length

7 Days

difficulty

Moderate - Challenging

trip cost

From $3095 pp

Icons / stylised / time Created with Sketch.

length

7 Days

Icons / stylised / difficulty Created with Sketch.

difficulty

Moderate - Challenging

Icons / stylised /cost Created with Sketch.

trip cost

From $3095 pp

Nature Immersion

Cultural Interest

Group Self-Guided Trip

our walk experts

  • Overview
  • Highlights
  • On the Trail
  • Itinerary
  • Map
  • Inclusions
  • Navigation
  • Exclusive Guide
  • Similar walks

Overview

Nakasendo Way

This self-guided walking trip combines the freedom and flexibility of a self-guided trek with the support and company of other like-minded travellers | Guaranteed to depart on the dates outlined | Travelling on your own? We’ll pair you up with another solo traveller of the same gender on a twin-share basis.

Japan’s Nakasendo Way – or Central Mountain Route – was one of five major routes established by the Shogunate (Military Dictator) during the Edo period (1603–1868). The route is 533km long and has 69 post towns, which were set up to feed and accommodate the feudal lords, Samurai and merchant travellers. The ancient way passes through the Kiso Valley wedged between two of Japan’s sacred Mountains (Mt Ontake 3067m and Mt Komagatake 2956m) and is one of Japan’s most breathtaking and scenic areas.

You will travel on the ancient paved paths known as ishidatami, pass hidden waterfalls, walk through stunning cedar and cypress forests and numerous wayside shrines. Stay overnight in family-run ryokans and enjoy the wonderful well-preserved ancient villages of Nakatsugawa, Magome, Tsumago, Kiso-Fukushima and Narai, and taste the local delights of the Kiso Valley and Gifu Prefecture.

Your journey ends in the beautiful town of Matsumoto, famous for its magnificent black castle, mountains and museums.

The Group, Self-Guided Trip - Nakasendo Way

Highlights

Get Ready For

  • Take a journey through the heart of Japan with a group of like-minded travellers
  • Visit the well-preserved post towns of Nakatsugawa, Magome, Tsumago, Kiso Fukushima and Narai
  • Walk on the original ishidatami (stone paving) dating back more than 400 years
  • Follow in the footsteps of the Tokugawa Shogun and the Samurai during the Edo period
  • Explore Matsumoto, famous for its magnificent castle, mountains and museums
Nakasendo Way, Japan

On the Trail

The experience

The Nakasendo Way offers picturesque, tranquil walking and a variety of trail conditions as you progress along the Kiso Valley. Much of the time you will be walking through fields and rural villages and enjoying gentle inclines that can be taken at a comfortable pace. In the forest you will be walking on a track that can be wet or uneven underfoot. In the more built-up areas the path itself is asphalt, while at its wildest it becomes unformed grit winding between alpine conifers. For sections in between these two extremes, the path is clad in what’s known as ishidatami – a traditional style of stone paving.

Itinerary

Daily details

DAY 1: MITAKE TO HOSOKUTE (12KM)

Make your way from the Nagoya train station on the Meitetsu Line to Mitake Station (80 mins travel time). Mitake is where you will have a short briefing before you depart on your walk (meeting times will be in your travel documents). Our local RAW Travel representative will be able to recommend a local lunch spot (own expense) prior to your walk. You will begin your walk through the town and then make your way into the forest up a short hill known as the Cows Nose is Missing. This is the true beginning of your Nakasendo Way walk. Stay in the forest on this very scenic section through woodland and lush green countryside, walking on some of the original stoned paving known as ishidatami. There will be a chance to stop at La Province Café as you head towards Hosokute and your accommodation for the evening.

Meals: D

DAY 2: HOSOKUTE TO ENA (21KM)

Enjoy your first traditional Japanese breakfast and prepare for an exciting day following in the footsteps of the Samurai. Today you will walk over a very old section known as the 13 passes and 13 peaks. There has been no public access through here, which keeps the area completely undeveloped, save for a golf course. The original way used to go through the golf course; nowadays you will follow the boundary of the course and again you will be walking on traditional stone paths. There is even a section that has only been rediscovered in the last few years. Continuing on your way through the mountains you will come across the well-preserved post town called Okute before then travelling along the ridge tops and descending into Ena. In Ena you can visit the museum known as the Hiroshiga, which features some wonderful prints of the Nakasendo Way.

Meals: B, D

DAY 3: ENA TO NAKATSUGAWA (12KM)

Today is a much shorter day, with gentle and undulating walking. You will pass through towns and villages and parts of the city, across rice paddies and fields and even through home gardens, talking to the locals along the way and taking in the Japanese culture. Nakatsugawa was number 45 of the 69 traditional post towns of the Nakasendo Way, and you can spend the rest of the day exploring. Many of the old buildings and shops still work today. Also worth a visit is the Naegi Castle ruins, located just north of the town.

Meals: B, D

DAY 4: NAKATSUGAWA TO TSUMAGO (16KM)

After leaving Nakatsugawa at the ancient Kosatsuba (official proclamation board) you will come across red torii gates just after Nakatsugawa Juku. There will be some steep slopes today before Ochiai and then you will be walking on an old cobblestoned way. It’s on this route that you will be walking up to the entrance of Magome, one of the highlights of the Nakasendo Way. Magome (Horse & Basket) is number 43 of the 69 post towns along the way to Edo (Tokyo). It truly is a reminder of how the post towns were in the Edo period (1603–1868).

The Nakasendo Way continues through the centre of Magome past the old shops and inns. The trail begins to climb up to the small settlement of Touge, and this is a good spot to take a rest break. You will then walk over the Magome Pass (800m) and slowly descend through peaceful woodland. You’ll hear the roar of the Odaki-Medaki waterfalls, which slowly fade as you pass streams and rice paddies coming into the old (smaller) village of O-Tsumago.

Leaving O-Tsumago, the trail climbs briefly before descending into the enchanting main village of Tsumago, (number 42 of the 69 post towns). The street is lined with traditional Japanese wooden houses, shops and ryokan (inns). You might want to stroll through the streets after dinner wearing a traditional yukata gown provided by your accommodation.

Meals: B, D

DAY 5: TSUMAGO TO KISO-FUKUSHIMA (19KM WALKING; 30KM TRAIN TRAVEL)

Leaving the old town of Tsumago at the ancient Kosatsuba (official proclamation board) you will see on the board the old wooden tablets which state that no Christianity can be practised. The trail ascends steeply up the valley then continues through the forest on what is known as the Yogawa Forest Route to Nojiri, passing through cedar forests and farmland. It is one of the most scenic sections of the walk. The forest walk joins the Kiso River as you descend into Nojiri. After a late lunch in Nojiri, make your way to the train station for a 40-minute ride to Kiso-Fukushima. Located halfway on the Nakasendo Way between Kyoto and Tokyo, Kiso-Fukushima was an important checkpoint during the Edo period.

Meals: B, D

DAY 6: TRAIN FROM KISO-FUKUSHIMA TO YABUHARA (14KM) & HIKE TO NARAI (8KM); TRAIN TO MATSUMOTO (22KM)

Today you will catch the train from Kiso-Fukushima to Yabuhara and start your final day’s walk of the Nakasendo Way, hiking up to the Torii Pass, named after the Shinto Torii Gate, which marks one of four protective sites surrounding Mount Ontake. At 1197m, the Torii Pass is a great vantage point for views of Mount Ontake on a clear day. The descent takes you along narrow mountain paths until you emerge at the outskirts of Narai, a lovely post town and the wealthiest of the post towns along the trail. Explore and relax in the cafes and shops of this well-preserved and atmospheric town.

After exploring Narai, you take a shotr train ride to Matsumoto, a beautiful town famous for its magnificent black castle, mountains and museums. Matsumoto Castle is one of the grandest and oldest castles in Japan. You can walk up the steep ancient wooden stairs to enjoy the views from the top floor. English-speaking volunteer guides offer free walking tours around the castle grounds.

Just across a small bridge on the way to the Castle is Nawata Street – a quirky frog-themed pedestrian street filled with plenty of little knick-knacks shops, perfect for quality souvenirs. Nakamachi Street is also worth exploring. It has retained its historic aesthetic and has abundant craft shops and cafes.

Also worth a look is the sleek Matsumoto City Museum of Art. It houses a variety of unique exhibitions, including a permanent display by contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, who is known for her extensive use of polka dots.

Meals: B

DAY 7: DEPART MATSUMOTO

Today is departure day. After breakfast, you can take the train to your next destination.

Meals: B

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Map

Explore

Mitake

Mitake was number 49 of the 69 post towns of the Nakasendo Way connecting Edo with Kyoto. It flourished with the passage of people, materials, information and culture, and was said to be one of the liveliest post towns in southeastern Gifu.

CLICK ON A PIN TO REVEAL INFORMATION ABOUT THAT LOCATION
Hosokute

Hosokute was first established in 1610 as a temporary post town between Okute-juku to the east and Mitake-juku to the west. It was originally built to alleviate the major congestion of travellers along this section of Nakasendo.

Ena

Ena was an important post town and the Edo heritage can still be seen today. The Hiroshige Museum of Art features some wonderful woodblock prints of the Nakasendo Way and is well worth a visit.

Nakatsugawa

Nakatsugawa was number 45 of the 69 traditional post towns of the Nakasendo Way. In the town’s narrow winding streets there are myriad well-preserved wooden buildings, residences and warehouses (kura). Worth a visit is the Naegi Castle ruins, located just north of the town.

Magome

Magome (Horse & Basket) was number 43 of the 69 post towns along the way to Edo (Tokyo). It truly is a reminder of how the post towns were in the Edo period.

Tsumago

The enchanting main village of Tsumago (number 42 of the 69 post towns) is lined with traditional Japanese wooden houses, shops and ryokan (inns). You might want to stroll through the streets after dinner wearing a traditional yukata gown provided by your accommodation.

Kiso-Fukushima

Kiso-Fukushima was one of the four security checkpoints during the Edo period and thus flourished as a political and economic centre in the Kiso Valley. The Kozenji-Temple houses the valley’s most famous temple and the largest stone garden in Japan.

Yabuhara

Yabuhara was number 35 of the 69 post towns and is located shortly before the Torii Pass (1197m), which offers great views of Mount Ontake on a clear day.

Narai

Lovely Narai was the wealthiest of the post towns along the trail. Explore and relax in the cafes and shops of this well-preserved and atmospheric town.

Matsumoto

This beautiful town of Matsumoto is famous for its magnificent black castle, mountains and museums and it’s just a short train ride from Narai or Shimosuwa. Matsumoto Castle is one of the grandest and oldest castles in Japan.  Nawata Street and Nakamachi Street are both worth exploring for crafts and cafes. Don’t miss the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which includes a permanent display by contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama.

Inclusions

Inclusions

Included
  • 5 nights in traditional Japanese guesthouses/inns (ryokan)
  • 1 night in a hotel
  • Daily meals (as listed in the itinerary)
  • Luggage transfers on your hiking days
  • Pre-tour briefing in Mitake
  • Local and Australian emergency contacts
  • RAW Travel’s exclusive interactive navigation app
Excluded
  • Flights
  • Local bus and train tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Beverages other than water at meals
  • Expenses and items of a personal nature
  • Lunches on all days (we have recommended places to eat)
RAW Travel App

Navigation

Finding your way

Finding your way along the Nakasendo Way (a route with not much English signage) has become a lot easier with our exclusive APP, which has all your trip information and route guidance in one handy place. You still need to be self-reliant with wayfinding. Knowing the daily distances, elevation changes and notable landmarks will enhance your navigation. Our app can pinpoint and confirm whether you’re still on the correct trail. Like with any phone app, it’s not intended to be used constantly as you walk. Read more about all the great features of the app and how to use it for navigation.

Nakasendo-Way-Destination-Guide-Cover

Exclusive Guide

get inspired

Ready to step back in time and discover a centuries-old road through the mountains of central Japan? The Nakasendo Way is a stunning 94km journey from Mitake to Narai. Steeped in history, much of this walk weaves through the picturesque Kiso Valley. The ‘post towns’ strung out along the route give an enticing and authentic glimpse into Japan’s past.

There is so much to discover on this route! Find out more in our comprehensive destination guide – it’s bursting with inspiration, travel essentials, practical information and more!

Download Now

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Nakasendo Way, Japan
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Exploring the narrow backstreets of Nakatsugawa on the Nakasendo Way
Nakasendo Way

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

A very nice walk, accommodation was better than expected – some hotels were brilliant. The food was a highlight. Varied walk, still a lot of cherry blossoms, really great hosts and the 9 of us got on really well.

Robert Galton, Toowoon Bay (NSW) - April 2024

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Unique and very enjoyable. My fellow walkers were great company. Loved the opportunity to see “real” Japan, experience traditional customs and lifestyles.

Trish Hayes, Manly (QLD) – April 2024

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

We were very well looked after. The pre-departure information and the overview from the guide were very helpful. The transfer of luggage was seamless. The accommodation and meals were wonderful. The entire experience was lovely except for the inclement weather. We really appreciated the lovely onsens at the end of each day.

Anna Talacko, Black Rock (VIC) – March 2024

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Wonderful walk through the Kiso Valley with its picturesque post towns. Loved the high standard of accommodation and the quality of food in the hotels.

Robert Hadler, Richmond (VIC) – November 2023

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Wonderful experience! Exceeded my expectations. The program was well designed and everything went to plan. RAW staff were very helpful and encouraging. Wonderful hosts and fantastic food. Great locations. Futons and Japanese pillows surprisingly comfortable. Onsens amazing!

Mary-Anne Sakkara, Bawley Point (NSW) – October 2023

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

A flawless experience. We enjoyed how traditional and authentic the accommodation was, and the solitude.

Kevin & Libby Manfield, Maroochydore (QLD) – October 2023

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

We had a most amazing experience. Japan is a beautiful country and walking on the Nakasendo Way was magical. It was easy to navigate our way along the trail. The Ryokan’s were authentic and the Japanese people were hospitable and delightful.

Elizabeth Ford, NSW – March 2019

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Wonderful experience. All of the accommodation was traditional – which I found so interesting. A chance to immerse myself into a small part of Japanese culture. Walking the Nakasendo Way was a step back in time.

Sandra Lynne Davidson, VIC – April 2019

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Our self-guided walk on the Nakasendo Way during autumn was awesome in every way! Beautiful scenery, accommodation, hosts, food and experiences. Degree of difficulty was as described. The walk left us all feeling completely relaxed and invigorated at the same time. Highly recommended.

Dianne Williamson, Newport (VIC) – November 2019

Customer Star Rating of 5   

Customer Testimonials

Loved the challenge of the trek and ‘the Japaneseness’ of the total experience. Very well organised, excellent communication.

Patricia Todd, Carine (WA) – November 2017

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TRIP date selection

when would you like to travel?

Please select your preferred dates for on-demand trips or select a scheduled date for group departures. If you have booked a self-guided trip please understand that because your trip date is on demand and we must check availability of all properties on your chosen dates before it can be fully confirmed

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dates
11/10/2025 - 17/10/2025
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$3,095
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27/10/2025 - 02/11/2025
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$3,095
single occupancy
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dates
10/11/2025 - 16/11/2025
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