Tsumago

Tsumago (妻籠) is a historic post town located in the Kiso Valley of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It was an important stop on the Nakasendo, one of the five major routes of the Edo period, connecting Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, Tsumago has been meticulously preserved, showcasing traditional Japanese town life with its historic buildings and streets lined with classic wooden houses. The town enforces strict preservation laws that require buildings to maintain their original appearance and character.

Visitors can step back in time by walking along the Nakasendo trail, which is lined with traditional buildings such as inns, shops, the Waki-Honjin (a former government office and guesthouse for officials), the Kosatsuba (bulletin board), and the Masugata (a fortified entrance). The trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Visitors can delve deeper into the town’s history through various museums and exhibits, like the Machinami Museum.

Tsumago is also a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, hot springs, and scenic drives throughout the area. Visitors can hike to the neighboring post town of Magome, visit Ochiai-juku, the highest post town on the Nakasendo, or trek to the scenic Magome Pass between Tsumago and Magome. Various accommodations, including traditional ryokan inns and minshuku guesthouses, allow visitors to experience the unique atmosphere of this historical town.

Getting there

From Tokyo Station to Tsumagojuku:

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 ↓ Magome Line ↓ 24 minutes (17 stops) Omatabashi ↓ Walk about 7 minutes ↓ Tsumagojuku (Cost 14,500 yen)

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 264-57-3123
Address	Azuma, Nagiso, Kiso District, Nagano 399-5302
Official Website	https://tsumago.jp/