Kiso Valley Nakasendo Trail
The Nakasendo is a historic highway running through the heart of Japan, utilized during the Edo Period (1603-1868) to travel between the former, imperial capital of Kyoto and the Tokugawa shogunate's newly installed seat of power in Edo (Tokyo). It spanned a distance of more than 530 kilometers and passed through a total of 69 post towns offering lodging and supplies. Though much of the route has been lost to modernization, some sections of restored trail, as well as a number of preserved post towns, still remain, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience Japan as it looked and felt centuries ago.
Connecting the hubs of Tokyo and Kyoto in Japan’s Edo Period, the Nakasendo Trail, or “Road through the central mountains,” played an important role for people traveling to and from the capital during this period. In modern times, the Nakasendo has become a way for locals and international visitors alike to transport themselves to the Edo Period, enjoying a combination of the trail’s rewarding hikes ranging from less strenuous walks to more challenging terrain, interspersed with charming post towns preserved to this day. The trail is an excellent way to experience the unique history and culture of the region.
A portion of the Nakasendo particularly suitable for outdoor activities is found in Central Japan’s Gifu and Nagano prefectures. Two of the most well-known and beautifully preserved post towns, Tsumago and Magome can be found here. Please discover Edo Period Japan on this Nakasendo trail.
Connecting the hubs of Tokyo and Kyoto in Japan’s Edo Period, the Nakasendo Trail, or “Road through the central mountains,” played an important role for people traveling to and from the capital during this period. In modern times, the Nakasendo has become a way for locals and international visitors alike to transport themselves to the Edo Period, enjoying a combination of the trail’s rewarding hikes ranging from less strenuous walks to more challenging terrain, interspersed with charming post towns preserved to this day. The trail is an excellent way to experience the unique history and culture of the region.
A portion of the Nakasendo particularly suitable for outdoor activities is found in Central Japan’s Gifu and Nagano prefectures. Two of the most well-known and beautifully preserved post towns, Tsumago and Magome can be found here. Please discover Edo Period Japan on this Nakasendo trail.
