Begin your journey at Magome-juku, one of the post towns along the Nakasendo, a major highway from the Edo period connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. This important road was frequented by many travelers and merchants. Numerous post towns provided lodging and rest facilities for travelers.Upon arriving at Magome-juku, start your historical trail walking tour. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and traditional wooden buildings, fully immersing yourself in the historical atmosphere of these well-preserved post towns. Enjoy the various cafes and souvenir shops that line the slopes. Savor local delights like senbei (rice crackers), oyaki (stuffed buns), and gohei-mochi (skewered rice cakes), a specialty of Nakatsugawa. Continue your journey through the challenging terrain of the Kiso Road to reach Ochiai-juku, another charming post town. Here, take a moment to rest in the serene surroundings. Ochiai-juku features three historic temples where you can participate in cultural programs such as zazen (seated meditation), sutra copying, or tea ceremony experiences. If you still have energy, proceed to the next post town, Nakatsugawa-juku, fourished as a merchant town during the Edo period (1603-1868) and the old townscape. Many houses feature an architectural element called udatsu, which is designed to prevent fires from spreading and stands as a symbol of wealth. After a day of walking, rejuvenate in Nakatsugawa, surrounded by vast nature. Enjoy exquisite meals made with the bounty of the region and unwind in the soothing hot springs.

 

Overnight: Stay at Nakatsugawa Onsen Hotel Hanasarasa or similar accommodation.

Begin your day with a nostalgic journey through the echoes of samurai history, the serene beauty of rural Japan, and rich cultural experiences. Start your exploration at the historic Naegi Castle Ruins, where samurai once roamed. Soak in the panoramic views and let the remnants of this ancient stronghold transport you back in time. The stunning ruins of this mountaintop castle are a national treasure. The stone walls of Naegi Castle, incorporating massive, naturally occurring boulders into their construction, are quite unique among Japanese castles. Visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking glimpse of Nakatsugawa and the beautiful Ena Mountain. Experience the joy of making your own soba (buckwheat) noodles by hand and savor the delicious results of your culinary creation. Next, visit the Ena Iwamura Castle Ruins, steeped in samurai history. Wander through the ruins and imagine the battles that shaped this formidable fortress. Iwamura Castle, once governed by Oda Nobunaga's illustrious aunt, stands among Japan’s trio of most renowned mountaintop castles. Perched at 717 meters, it was the highest geographically located castle in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). Its lofty position made it a formidable stronghold, often shrouded in dense fog, earning the nickname "the misty castle." Though dismantled, the stone foundations endure, and the ruins remain celebrated as one of Japan’s 100 finest castles. The adjacent Iwamura castle town, with its long history, offers a nostalgic glimpse into what the area might have looked like in days gone by, preserving the essence of its storied past. The character of this town and its rural scenery has been carefully protected. Traditional buildings that reect the passage of time are meticulously preserved, and the historic sake brewery and local restaurants are bustling with activity. The locals welcome you with casual hospitality. Further afield, you will encounter rural scenery and traditional farm views. The charm of this town lies in its ability to showcase both the Japanese castle town and rural landscapes simultaneously, allowing visitors to "travel as if they were living there." 

 

Overnight: Stay at Oniiwa Onsen Ryozan or similar accommodation.