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
- 8:30 Meet at the lobby of Onn Nakatsugawa, a hotel in Nakatsugawa Station city.
- 8:45 Purchase the post-tour Limited Express Shinano tickets together at Nakatsugawa Station.
- 9:10 Take the bus departing from Nakatsugawa Station to Magome.
- 9:35 After arranging to send luggage to Tsumago at the Magome tourist information center, start walking toward Tsumago.
- 13:20 Lunch at Otokichi in Tsumago.
- 14:20 Stroll around Tsumago. You purchased items such as folding fans at a souvenir shop. Received the luggage sent ahead at the tourist information center.
- 15:26 Take the bus to Nagiso Station.
- 15:55 See off boarding the Limited Express Shinano departing at 15:55. You are planning to go from Nagoya to Kyoto.
What Is a Private Walking Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The weather was fine and the walk went smoothly, but since many photos were taken, it took quite a long time. For lunch, we ordered a set meal of mountain-vegetable tempura and soba. The conversation flowed and we lingered for a while, though some food was left uneaten, so I am not sure whether the meal suited the guests' tastes. The guests enjoyed talking about politics, and we had a lively conversation about Donald Trump. We also took plenty of time for breaks along the way, so the schedule ended up tighter than expected, but the guests said it turned out to be just the right pace after all.
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 | In front of Nakatsugawa Station／Kitaena Kotsu～Magome／Kitaena Kotsu | 800JPY |
| Section 2 | Bus | Tsumago／Kitaena Kotsu～Nagiso Station／Kitaena Kotsu | 300JPY |
| Total | 1,100JPY | ||
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.