This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 9:30 Met at Magome bus stop. The customer arrived by taxi from a hotel in Tsumago.
- 12:30 With clear skies and good trail conditions, we walked smoothly and arrived at the restaurant Otokichi in Tsumago, but it was full with a one-hour wait, so we didn't go in.
- After strolling around the town of Tsumago, I took them to another restaurant, but they said they weren't very hungry and would rather move on to the next inn early, so we went to Nagiso Station.
- 13:24 Took the bus from Tsumago to Nagiso Station. Had a light meal at a cafe in front of Nagiso Station.
- 14:25 Took the train from Nagiso to Nakatsugawa Station. Since the customer only had a small amount of cash, they couldn't buy a ticket to the next destination (Yoro via Ogaki) at the Nagiso Station window (which doesn't accept credit cards), so we went to Nakatsugawa Station. At the Nakatsugawa Station window, I guided them through the process of purchasing a ticket to Ogaki and a limited express ticket for the Chuo Line.
- 15:09 Saw them off as they headed to Nagoya on the limited express "Shinano" from Nakatsugawa, ending the tour. They were delighted when I wrote down on paper how to get to Yoro (transfer times and methods).
The guests walked slowly and took many photos. I followed their request to move on to the next accommodation earlier than planned. Since they were unsure about transferring at Nagoya Station and how to get from Ogaki Station to Yoro, I looked up the train times and wrote out the itinerary to Ogaki on paper, explaining both the option of taking a taxi from Ogaki and the option of taking the Yoro Railway to Yoro and calling the Hotel's pickup car. I also helped with purchasing tickets at the ticket window at Nakatsugawa Station, which the guests were very pleased about.
Click here for more details: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Bus | Tsumago / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nagiso Station / Kita-Ena Transportation | 300JPY |
| Section 2 | Train | Nagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nakatsugawa | 330JPY |
| Total | 630JPY | ||
Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.
I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.
It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.
Jul 14, 2026
wandahB6389XA
Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
The Nakasendo Trail: A beautiful blend of nature and culture.…
Jul 14, 2026
wandahB6389XA
Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
The Nakasendo Trail: A beautiful blend of nature and culture.
The Nakasendo Trail hike is a great blend of nature and culture. There are many beautiful views of forests, mountains, rivers and waterfalls along the trail. We encountered several traditional houses and Post towns reminiscent of the Edo period. Taku, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable and kind. He made sure we took plenty of breaks on a very hot and arduous hike. He also stayed late to accompany us when our train was substantially delayed. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone interested in exploring Japan outside of its big cities.
May 26, 2026
adamkO4340OC
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Great trail with a fantastic guide
Excellent experience with…
May 26, 2026
adamkO4340OC
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Great trail with a fantastic guide
Excellent experience with Taku who taught us so much about the area, took us to a great
restaurant and helped us on the trail!
May 18, 2026
rubia_k
Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Nakasendo Trail
Our guide Taku Hasegawa was so knowledgeable…
May 18, 2026
rubia_k
Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Nakasendo Trail
Our guide Taku Hasegawa was so knowledgeable and pointed out so many interesting
facts whilst we were hiking the Nakasendo trail. He made sure we had regular breaks on
what was an extremely hot day and the whole experience was really enjoyable.