Hiking the Nakasendo Trail: Post Towns, Pit Stops and Where to Stay 🇯🇵 🌲

Tokyo and Kyoto are often at the top of people’s Japan itineraries. But they can be super crowded, particularly during the high season. For my most recent Japan trip, I chose to explore the lesser known Kiso Valley and surrounding region. Here’s what I recommend for a three day trip: 1️⃣ Magome to Tsumago This section of the famous Nakasendo Trail stretches almost 8km through the idyllic Japanese countryside. Begin and end your hike in two iconic post towns that are steeped in history. Between the towns, you’ll see waterfalls, tea houses, and pass through dense forest! To reach Magome, take the train from Nagoya to Nakatsugawa and transfer to a local bus. It’s well signposted and very tourist friendly. 2️⃣ Yabuhara to Narai Another popular hiking route on the Nakasendo Trail. This one is around 6km and links Yabuhara to Narai. Narai is one of the most beautiful towns in Japan showcasing so much Japanese history and culture. Both towns are easily reached by train from Nagoya via Nakatsugawa. 3️⃣ Nakatsugawa Due to a missed connection I ended up at this transfer point for longer than planned. After spending an hour strolling the quaint streets, I was glad I had the time here. It’s a peaceful town and a perfect place to grab a coffee and get ready for the hike ahead! 4️⃣ Nagoya City Many visitors to the Kiso Valley base themselves in Nagoya as it offers the most accommodation and dining options. After visiting Nagoya Castle, why not check out Osu Shotengai Shopping Street or the Ghibli Studios? Another fun option is to educate yourself on the Shinkansen at the Railway Museum! 🏨 Where to Stay: Nagoya City is a good base if visiting the Kiso Valley and I chose the Comfort Hotel Nagoya Shinkansenguchi. It’s close to Nagoya Station and it comes with a really tasty buffet breakfast! 🍱 Where to Eat: 🍣 Nigiri Sushi (Nagoya) 🍜 Ekimen-Dori Ramen ‘Street’ (Nagoya) ☕️ Good Day Coffee and Bar (Tsumago) 🍜 Tawara-ya (Tsumago) ☕️ Riverbed Coffee (Nakatsugawa) #travel #travelphotography #localguides #japan #japantrip #exploresgtogether #nagoya #inspiration #wanderlust #trip