Nagano > Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿): A trip to Japan in the Edo period
※Description:
Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿), located in Nagano Prefecture (長野県), is one of the most iconic stops on the ancient Nakasendo (中山道) route, which connected Kyoto and Edo (present-day Tokyo). Surrounded by mountains and crossed by crystal-clear rivers, this historic town offers a picturesque landscape that evokes traditional Japan at its best.
Preserved as an open-air museum, Tsumago-juku is famous for its cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses and an atmosphere that transports visitors back to the Edo period. The local government and its inhabitants have put great effort into preserving the authenticity of the place, banning visible modern constructions and hiding electrical wires.
The town is located in a quiet valley, ideal for those looking for a respite from the urban bustle. The region is especially popular during spring, when cherry trees are in bloom, and in autumn, when maple leaves paint the landscape in warm tones. A visit to Tsumago-juku is not complete without exploring its highlights, such as the old honjin, a historic lodging reserved for samurai and daimyo, and the small shops offering local sweets and crafts.
The hike from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku (馬籠宿) is one of the most recommended activities, an 8-kilometer trail that passes through forests, streams and small villages, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature while reliving the experience of travelers of yesteryear.
After visiting the village, we invite you to eat the typical food Oyaki (おやき), breads with meat or vegetables inside.
Despite its growing popularity, Tsumago-juku maintains a serene and authentic atmosphere, being a A must-see for lovers of history, nature and Japanese culture
※NTRanking: 8.0 / 10
Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿) is one of the most popular destinations for lovers of Japanese history and traditional culture. Although it is a well-known and popular place, especially among Japanese and foreign tourists interested in the Nakasendo, its quiet and well-kept atmosphere distinguishes it from other more crowded attractions.
It is also worth noting that access to the town is relatively easy by public transport or car.
※How to Get There
・From Nagoya (approximately 2 hours):
Take the JR Chuo Line from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅).
Get off at Nakatsugawa Station (中津川駅), which takes approximately 50 minutes.
From Nakatsugawa, take the local bus to Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿). The journey takes about 30 minutes.
・From Nagano (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes):
Take the JR Shinano Line from Nagano Station (長野駅).
Get off at the Nakatsugawa station (中津川駅), a journey time of approximately 2 hours.
From Nakatsugawa, take the local bus to Tsumago-juku< /strong> (妻籠宿). The tour takes about 30 minutes.
※Address:
2178-10 Azuma, Nagiso, Kiso District, Nagano 399-5302
