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
- 8:50 Meet at Nakatsugawa Station
- 9:10 Take the bus bound for Magome to Magome
- 9:40 Start walking from Magome toward Tsumago
- 12:50 Lunch at "Otokichi" in Tsumago After lunch, stroll around Tsumago
- 15:26 Take the bus to Nagiso Station
- 15:55 See off passengers boarding the Limited Express Shinano
Tour Itinerary in Detail
Over the course of the day the route took in Take the bus bound for Magome to Magome at 9:10, Start walking from Magome toward Tsumago at 9:40, Take the bus to Nagiso Station at 15:26 and See off passengers boarding the Limited Express Shinano at 15:55.
Travel between the sites was by public transport: Nakatsugawa to Magome／Kitaena Kotsu by bus (800JPY); Tsumago／Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture to Nagiso Station／Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture by bus (300JPY). Across 2 sections the fare came to 1,100JPY per person.
What Is a Private Nakasendo Walking Tour from Magome to Tsumago Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests walked at a very relaxed pace, stopping frequently to take many photos along the way. They had not been hiking for several years, so they wished to walk slowly. Since we had plenty of time, I was able to explain the notable spots carefully at each location. In Tsumago, we had time to spare, so at the end we could relax over a cup of coffee. Everything went smoothly, just as planned with a comfortable margin of time. Because we walked slowly, the guests said they were less tired than they had expected, which was a good outcome.
Click here for more details: Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Bus | Nakatsugawa～Magome／Kitaena Kotsu | 800JPY |
| Section 2 | Bus | Tsumago／Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nagiso Station／Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture | 300JPY |
| Total | 1,100JPY | ||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which places does this itinerary cover?
This tour visited Take the bus bound for Magome to Magome, Start walking from Magome toward Tsumago, Take the bus to Nagiso Station and See off passengers boarding the Limited Express Shinano.
How much did transport cost on this tour?
Public transport came to 1,100JPY per person across 2 sections. Transport fares are paid by the guests and are not included in the guiding fee.
Is the guide licensed, and what language is the tour in?
Taku is a government-licensed national guide-interpreter of Japan and guided this tour in English. Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.) works with more than 1,000 licensed guides across all 47 prefectures. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Can the itinerary be changed for my own trip?
Yes. This report describes one private tour as it actually ran. Every Gifu itinerary is built around the guests, so the places, the pace and the starting point can all be changed before the tour.
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.