This Peaceful Hiking Route Has Been Walked by Samurais and Monks—and It’s an Amazing Way to See Japan’s Cherry Blossoms

For centuries, samurai, monks, and nobles journeyed between Kyoto and Tokyo along the Nakasendo—the 330-mile “road through the mountains.” Once bustling with foot traffic and feudal drama, this ancient trail is now a quiet ribbon winding through forested hills and rural hamlets, far from Japan’s well-trodden tourist paths.

Today, a new kind of traveler walks it—those seeking something slower, quieter, and more immersive. To follow the Nakasendo is to walk in the footsteps of merchants and warriors, poets and pilgrims—and to write your own story into its centuries-old landscape.

Walk Japan, a tour company known for its “off-the-beaten-path” routes through Japan, leads a remarkable 11-day, 10-night journey along the most scenic and storied stretches of the ancient trail. Their Nakasendo Way tour winds through remote countryside, over the Alps of Japan, and into time-preserved villages.

Along the way, travelers will learn about the role of the pathway in the Edo Period and the story behind important battles in Japanese history. And at the end of each day, walking shoes are removed and feet are elevated in traditional Japanese inns, which are renowned for their meals and care.

Walking Nakasendo Way is, quite simply, one of the most peaceful—and spectacular—ways to see Japan. It is a route that is renowned for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom along the trail between March and May. 

Although Nakasendo Way is an 11-day journey, Walk Japan is clear that it is a walk, not a trek. It is suitable for anyone who can walk for four to six hours in comfort. Transportation is available for those who need a rest day and baggage is sent ahead to the next destination each morning. Nakasendo Way was rated an Activity Level 3 and Technical Level 3 on a scale of 1–6 by Walk Japan, meaning participants should be able to walk between 6.2 miles to 16 miles (or four to six hours) each day. The route includes some short ascents and descents and takes place on a variety of paths, including pavement, loose gravel, and forest trails. Walking poles are recommended. 

Walk Japan’s Nakasendo Way is a small-group tour with a maximum of 12 participants and no minimum. It is available from March to June and again from September to November, but it’s best done in the spring, when the cherry blossoms bring an added touch of beauty and color.

In addition to Nakasendo Way, Walk Japan’s original route, the tour company offers over 38 guided and self-guided tours that weave through rural Japan, including the five-day Kiso Road walk, which is an abridged version of Nakasendo Way.

Pricing for the Nakasendo Way walking tour starts at 575,000 JPY (or just under $4,000 USD). More information on the route, as well as a map, can be found at nakasendoway.com.