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
- 09:30 Meet up @ Nakatsugawa Station
- 09:55 Board the bus (Nakatsugawa Station → Magome)
- 10:20 Arrive at Magome & start trekking
- 11:00 Lunch @ Juri
- 13:00 Arrive at Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse
- 13:30 Arrive at Odaki & Medaki Falls
- 14:30 Arrive at Tsumago-juku
- 16:10 Disband on the train bound for Nagoya
What Is the Nakasendo Magome-to-Tsumago Trek Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were visitors from North America. Since they were interested in Japanese history and samurai, we trekked while I mainly talked about Japanese history related to the samurai. The start time was moved one hour earlier at the guests' request. In Magome, we enjoyed a tasting at a sake shop and had a pleasant conversation with the owner. We had lunch at a restaurant. After enjoying the Ichikokutochi Tateba Chaya rest house, Odaki Falls, and Medaki Falls, we arrived at Tsumago-juku. The guests had ice cream at a cafe, then boarded the train departing from Nagiso Station, where we parted ways inside the train. They enjoyed both the history and the nature, and were very satisfied.
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 | Nakatsugawa Station Front / Kitaena Kotsu～Magome / Kitaena Kotsu | 800JPY |
| Section 2 | Bus | Tsumago / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture | 300JPY |
| Section 3 | Other | Nagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nakatsugawa Station Front / Kitaena Kotsu | 660JPY |
| Total | 1,760JPY | ||
Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.
With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.
I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.
Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.
My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.
Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!
Jul 14, 2025
wuschaefer
A wonderful hike with stunning views
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a…
Jul 14, 2025
wuschaefer
A wonderful hike with stunning views
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a lovely day hiking with Yoshi. He was there waiting for us at Nakatsugawa station. He is very friendly and knowledgeable about samurai history as well as other aspects of Japanese history and culture. The hike was lovely, we lucked out with the weather and the views were magnificent. It was a good break from city tourism to experience the countryside. I definitely recommend doing this activity, and Yoshi is a fantastic guide!
Jul 11, 2025
cindydZ5063DM
Amazing
Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…
Jul 11, 2025
cindydZ5063DM
Amazing
Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day in Nagoya was wonderful with
Yoshi showed me the most beautiful and historical places. Highly recommend him for your
tour guide
Jul 8, 2025
Amanda_P
Nagoya
Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…
Jul 8, 2025
Amanda_P
Nagoya
Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away after booking and answered all my questions to help design a personalized itinerary. We were able to see everything we wanted to see!!! Yoshi explained everything in detail and was full of intriguing information. My son enjoyed asking him many questions and Yoshi was happy to answer all of them! I would highly recommend this tour and Yoshi!!!
Jul 4, 2025
844roryb
Nakasendo day hike
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Amazing walk along an ancient route…
Jul 4, 2025
844roryb
Nakasendo day hike
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Amazing walk along an ancient route between 2 post towns, with stunning scenery. My guide, Yoshi, was an excellent host with a wealth of knowledge on the history and food of Japan and the area. He recommended a really traditional restaurant for lunch, which served tasty local food. Yoshi’s expertise is highly recommended! I cannot thank him enough for making it an enjoyable hike. Arigato gozaimasu Yoshi.