Enjoy a comfortable journey on the Limited Express Azusa! Easily accessible by bus: A romantic day trip along the Nakasendo route to Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku [Departing from Shinjuku]

Access to Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku often involves a combination of train and bus. From major cities, comfortable travel can be achieved by taking a Limited Express Azusa train. Upon reaching a nearby station, a local bus service provides easy and convenient access directly to these historical post towns, ensuring a smooth transition for visitors.

The walking path between Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku, a scenic section of the historic Nakasendo trail, is approximately 8 kilometers long. This journey typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent exploring the charming points of interest along the way, such as waterfalls and tea houses.

Tsumago-juku is highly significant for its role as a well-preserved post town along the ancient Nakasendo route during the Edo period. Visitors can expect to see a townscape that strongly retains the atmosphere of that era, with traditional wooden buildings, narrow streets, and an absence of modern intrusions, offering an authentic glimpse into Japan's past.

Magome-juku is renowned for its picturesque, stone-paved slope and excellent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the charming post town, exploring traditional shops, cafes, and museums that dot the hillside. Its elevated location offers beautiful photo opportunities and a refreshing atmosphere for a historical walk.

While encounters are rare, Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku are situated in a natural environment where wildlife, including bears, may occasionally be present. It is advisable to stay on marked paths, make noise while walking to alert animals to your presence, and consider carrying a bear bell, especially if venturing into quieter sections of the trail.

A visit to Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku offers a vivid journey back in time to the Edo period. Both post towns have meticulously preserved their historical architecture and streetscapes, ensuring that power lines are hidden and modern vehicles are limited. Walking their stone-paved paths and observing the traditional wooden buildings creates an immersive sense of stepping into a bygone era of feudal Japan.

Tsumago-juku is distinguished by its pioneering and strict preservation policies, enacted by its residents. These policies ensure that the town's traditional Edo-period appearance remains intact by prohibiting visible power lines and limiting vehicle traffic. This commitment allows the authentic wooden inns, shops, and residences to reflect the historical design and lifestyle of the era.

Yes, the tour includes a meal. Visitors will be provided with a mini sauce katsu bento, offering a convenient and local dining experience during their exploration of the historical post towns. This allows travelers to enjoy a pre-arranged meal without interrupting their sightseeing in Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku.