Journey Through Time: Walking Japan’s Historic Nakasendo Road

Discovering the Nakasendo Road

The Nakasendo road, a historic route established in the 1600s, served as a vital link between Kyoto and Edo, now known as Tokyo. Originally created to facilitate trade and travel for military rulers, samurai, and warlords, this ancient path is still intact today. It offers a unique walking experience through central Japan, weaving through numerous post towns that have retained their historical charm.

A Walk Through History

Starting in Ena city, travelers can immerse themselves in the history of the Nakasendo road by visiting the Hiroshige Museum of Art. The museum showcases ukiyo-e woodblock prints from the 19th century, depicting scenes of travelers, teahouses, and bustling market towns. These prints provide a glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of life along this ancient highway.

As you walk along the Nakasendo road, you’ll encounter the atmospheric town of Ochiai, located on the outskirts of Nakatsugawa. Here, you can explore a ‘honjin,’ an inn that once provided refuge for traveling lords. The inn features unique architectural elements, such as secret escape windows and ceiling passages for ninjas, offering a fascinating insight into the precautions taken during the Edo period.

Experiencing Traditional Japan

Continuing the journey, travelers ascend to the Jikkoku Pass, where they can visit the Io-ji temple, dedicated to recovery from journeys. This section of the road includes a preserved stone pavement, allowing visitors to walk as Edo-era travelers once did. The path leads to the Shin Chaya inn, where you can enjoy tea, homemade plum wine, or spend the night in a traditional setting.

The road then takes you to the post town of Magome, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Kiso mountains. Here, visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of a long-journey pitstop, with restaurants offering panoramic views and roadside stalls serving local delicacies.

Staying in a Ryokan

To fully embrace the historic experience, consider staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Ryokan Ichikawa in Ena city has been welcoming guests for 400 years, offering a glimpse into the past with its tatami matting, futon beds, and communal bathing areas. Guests are treated to a seven-course meal, showcasing the culinary excellence of these traditional inns.

The journey along the Nakasendo road concludes in the pristinely preserved town of Tsumago, where modern intrusions are minimized to maintain its historical integrity. Walking this ancient route offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of Japan.