Magome

Magome (馬籠) is a small, well-preserved post town located in the Kiso Valley of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It was once a key stop on the ancient Nakasendo trade route between Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period (1603-1868). The town features traditional Japanese architecture, including wooden buildings with thatched roofs, cobbled streets, and historic landmarks such as the Magome-juku Honjin (the former headman’s residence) and the Magome Toson Memorial Museum.

Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, Magome is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the scenic Magome Pass, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The town is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience a glimpse of old Japan and enjoy hiking and exploring the local countryside.

Magome is also the birthplace of novelist and poet Shimazaki Toson, and visitors can explore his former home and the memorial museum dedicated to his life and work.

In recent years, Magome has become increasingly popular among hikers and walkers, as it is part of the Nakasendo Trail, a historic trail that leads to the neighboring town of Tsumago in Nagano Prefecture. The trail passes through scenic countryside and offers stunning views of the Kiso Valley.

Getting there

From Tokyo Station to Magomejuku:

Shinkansen and Bus

Tokyo Station ↓ Tokaido Shinkansen ↓ 1 hour 36 minutes (3 stops) Nagoya Station ↓ Walk about 8 minutes ↓ Meitetsu Bus Center ↓ Shinnan Kotsu ↓ 1 hour 28 minutes (6 stops) Chuodo Magome ↓ Walk about 19 minutes ↓ Magomejuku (Cost 13,900 yen)

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 573-69-2336
Address	Magome, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0502
Official Website	https://kiso-magome.com/