This man welcomes those who walk along the ancient trail.

This man welcomes those who walk along the ancient trail. (Photo: Sandra Isaka)

Magome to Tsumago

Walk the Kiso Valley's ancient Nakasendo

Sandra Isaka Aug 20, 2013 - 1 min read

This man welcomes those who walk along the ancient trail.

Leaving Magome, the view behind.

The path heads into the forest.

Walk past farms and homes along the route.

A rest stop for weary travelers

Along the path are two waterfalls, this is O-taki (male waterfall).

Me-taki, (Female waterfall)

The trail meanders past lovely rice fields.

Stone Buddhist statues help you find your way.

Heading downhill into Tsumago

For anyone interested in Japanese history, a visit to the Kiso Valley, and especially the post towns of Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku, is highly recommended. For those with time, the 8 kilometer hike between the two towns is a must. Start at Magome (elevation 600m) and make your way past farmland, forests and even waterfalls on your journey to Tsumago (420m). To commemorate the journey, pick up a 'Starting Point Ticket' at the Tourist Information Center (TIC) and show it at the other end's TIC for a cypress 'Certificate of Completion'—a nice memento of the visit.

Sandra Isaka

Sandra Isaka @sandra.isaka

As an intercultural consultant & Japan travel specialist with 20 years in Japan, I love sharing my favorite places with others.