day to overnight
Free to explore, ¥600 for the Hida Folk Village
Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Castle is a beautifully preserved castle with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It is known for its unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Historical
2-3 hours
¥500
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hida Beef
Hida beef is a high-quality, tender beef from the Hida region, known for its marbling and rich flavor. It is often served as sushi, steak, or hot pot.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Gifu Crab
Gifu crab, particularly snow crab and horsehair crab, is a delicacy in the region. It is often served steamed, grilled, or in hot pot dishes.
Main Dish
Contains shellfish
Takayama Ramen
Takayama ramen is a local specialty featuring a rich, miso-based broth with noodles, topped with ingredients like Hida beef, green onions, and bamboo shoots.
Main Dish
Contains meat and soy
Gohei Mochi
Gohei mochi is a traditional Gifu sweet made from glutinous rice dough grilled over an open flame and topped with sweet soy glaze and bonito flakes.
Snack
Vegetarian (without bonito flakes)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Japanese Alps
White-water rafting on the Nagara River
Mountain biking in the countryside
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Picnicking by the Nagara River
Tea ceremonies in traditional settings
Visiting historic castles and temples
Participating in traditional festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Gifu Prefecture is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid unlicensed taxis or tour guides
Getting there
By air
- Chubu Centrair International Airport • 60 km from Gifu City
- Gifu Airport • 10 km from Gifu City
By train
Gifu Station, Nagoya Station
By bus
Gifu Bus Center, Meitetsu Bus Center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Gifu, connecting major attractions and neighborhoods. The system is efficient and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gifu City
Takayama
Shirakawa-go
Gujo Hachiman
Day trips
Shirakawa-go
60 km from Gifu City • Full day
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and is especially beautiful during the winter when the thatched roofs are covered in snow.
Takayama
100 km from Gifu City • Full day to overnight
Takayama is a charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It is also famous for its annual Takayama Festival, one of Japan's most important festivals.
Gujo Hachiman
50 km from Gifu City • Half day to full day
Gujo Hachiman is a charming town known for its well-preserved castle, historic streets, and the famous Gujo Odori Dance Festival. It offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, making it a great day trip destination.
Festivals
Takayama Festival • April 14-15 (Spring Festival) and October 9-10 (Autumn Festival)
Gujo Odori Dance Festival • July 31 - August 1 (Main festival) and throughout the summer (Evening dances)
Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up • January 15 - February 15 (Dates may vary)
Pro tips
- Visit Gifu Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
- Try Hida beef, a local delicacy, at one of the many specialty restaurants in Takayama or Gifu City.
- Explore the historic streets of Takayama on foot, and don't miss the morning markets for fresh local produce and street food.
- Experience the magical winter light-up event in Shirakawa-go, where the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses are illuminated at night.
- Participate in a traditional tea ceremony or onsen (hot spring) experience for a unique and relaxing cultural activity.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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