Walk the Nakasendo SAMURAI Trail Through Tsumago and Magome — Japan’s Timeless Post Towns

The 8-kilometer stretch between Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku is widely regarded as the most scenic and atmospheric part of the historic Nakasendo Trail.

Known as the “Samurai Trail,” the Nakasendo was a major inland route connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Edo period, traveled by feudal lords, samurai, and merchants under the shogunate’s strict road system.

 These post towns in the Kiso Valley have been carefully preserved, with wooden inns, cobblestone paths, and a nostalgic charm that transports visitors back to that era.

At dusk, as the crowds fade and lanterns begin to glow, the quiet streets take on a magical ambience. Many travelers call this section of the Nakasendo the most unforgettable experience of their journey in Japan.

Hotel Kazenoyama: Your Ideal Base for Exploring Tsumago and Magome

Hotel Kazenoyama is a mountain resort nestled in the forested foothills of Iida City, Nagano Prefecture. Located about an hour by car from both Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku, it’s the perfect location for Nakasendo hikers who want convenience, nature, and quiet relaxation.

In fact, with the opening of the Misaka Smart Interchange on the Chuo Expressway scheduled for autumn 2025—connecting directly to the nearby Misaka Parking Area—travel time from the hotel to Magome-juku will be reduced to about 40 minutes by car, offering even more convenient access.

With only three spacious Western-style guest rooms, each featuring high ceilings, private terraces, and carefully curated interiors, the hotel provides a warm and intimate atmosphere. Step onto your balcony and listen to the gentle murmur of the river while gazing up at a sky full of stars — a rare experience in today’s light-filled world.

A standout highlight of your stay is dinner at the on-site French restaurant BERGWIND, which offers seasonal meals featuring wagyu beef, game meats, fresh local produce, and excellent wine. After dinner, enjoy an original cocktail or fine whiskey at the cozy bar inside the hotel.

Each morning at the restaurant, a chef-curated set breakfast is served. The menu (either Japanese or Western) changes daily and cannot be selected in advance, but the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients ensures a delightful start to the day.

Top Highlights on the Tsumago–Magome Nakasendo Trail

• Visit Tsumago in the early morning for peaceful, crowd-free photography 
• Hike through bamboo groves, forests, and past scenic waterfalls to Magome 
• Stroll the streets of Magome, exploring the historic bulletin board, souvenir shops, and traditional Japanese sweets 
• Return to Hotel Kazenoyama for an unforgettable French dinner at BERGWIND 
• After your meal, unwind in your private sauna and jacuzzi, then step out onto the terrace for breathtaking views of the starry night sky
  

Plan Your Nakasendo SAMURAI Trail Adventure from Nagano

A stay at Hotel Kazenoyama offers you the best of Nakasendo hiking, refined dining, stargazing, and the comfort of a secluded mountain hideaway. It’s an experience that blends history, nature, and hospitality in the heart of Japan.

＊ Make a Reservation at Hotel Kazenoyama
　TEL: +81-265-23-3437