Walk in the footsteps of an Edo-era traveler. Over four days, you'll explore preserved post towns and historic sites along the Tokaido Road and Nakasendo Road, two of the five great highways from Edo were the lifeblood of Japan's economy and culture.

History

Travel the Edo-era Highways

Follow the historic Tokaido Road and Nakasendo Road that flourished during the Edo period, explore the historic post towns along the way, and ascend the castle tower of Matsumoto Castle, preserved since the Edo period.

Culture

Relive the Culture and Spirit of Edo-era Travel

Walk the footsteps of Edo-era travelers and relive their spirit. Discover the unique character and scenic charm of each post town through the arts and crafts encountered along the way.

Food

Savor the Roadside Cuisine that Nourished Travelers

Discover the dishes that nourished travelers during the Edo era that are still served in historic post towns to this day. For a deeper experience, we recommend both tasting the local cuisine and experiencing hands-on cooking.

Daily Itinerary

Day1

1.Nihonbashi Station
2.Monument to the Origin of Nihonbashi
3.Oyama
4.Odawara
5.Hakone-Yumoto

Day2

6.Hakone-Yumoto Station
7.Hakone Sekisho & Lake Ashi Area
8.Kofu

Day3

9.Kofu
10.Narai-juku

Day4

11.Narai Station
12.Matsumoto Castle
13.Shinjuku Station

5,6

Day 1

Visiting the Tokaido Road and Pilgrimage Routes

Begin your journey at Nihonbashi, the start of the great Edo highways. Make a pilgrimage to sacred Mt. Oyama, explore the formidable Odawara Castle, and conclude your day relaxing in the famed hot springs of Hakone.

8:00 a.m.

Nihonbashi Station

1 minute

on foot

Google Route

8:05 a.m.

Monument to the Origin of Nihonbashi

Your journey begins at Nihonbashi, the historic heart of Japan’s road network. This bridge was the official starting point for all Five Routes, including the famed Tokaido Road. Many travelers of the Edo period set out from this spot. Near present-day Nihonbashi stands a monument commemorating its distinguished history.

Monument at Nihonbashi bridge commemorating its history.

Approx. 1 hour 25 minutes

10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Oyama

Embark on a journey to Mt. Oyama, following in the footsteps of pilgrims from the Edo period. On your ascent, you’ll pass through a charming, shop-lined path. Along the way, you’ll discover historic sites, including the Oyama Afuri Shrine and Oyama-dera Temple, as well as breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

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Local Highlights

Local Flavors, Crafts, and Stays

Be sure to enjoy the local specialty, Oyama tofu. While you’re exploring the area, consider picking up a unique souvenir such as handcrafted spinning tops. For a more immersive experience, you might also want to spend the night at a temple lodging.

Traditional Oyama Koma spinning tops with red and blue stripes.

Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes

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2:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Odawara

Discover the historic town of Odawara, located in western Kanagawa Prefecture. As a post town and castle town along the Tokaido Road, Odawara boasts several significant sites from the Edo period. Major attractions include Odawara Castle, traces of the post town’s past, the beautiful coastline, and easy access to Hakone’s hot springs and natural scenery.

Local Highlights

Local Cuisine and Gifts

Treat yourself to the exquisite Odawara kamaboko, a delightful fish cake that has been cherished since the Edo period. For a truly unique souvenir, don’t miss the chance to bring home the charming foldable Odawara lanterns, perfect for adding a touch of local culture to your collection.

A block of kamaboko (Japanese fish cake).

Approx. 30 minutes

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5:30 p.m.

Hakone-Yumoto

To cap off your day, relax in the renowned hot springs of Hakone. In addition to Hakone-Yumoto Onsen near Hakone-Yumoto Station, Hakone Town boasts several hot spring areas, so pick an inn based on its accessibility and distinctive qualities. Rest your body and mind, and recharge your energy for the next day of sightseeing.

Volcanic steam vents at Owakudani, Hakone.

Day 2

Experience History in the Great Outdoors of Hakone

Begin your day at the historic Hakone Checkpoint on scenic Lake Ashi. After exploring local crafts, journey inland to the mountain city of Kofu for a relaxing evening and a comforting feast of Hoto, a regional noodle stew.

8:30 a.m.

Hakone-Yumoto Station

Approx. 1 hour

9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Hakone Sekisho & Lake Ashi Area

Explore the Hakone Sekisho, a restored version of an important Edo-period checkpoint that once stood along the Tokaido Road. Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Ashi, visitors can also explore historical sites such as Hakone Shrine.

The reconstructed main gate of the Hakone Checkpoint with dark wood and a tiled roof, under an overcast sky.

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Local Highlights

While in Hakone, enjoy a traditional soba noodle meal, a favorite of travelers for centuries. For a unique souvenir, why not consider the region's famous beautiful "yosegi-zaiku" woodwork? For a hands-on experience, visit a local workshop to try making your own yosegi-zaiku craft.

A traditional Yosegi-zaiku (marquetry) box.

Approx. 4 hours

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6:00 p.m.

Kofu

Local Highlights

Settle in for the evening in Kofu, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture. Nestled in a scenic basin surrounded by mountains makes it the perfect place to rest. For dinner, be sure to savor Kofu's signature dish, Hoto. This comforting local meal consists of wide, flat noodles simmered in a rich miso-based broth with various seasonal vegetables.

Hoto (flat udon noodles and vegetables) in a hot pot.

Day 3

Admire the Beautiful Mountain Scenery on Your Way to Post Towns Along the Nakasendo Road

Delve into the rich samurai history of Kofu and its castle ruins before journeying to the beautifully preserved post town of Narai-juku on the Nakasendo Road to experience an overnight stay experience like that of past travelers.

9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Kofu

Visit the historic sites of Kofu, a city that flourished since the Sengoku period. The Kofu Castle remains, in particular, showcase Edo-period Kofu, with its superb stone walls as its most notable feature.

Local Highlights

Yamanashi Prefecture is renowned for its fruit. Be sure to try Koshu fruits, a selection of fruits that includes grapes, pears, peaches, and other fruits cultivated since the Edo period. These fruits are especially delicious when in season. Why not also try Kofu Tori Motsu-ni, a stew beloved by Kofu residents? If you're looking for a unique souvenir, consider Inden leather goods. Made from deer leather, these crafts are often used for wallets and pouches. Workshops are also available to create your very own custom Inden piece.

Approx. 2 hours

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2:15 p.m.

Narai-juku

Settle in for a memorable overnight stay in Narai-juku, a remarkably well-preserved post town on the historic Nakasendo Road. As evening falls, the main street becomes quiet, allowing you to fully appreciate the distinctive traditional buildings. Staying overnight allows you to experience the peaceful atmosphere of an Edo-era lodging hub.

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Local Highlights

"While exploring Narai-juku, be sure to try the famous local specialty, Gohei Mochi. This delicious snack consists of pounded rice cakes that are skewered, brushed with a sweet and savory miso-based sauce, and grilled over an open flame. It's the perfect treat to enjoy as you walk the historic streets. Enjoy the hearty, wholesome cuisine served at each inn for dinner."

Gohei mochi (grilled rice cakes) on skewers.

Day 4

A Visit to a Stately Castle Before Returning Home

Your journey concludes with a visit to the magnificent Matsumoto Castle. After exploring the historic castle town and savoring a final taste of Shinshu soba, you'll travel back to Edo.

9:15 a.m.

Narai Station

Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes

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11:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Matsumoto Castle

Explore the incredible Matsumoto Castle, home to a magnificent castle keep said to have been passed down from the 1590s. This iconic castle serves as the heart of the historic Matsumoto City, where you can wander through the charming Nakamachi Street, immerse yourself in the rich culture at the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum in the city’s suburbs.

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Local Highlights

While in Matsumoto, don’t miss the chance to savor Shinshu Soba, exquisite buckwheat noodles that are packed with flavor. You might also enjoy participating in a soba-making workshop, where, under the guidance of skilled artisans, you'll experience traditional soba-making techniques firsthand.