Scenic Day Trip Bus Tour: Kokeizan Eiho-ji Temple, Enakyo Gorge, Old Post Towns of Magome, & Tsumago | Gifu, Japan

Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku are celebrated for their remarkably preserved Edo-period townscapes along the ancient Nakasendo Trail. Magome-juku features a charming uphill slope with traditional buildings, while Tsumago-juku is particularly notable for its strict preservation policies, which prohibit power lines and modern intrusions, offering an authentic glimpse into feudal Japan. Both towns provide visitors with a rich sense of history, traditional architecture, and cultural insights.

At Enakyo Gorge, visitors can admire the breathtaking natural beauty of the gorge from an observatory, especially next to the iconic red Ena Gorge Bridge. The area is perfect for photography, capturing the dramatic rock formations and the serene river below. There are also opportunities to take scenic boat cruises on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the gorge's cliffs and forested surroundings.

The most recommended route for walking between Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku is to start from Magome-juku and walk towards Tsumago-juku. This direction is generally preferred because Magome is at a higher elevation, making the walk mostly downhill or flat, which is less strenuous. The path, part of the ancient Nakasendo Trail, guides you through picturesque forests, past waterfalls, and through small hamlets.

The walk between Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku covers approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles). Most visitors find that it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete the journey, depending on their pace and how often they stop to admire the scenery, take photos, or rest at the traditional tea houses along the trail.

Walking from Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku is generally considered easier because Magome is located at a higher altitude, resulting in a predominantly downhill or relatively flat path. This offers a more relaxed hiking experience. Conversely, walking from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku involves a more significant uphill climb, requiring greater physical exertion. Most travelers prefer the Magome to Tsumago direction for comfort.

Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku can be accessed by public transport, typically involving a train ride to nearby stations like Nakatsugawa or Nagiso, followed by a local bus. However, for a streamlined and hassle-free experience, joining a convenient bus tour is highly recommended. Such tours provide direct transportation, allowing visitors to avoid complex transfers and fully immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of these post towns and the natural beauty of the Ena region.

Visiting Magome-juku, Tsumago-juku, and Enakyo Gorge on a convenient bus tour offers several advantages. It eliminates the complexities and stress of navigating public transportation, especially in rural areas, saving valuable travel time. A bus tour provides comfortable transport directly between attractions, ensuring a smooth and efficient itinerary, allowing you to fully enjoy the historical townscapes and natural landscapes without worrying about logistics.

Kokeizan Eiho-ji Temple is a significant stop due to its historical importance as a Zen Buddhist temple and its serene, picturesque setting. Founded in the 14th century, it features exquisite architecture and a beautiful Japanese garden, especially known for its moss and autumn maple trees. Its tranquil atmosphere by the Toki River offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into traditional Japanese spiritual culture, making it a valuable addition to a Gifu exploration.