The Nakasendo Trail (Karuizawa-Tsumago)

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

The Nakasendo Trail (Karuizawa-Tsumago)

An expedition that ties the stylish air of Karuizawa to the old-world flair of Tsumago.

3.95 1

Last update :

The Nakasendo Trail stretches east to west across Nagano Prefecture. During the Edo period, it connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto, serving as a vital route for travelers and merchants. The section between Karuizawa and Tsumago is especially scenic, offering a mix of breathtaking natural landscapes and beautifully preserved historic towns.

Karuizawa, a world-famous summer retreat loved by writers and cultural figures, is known for its stylish cafés, boutiques, museums, and sports facilities, making it a vibrant and sophisticated town. In contrast, Tsumago retains the honest old-world goodness of an Edo-period post town, with rows of traditional wooden buildings that evoke the feeling of stepping back in time.

Along the way, you can savor local specialties such as handmade soba noodles and gohei-mochi-chewy rice cakes brushed with sweet-savory miso or soy sauce and grilled over charcoal. For souvenirs, look out for Kiso lacquerware or locally brewed sake from historic breweries along the Nakasendo, both perfect mementos of your journey.

Highlights

  • One of the historic routes that connected Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Edo period.
  • Filled with scenic natural landscapes and numerous historical landmarks.
  • Along the way, you’ll find plenty of memorable spots offering local cuisine and traditional crafts.

Photos

  • Mampei Hotel, where John Lennon once stayed.

    Mampei Hotel, where John Lennon once stayed.

  • Narai-juku, one of the most popular post towns where travelers once rested.

    Narai-juku, one of the most popular post towns where travelers once rested.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Are foreign-language pamphlets or information boards available? If yes, which languages?

A

English and other foreign-language pamphlets are available at tourist information centers along the Nakasendo route, though availability may vary by location. English information boards are also installed at key points along the Nakasendo, such as major landmarks and intersections.
Reference:
Nakasendo Walking Map (English)
Kisoji (Magome-Tsumago-Shiojiri)
Eastern Shinshu (Wada Pass-Karuizawa)

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

Some tourist information centers and roadside stations along the Nakasendo offer free Wi-Fi, but coverage is limited.

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • The short hike from Tsumago to Magome was super relaxing. The forest scenery along the way was absolutely gorgeous, and the shop owners were all really friendly. There's this laid-back, old-town vibe that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy it.

Details

Name in Japanese
中山道 (軽井沢〜妻籠)
Telephone
026-219-5271(Nagano Tourism Organization)
Address
Karuizawamachi, Nagano to Azuma, Nagisomachi, Nagano
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Access
For Karuizawa, get off at JR/Shinano Railway Karuizawa Station.
For Tsumago, get off at JR Nagiso Station.
Official Website
Official Website (English)