Tsumago Travel Guide

Discover what to see, do, and eat in Tsumago, Japan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide that covers top attractions, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Tsumago

Nestled in the Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture, Tsumago is a well-preserved Edo-period post town that served as a rest stop along the ancient Nakasendo route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. Its traditional streetscape, historical buildings, and scenic surroundings make it a popular destination for those seeking a glimpse of Japan’s past. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and tranquil scenery are a testament to its rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world seeking to experience the traditions that shaped Japan today.

List of Places to Visit in Tsumago

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsumago-juku Honjin - a preserved inn used by feudal lords and other dignitaries during the Edo period.
  • Wakihonjin Museum - an adjacent museum to the Tsumago-juku Honjin that showcases displays on the culture and history of Tsumago.
  • Tsumago Castle Ruins - the ruins of a mountain fortress that was constructed in the 15th century by the warlord Takeda Shingen.
  • Kiso Ohashi - a beautiful old wooden bridge built over the Kiso River during the Edo period.
  • Kiso Fukushima Castle - a restored 16th-century mountain fortification located near Tsumago.

Natural Attractions of Tsumago: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Magome-toge Pass - a scenic mountain pass that connects Tsumago and Magome post towns.
  • Otaki Waterfall - a picturesque waterfall located upstream from Tsumago in the magnificent Kiso Valley.
  • Tashiro Pond - a serene shimmering body of water that reflects the surrounding mountains and autumn leaves.
  • Kaida Plateau - a scenic highland situated at the foot of the Southern Japan Alps, showcasing beautiful natural scenery and hiking opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsumago

Tsumago and the surrounding area are ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and walking. One of the most popular trails is the Nakasendo Trail between Tsumago and Magome post towns, which is a 7.8 km (4.8 mi) walk on a well-maintained path with spectacular scenery. Moreover, the Kaida Plateau has various hiking trails for all fitness levels, so be sure to visit it.

Best Things to Do in Tsumago: Activities and Tours

Whether you want to explore the town’s rich history, marvel at its natural beauty, or indulge in local cuisine, there’s plenty to do in Tsumago.

Activities

  • Sake Brewery Tour - learn about the traditional brewing process and taste locally produced sake at one of Tsumago’s sake breweries.
  • Traditional Workshops - participate in various workshops, such as calligraphy, pottery, and Japanese swordsmanship.
  • Cultural Events - experience traditional festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the Tsumago-juku Endurance Walks, which take place in May and November.

Tours

  • Nakasendo Walking Tours - join a guided or self-guided tour along the Nakasendo trail between Tsumago and Magome post towns.
  • Bus Tours - take a bus tour from Tsumago to the nearby historic towns of Matsumoto, Takayama or Shirakawa-go.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsumago

Day 1: Explore Tsumago-juku, including the Honjin and Wakihonjin Museum

Day 2: Hike the Nakasendo Trail to Magome

Day 3: Visit the Kaida Plateau for spectacular views

Day 4: Check out the Kiso Fukushima Castle

Day 5: Take a tour to Matsumoto

Day 6: Visit Takayama

Day 7: Go sake tasting and shopping for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Tsumago

Tsumago’s cuisine is rich in history and offers a wide variety of traditional dishes that reflect the town’s unique culture and heritage.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sansai Gohan - rice mixed with mountain vegetables such as mushrooms, ferns, and bamboo shoots is a specialty of the town.
  • Hoba Miso - a traditional dish that is made of grilled meat or vegetables mixed with miso (soybean paste) and wrapped in a large Hoba leaf.
  • Gohei Mochi - a skewered rice cake dish grilled with a miso and walnut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Sake - Tsumago is famous for its sake breweries, so don’t forget to taste the locally produced sake such as “Hana no Tani”.
  • Japanese Tea - try the locally grown tea that is perfect for relaxing.

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

  • Tsumago Hostel & Minshuku Nakadaya - a traditional guesthouse with tatami rooms and a warm hospitality.
  • Tsumago Misuzu-kan - a modern hotel in the center of the town with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Post Town Inn Koshinzuka - a restored former sake brewery turned into a fancy inn with rooms featuring private open-air baths.

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

  • Sake - take home a bottle of locally made sake as a memento of your trip.
  • Tsumago-yaki Pottery - buy some pottery with traditional designs and patterns made by local artisans.
  • Hoba Miso - bring home a package of Hoba Miso and try it out yourself.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsumago

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as bowing when greeting people.
  • Take off your shoes before entering a private home or ryokan (traditional Japanese inn).
  • Don’t litter, even if it seems like there are no trash cans around.
  • Treat the town’s historic sites and buildings with care and respect.

Best Time to Visit Tsumago

Tsumago is a beautiful destination year-round, but the autumn season is one of the best times to visit. The fall colors of the Kiso Valley usually reach their peak in early to mid-November, offering a truly stunning natural spectacle.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsumago

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its historical sites and museums.
  • Try the local cuisine and sake.
  • Enjoy the stunning natural scenery by hiking the Nakasendo trail or visiting the Kaida Plateau.

Don’t:

  • Ride bicycles on the Nakasendo Trail.
  • Be noisy or disrespectful around residential areas.
  • Venturing off trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsumago

Tsumago is a safe town, but visitors should be aware of the risk of natural hazards in the mountainous area, such as falling rocks or landslides. Avoid hiking alone and always let someone know your whereabouts.

Health in Tsumago

Tsumago is a peaceful town with clean air, refreshing hot springs, and healthy local cuisine, but visitors should still take standard precautions such as drinking bottled water, wearing sunscreen and insect repellant, and checking for tick bites when hiking.

Getting to Tsumago: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tsumago is located in the middle of Japan and is accessible by various means of transportation.

Airports Near Tsumago

The nearest airport is Narita International Airport in Tokyo. Then, take the Narita Express to Tokyo station, then take the Shinkansen to Nagoya Station. Finally, take the Limited Express Wide View Shinano to Nagiso and then a local bus to Tsumago.

Bus Stations Near Tsumago

The Kiso Valley area is connected by many bus services that allow visitors to get around the area with ease. It’s possible to catch a bus from Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo stations, and other cities. From Nagiso to Tsumago, take the local bus or taxi.

Other Options

Another convenient way to reach Tsumago is by train. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya station or take the Chuo Line to Matsumoto Station, and then switch to the local JR train to Nagiso station, where you can then take the bus to Tsumago.

How to Get Around in Tsumago

The town’s main attractions are within walking distance, but visitors can also rent bicycles or take a taxi if necessary.

Where to Go Next from Tsumago: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Magome Post Town - only a four-hour hike from Tsumago via the scenic Nakasendo Trail.
  • Matsumoto - historic castle city with traditional architecture and a vibrant arts scene.
  • Takayama - picturesque city with a well-preserved old town and a famous spring and autumn festival that draws large crowds.
  • Shirakawa-go - a beautifully preserved village with gassho-zukuri houses listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Tsumago is a magical town that offers a unique glimpse into the Edo period and Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you come for the history, the natural beauty, or the local cuisine, Tsumago is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. With this comprehensive guide at hand, you’re ready to plan the perfect trip to Tsumago.