Nakasendo Pilgrimage Tradition

The pilgrimage section of the Nakasendo passing through Kiso Valley, Nagano Prefecture. Edo-period post-town culture remains well-preserved, with Tsumago and Magome inns being particularly famous. Known for maintaining historic streetscapes, it offers a walking pilgrimage through well-preserved structures. Spring blossoms and autumn foliage attract numerous pilgrims seasonally.

One of the five major Edo-period highways, connecting Edo (Tokyo) to Kyoto over approximately 540 kilometers. Now developed as a 1,020-kilometer hiking course, with preserved post towns, particularly Tsumago and Magome in Nagano Prefecture. Attracting approximately 500,000 visitors annually, it is an important tourism route offering authentic Edo-period culture and landscapes.

The Nakasendo route connecting Edo and Kyoto served not only pilgrims but merchants and travelers. Included pilgrimages to Suwa faith sites in Shinshu and numerous shrines/temples in Mino Province. Historic post towns like Tsumago and Magome remain, allowing experience of Edo-period travel culture. Many still walk this route today, exemplifying the historical relationship between pilgrimage and travel in Japan.

The most scenic section of the Nakasendo route through Kiso Valley, Nagano Prefecture. Eleven post towns remain, preserving Edo-period landscapes. The mountain pass between Tsumago and Magome stations holds particular historical significance and attracts pilgrims as a hiking route. Designated as a national important cultural property for its well-preserved historic townscapes.

Sixty-seven post towns flourished along the Nakasendo during the Edo period, connecting Edo and Kyoto. Historic settlements like Tsumago and Magome preserve traditional architecture and stone-paved streets. Once bustling with daimyo processions and pilgrims, the route is experiencing revival as a pilgrimage and heritage tourism destination.

An ancient pilgrimage route leading to Koyasan from Wakayama Prefecture, spanning over 9km. Marked by 180 stone pillars called choishi that have guided pilgrims for centuries. Still traveled by many devotees, especially during commemorations of Kobo Daishi's 1200-year legacy. Known for its quiet path through pristine forests.

A World Heritage pilgrimage route to the Kumano Sanzan shrines. One of only two 'path' World Heritage sites alongside Spain's Santiago de Compostela. Moss-covered stone paths are mystical.