From Nagoya: Embrace Rural Japan in Kiso Valley and Magome

Escape the bustling city of Nagoya and learn about the serene landscapes of the Kiso Valley. This comprehensive tour takes you on a journey through Japan’s rural heartland, where historic post-towns and castle ruins await. Discover the captivating tales of Iwamura-Jyoseki, where a female samurai lord once reigned, and indulge in a farm-to-table feast. Stroll the cobbled streets of Magome-juku, a well-preserved Nakasendo trail town, and soak in the timeless charm of this enchanting region. Whether you’re seeking cultural enlightenment or simply a respite from the urban pace, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Japan’s enchanting countryside.

Key Points

1. Discover the historic castle town of Iwamura-Jyoseki, known for its female samurai castle lord, and explore its Edo-era merchant residences and a 200-year-old sake brewery.

2. Enjoy a farm-to-table buffet lunch featuring locally-sourced, seasonal vegetables and traditional Japanese dishes in a tranquil countryside setting.

3. Enjoy the charming atmosphere of Magome-juku, a picturesque Nakasendo post-town, and browse its local shops and historic merchant/family residences.

4. Relax during the scenic bus rides through the Kiso Valley, taking in the countryside views on the 105-minute journeys to and from the first stop.

5. Experience the cultural highlights of this tour, including tasting regional specialties, learning about sake-making, and exploring the legacy of the female samurai castle lord.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Duration and Logistics

The tour duration is 9.5 hours, beginning at Nagoya Station‘s base of the silver clock tower. After a 105-minute bus ride, guests will enjoy a 2.75-hour guided tour and food tasting at Iwamura-Jyoseki.

A 1-hour buffet lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant follows. Then, the group will break, tour, and shop for 1.5 hours at Magome-juku (Nakasendo). The return to Nagoya Station takes 2 hours by bus. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation, lunch, sake tasting, and entry fees. Guests should dress comfortably and be at least 20 years old to participate in the sake tasting.

Departure From Nagoya Station

Guests depart Nagoya Station by bus for the 105-minute journey to their first stop. The bus takes them through the scenic countryside, offering glimpses of traditional Japanese landscapes.

Upon arrival, they’ll explore the historic castle town of Iwamura-Jyoseki, known for its female samurai castle lord. Here, they’ll embark on a guided tour and enjoy a food tasting, seeing the town’s rich history and culinary delights.

The tour then transitions to a farm-to-table restaurant for a buffet lunch, providing an opportunity to savor locally-sourced, freshly-prepared dishes. With full stomachs, the group continues on to the next destination, the Edo-era post-town of Magome-juku along the Nakasendo trail.

Guided Tour of Iwamura-Jyoseki

Arrival at the historic castle town of Iwamura-Jyoseki marks the start of the guided tour, where visitors learn about its renowned female samurai castle lord. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour explores Edo-era merchant and family residences, offering a glimpse into the town’s prosperous past.

Guests enjoy food tastings that showcase regional specialties. The highlight is a visit to a 200-year-old sake brewery, where they learn about the intricate process of sake making and have the opportunity to sample the local brews. The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and traditions deeply rooted in this historic castle town.

Buffet Lunch at Farm-to-Table Restaurant

After exploring the historic buildings and sampling regional specialties in Iwamura-Jyoseki, the tour group arrives at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant for a buffet lunch.

The spread features:

1. Locally-sourced, seasonal vegetables and farm-fresh produce.
2. Hearty rice dishes and savory protein options, such as grilled fish and braised pork.
3. Traditional Japanese side dishes, including pickled vegetables and miso soup.
4. A selection of seasonal desserts, like sweet azuki bean confections.

Theres some good the flavors of the Kiso Valley while enjoying the tranquil, rustic ambiance of the restaurant’s countryside setting.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Magome-juku (Nakasendo)

Leaving the hearty farm-to-table lunch behind, the tour group heads to the historic Nakasendo post-town of Magome-juku. Once a vital stop on the ancient Nakasendo trade route, this well-preserved village offers a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-era past.

Under the guidance of the English-speaking tour guide, guests wander the cobblestone streets, admiring the traditional merchant and family residences. The tour includes time for exploring the town and browsing local shops, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and purchase crafts or snacks.

With 1.5 hours allotted, guests can leisurely savor the unique charm of this picturesque Nakasendo post-town before the journey back to Nagoya.

Return to Nagoya Station

With the visit to the historic Nakasendo post-town of Magome-juku now complete, the tour group boards the bus for the 2-hour journey back to Nagoya Station. The comfortable ride allows time to reflect on the day’s experiences:

1. Exploring the castle town famed for its female samurai lord.
2. Tasting delicious sake at the 200-year-old brewery.
3. Enjoying a fresh, farm-to-table buffet lunch.
4. Browsing the charming shops and historic merchant residences of Magome-juku.

As the bus pulls into Nagoya Station, the group bids farewell to their knowledgeable guide, feeling enriched by this immersive glimpse into rural Japan.

Seasonal Considerations and Attire

Depending on the season, visitors must prepare appropriately for the Kiso Valley and Magome tour. During the summer, the weather is hot and humid, so wearing light and airy clothing, bringing a parasol, and using sun protection are recommended.

In winter, the temperatures can be quite cold, so warm clothing and sturdy footwear are essential. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves exploring historic towns and walking through scenic landscapes. Guests should also keep in mind that those under 20 years of age aren’t permitted to partake in the sake tasting portion of the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour package is priced from KRW 55,433 per person. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexible booking policy allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence:

1. Reserve now and pay later.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
3. Prices start from KRW 55,433 per person.
4. Secure your spot without the need to pay upfront.

This convenient booking process and generous cancellation policy make it easy for visitors to embrace the rural charm of Kiso Valley and Magome without hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children under 20 are not permitted to participate in this tour, as it includes an alcohol tasting. The tour is tailored for adult guests only and requires participants to be at least 20 years old to drink.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with severe mobility issues. It involves over 2 hours of bus travel and walking tours through historical sites with uneven terrain. However, guests can discuss any special needs when booking.

What Languages Are Available for the Tour?

The tour provides an English-speaking guide. However, other language options may not be available. Guests should inquire about language availability when booking the tour to ensure their needs are met.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price of ￥55,433 per person is a fixed rate regardless of age or student status.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from 10 to 25 people. The exact number may vary depending on demand and availability, but the small group size allows for a more intimate and personalized experience throughout the tour.

Recap

This comprehensive tour from Nagoya allows visitors to enjoy the historic Kiso Valley and the picturesque Magome-juku post-town. Highlights include a guided tour of Iwamura-Jyoseki, a farm-to-table buffet lunch, and ample time to explore the charming cobblestone streets and traditional merchant residences of Magome-juku. The 9.5-hour journey offers scenic countryside views, sake tasting, and a chance to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of rural Japan.

You can check if your dates are available here: