Nakatsugawa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Nakatsugawa, a charming town located in Gifu, Chubu, Japan.


Introduction to Nakatsugawa

Nakatsugawa is a charming town located in Gifu, Chubu, Japan. The town is known for its beautiful nature, interesting cultural sites, delicious local cuisine, and friendly people. Nakatsugawa is situated in the heart of Japan, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

List of Places to Visit in Nakatsugawa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nakatsugawa is home to several museums and historical places that showcase the town’s rich history and culture.

  • Magome-juku

    Magome-juku was one of the fifty-three stations of the Tokaido, the road that connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period. The old town features original buildings, stone-paved alleys, and nostalgic atmosphere. You can also get a taste of local food, sake, and souvenirs while walking around.

  • Nakatsugawa Folk Museum

    The Nakatsugawa Folk Museum is an excellent place to learn about the town’s history and culture. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including traditional tools, household items, and folk art.

Natural Attractions of Nakatsugawa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nakatsugawa is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and scenic views.

  • Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku Trail

    The trail connects the two former post towns on the Nakasendo, an old road that linked Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) during the Edo period. You can enjoy a peaceful hike in a beautiful natural setting where cars are prohibited.

  • Ena Gorge

    Ena Gorge is a beautiful gorge located in the southern part of the town. The river running through the gorge is known for its clear water and scenic views. You can experience a different kind of beauty for each season, from refreshing green to snowy white.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nakatsugawa

Magome to Tsumago Trail

The Magome to Tsumago Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Japan. The trail runs for 8 kilometers and takes around 2-3 hours to complete on foot. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Cycling Routes

Nakatsugawa is also an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. There are several cycling routes in the area that offer beautiful views of the surrounding nature along the way.

Best Things to Do in Nakatsugawa: Activities and Tours

Sake Brewery Tours

Nakatsugawa is known for its high-quality sake. Visitors can take part in sake brewery tours and learn about the brewing process, as well as sample different types of sake.

Japanese Traditional Crafts Experience

Nakatsugawa is home to several traditional craftsmen who continue to make hand-crafted products using traditional techniques. Visitors interested in traditional crafts can take part in hands-on workshops and learn how to make their own pottery, woodenware or weaving.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nakatsugawa

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Nakatsugawa:

  • Day 1: Explore the historical post towns, Magome and Tsumago.
  • Day 2: Visit the Ena Gorge, a beautiful natural gorge located in the southern part of the town.
  • Day 3: Take a sake brewery tour and enjoy local delicacies.
  • Day 4: Visit the Nakatsugawa Folk Museum and learn about the town’s history and culture.
  • Day 5: Take a cycling tour around the town and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Day 6: Experience Japanese traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, or woodwork.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Kiso Valley or Inuyama Castle.

Food and Drink Scene of Nakatsugawa

Must-Try Dishes

Nakatsugawa is known for its unique local cuisine, some of which you must try:

  • Hida beef - A high-quality beef that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
  • Miso-nikomi udon - A hearty soup made with thick udon noodles, vegetables, and miso broth.
  • Gohei-mochi - Grilled mochi coated with sweet miso paste.

Local Beverages

Nakatsugawa is also famous for its sake. Some of the best sake breweries in the area include the Hida Takayama Brewery and the Kikuhime Sake Brewery. Apart from sake, you must also try the local plum wine.

Where to Stay in Nakatsugawa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nakatsugawa offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best choices include:

  • Magome Chaya

    Magome Chaya is a cozy guesthouse located in the heart of the town. The guesthouse offers traditional Japanese-style rooms and delicious homemade meals.

  • Oyado Koto No Yume

    Oyado Koto No Yume is a luxurious ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in a peaceful setting. The ryokan features beautiful Japanese-style rooms, hot springs, and elegant kaiseki cuisine.

What to Buy in Nakatsugawa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best things to buy in Nakatsugawa include:

  • Hida beef - You can buy Hida beef jerky or dried meat as a tasty souvenir of your trip.
  • Local sake - Take home a bottle of high-quality sake from Nakatsugawa’s best breweries.
  • Japanese traditional crafts - You can find a variety of handcrafted pottery, woodenware, and textiles in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Nakatsugawa

Nakatsugawa is rich in traditional culture and customs, such as:

  • Sake making - Sake has been an important part of Nakatsugawa’s culture for centuries. The town hosts an annual sake festival in October to celebrate the sake brewing season.
  • Japanese traditional crafts - Nakatsugawa is home to several traditional craftsmen who continue to make hand-crafted products using traditional techniques.
  • Post towns - The post towns of Magome and Tsumago have preserved their traditional architecture and offer a glimpse into Japan’s past.

Best Time to Visit Nakatsugawa

The best time to visit Nakatsugawa is in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nakatsugawa

Do:

  • Do take off your shoes when entering a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn).
  • Do try local food and sake.
  • Do respect the customs and traditions of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t speak too loudly in public places.
  • Don’t forget to try traditional crafts.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nakatsugawa

Nakatsugawa is a safe town, but visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Be cautious when hiking or cycling in the mountains.
  • For safety reasons, don’t walk on the main road when hiking between Magome and Tsumago
  • Beware of wild animals such as bears, monkeys or snakes that may be encountered in the nearby mountains

Health in Nakatsugawa

The tap water is safe to drink in Nakatsugawa. However, visitors should take precautions to prevent insect bites, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Nakatsugawa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nakatsugawa

The nearest airports to Nakatsugawa are:

  • Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) - Approximately 120 km away.
  • Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) - Approximately 250 km away.

Bus Stations Near Nakatsugawa

Nakatsugawa is connected to several major cities in Japan by bus, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Other Options

The town is located approximately 20 kilometers away from the nearest JR train station and at least 20-minute drive from Magome and Tsumago post towns.

How to Get Around in Nakatsugawa

The best way to get around Nakatsugawa is either by car, taxi or private transportation since public transportation is limited.

Where to Go Next from Nakatsugawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nakatsugawa is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Some of the best nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Kiso Valley - A picturesque valley located in Nagano Prefecture, famous for its post towns and hiking trails.
  • Inuyama Castle - A beautiful castle located in Inuyama, Aichi Prefecture.
  • Takayama - A charming town located in Gifu known for its historic streetscape and traditional crafts.

Conclusion

Nakatsugawa is a fantastic destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes, traditional culture, tasty cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, historical sites, or cultural experiences, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this charming town in Gifu, Chubu, Japan.

Naegi Castle Naegi Castle