Nakasendo Walking Trail

The Nakasendo Way or 'the road through the central mountains' was one of the five major highways linking Tokyo to the provinces in ancient Japan and today provides is an incredible and unique way to experience the country, walking the most beautiful part of the original route from Tokyo to Kyoto.

Along the way after days soaking up the incredible scenery and beautiful villages you are welcomed at night with stunning Japanese hospitality at small Minshukus and Ryokans (guesthouses). The trail weaves through the mountain valleys found between Tokyo and Kyoto along paved village walkways and forested mountain trails.

The walk is self guided giving you complete freedom on pace, so that you can enjoy your surroundings at your own speed. The trail varies, taking you through forests of bamboo and Japanese cedar to picturesque mountain towns. In order to experience the very best that the trail as to offer along the most beautiful sections there will be a few train transfers which equally are an iconic Japanese experience.

The Ryokans, traditional Japanese Inns, where you will stay along the way are the height of Japanese hospitality with faultless and gentle service. Each night you will be warmly welcomed at these family run establishments and served delicious traditional Japanese cuisine using only the finest and freshest of ingredients. The style of the Ryokans are simple and traditional but wonderfully comfortable.

As the walk is self guided you will you be provided with all your necessary train tickets prior to setting off along with a detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking instructions including a topographical map.