Magomejuku: A Journey Back in Time

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Step back in time at Magomejuku, a beautifully preserved Edo-era post town on the historic Nakasendo Way in Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

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Magomejuku

Magomejuku is a beautifully preserved post town in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, offering a glimpse into the Edo period. Nestled in the Kiso Valley, its cobblestone streets and wooden buildings evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

A brief summary to Magomejuku

Magome, Nakatsugawa, Magome, Gifu, 508-0502, JP
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and consider hiking to nearby Tsumago for a complete Nakasendo experience.
Try the local cuisine, especially gohei-mochi (pounded rice cake with a savory sauce) and soba noodles, for a taste of regional flavors.
Visit the Shimazaki Toson Memorial Museum to learn about the life and works of the celebrated author who was born in Magome.
Check the event calendar for seasonal festivals, such as the Kisoji Ice and Snow Lantern Festival in February or the Firefly Festival in June.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Nakatsugawa Station, take the Kita Ena Bus bound for Magome. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes and costs between ¥400 and ¥600. Buses depart every two hours from bus stop #3. Alternatively, a highway bus from Busta Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal) goes to Nakatsugawa, from where you can transfer to the local bus to Magome-juku.
Taxi

A taxi ride from JR Nakatsugawa Station to Magomejuku takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately ¥4,900 to ¥6,000. Taxis are readily available at the station.
Walking

For those arriving by highway bus at the Misaka parking area along the Chuo Expressway, Magomejuku is about a 20-minute walk. Follow the signs leading towards the town. Note that the walk involves some uphill sections.

Discover more about Magomejuku

Magomejuku, the 43rd of the sixty-nine post towns along the Nakasendo Way, offers a captivating journey into Japan's Edo period. This historic route, connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto, served as a vital artery for feudal lords, merchants, and travelers. Magomejuku, with its well-preserved wooden structures and gently winding cobblestone paths, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the ambiance of a bygone era. Located in the Kiso Valley, Magomejuku distinguishes itself with its steep, sloping terrain, a unique feature among post towns. The name Magome, written with characters for 'horse' and 'basket,' is said to originate from the time when travelers had to leave their horses behind due to the steepness of the road. The town's layout includes sharp, 90-degree turns, a defensive design known as 'Masugata' intended to confuse and trap potential invaders. Fires in the Meiji and Taisho eras led to the destruction of many original buildings, but dedicated preservation efforts have restored Magomejuku to its former glory. Today, the town is filled with museums, tea houses, souvenir shops, and residences, offering a blend of historical charm and local culture. Visitors can explore the Shimazaki Toson Memorial Museum, dedicated to the renowned novelist who was born in Magome and whose works depict life in the Kiso region. The surrounding natural beauty, including views of Mount Ena, adds to Magomejuku's allure, making it a tranquil and picturesque destination.