Nakasendo Trail Winter Tour

Winter is a fantastic season to visit Japan. Winter in Japan offers must-see sites blanketed in snow, savory seasonal dishes, and a list of winter activities for every traveler. Japan's winter season is vast depending on the region, but each are unique in beauty. Snow does not fall often in the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, but if you are lucky enough, being able to see Kyoto’s Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion covered by fresh snowfall is a scene that is truly breathtaking. Snow falls deeply further down the mountains and towards the Japan Sea coast. The winter landscapes of the traditional wooden villages of Magome and Tsumago against a backdrop of snowfall is something truly enchanting. Whether it be rejuvenating yourself in the warmth of a steaming- hot Japanese bath after a day outside, or sitting in an outdoor Rotemburo thermal water pool while the snowflakes flow gently through the air around you, there are so many reasons to choose winter for your walking adventure in Japan. There are fewer visitors, special seasonal foods, the absolutely beautiful illumination of some gardens, and many temples and shrines.

The Nakasendo trial connected Kyoto to Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, during Japan’s feudal period. As opposed to the Tokaido route, which spanned the Pacific coast, the Nakasendo Trail was known as the ‘road through the mountains’ which was traveled by feudal lords along with their retinues, samurai, merchants, and travelers. Along the route were 69 ‘post towns’ where tired travelers would rest before continuing onto their travels. Spending five days walking on the best parts of the trail, we will be able to enjoy the peace and serenity of the winter landscapes. Depending on how deep the snow is, we may use our snowshoes to follow the route. We will walk along quiet village roads as well as unpaved hill trails through the scenic Kiso Valley where we will have the opportunity to see some beautifully preserved old villages. We will stay overnight in traditional country inns and enjoy delectably warming regional cuisine prepared from the freshest ingredients. Soak in natural thermal hot springs and enjoy the warm hospitiality of our hosts. There is nothing like ending our day of walking on the snowy trails like ending it with a Japanese bath.