Nakasendo, Kiso Valley. Photograph: David Chen Japan · Walking
Nakasendo, shoulder season Ten days on the old inland road, Magome to the Kyoto basin, before the maples are a crowd.
10 days Group of 8 From €5,120 Late October Walking
We walk sections of the Nakasendo when the post towns still have rooms and the cedar forests are quiet. Luggage goes by road. You walk with a daypack. Nights are in family inns that serve one dinner, at one time, and expect you to be on time. Callum has walked this road in three seasons; this departure is the one he prefers.
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The days
Itinerary Day 01 Tokyo, evening only Arrive. One night near Tokyo Station. We eat nearby and sleep early.
Day 02 To Magome Shinkansen, then a local line. Afternoon acclimatising walk through the post town.
Day 03 Magome to Tsumago The classic stage, done slowly, with tea at the halfway house if it is open.
Day 04 Tsumago rest A short ridge walk or a morning in the temple. Luggage stays put.
Day 05 Nagiso to Kiso-Fukushima A working town, a proper bath, a dinner that is not performance.
Day 06 Narai The longest preserved street. We stay in a house that still has a noren on the door.
Day 07 Torii Pass Up and over. The view is not guaranteed. The forest is.
Day 08 To Kyoto Train afternoon. Evening in a neighbourhood inn, not a riverside hotel.
Day 09 Kyoto basin walk Fushimi to the quieter side of the Higashiyama if the crowds allow; otherwise the canal paths north.
Day 10 Depart Kansai or Tokyo connections. We stay with you until the station.
Included
Nine nights in inns and one city hotel Breakfasts and eight dinners Luggage transfers on walking days Rail passes as required for the route Bilingual walking host Not included
Long-haul flights Lunches Onsen extras Personal rail beyond the itinerary From €5,120 per person. Fitness: Daily walking 10 to 16 km on stone, root, and tarmac. Some climbs.
Along the way
Su San Lee Sorasak Manuel Cosentino Before you pack
01 A light pack is enough. We move bags for you.
02 Tatami rooms. If stairs or futons are a problem, tell us before you book.
03 October rain is ordinary. Bring a serious shell.
