The Nakasendo Samurai Trail

3 days, 2 nights

Glamping along the old Samurai Trail

In the mountains of the Kiso Valley, surrounded by forest and rice fields, you’ll find your glamping tent right beside the historic Nakasendo Trail. Once travelled by samurai, merchants and messengers between Kyoto and Edo – present-day Tokyo – this ancient route still winds through one of Japan’s most picturesque rural landscapes.

Your home for two nights is a spacious bell tent set on a wooden deck, with proper beds and everything you need for a comfortable stay in nature. Outside, you have your own covered space for sitting, eating and gathering around the fire. At the heart of the campground is a beautifully restored 150-year-old Japanese farmhouse, now home to the lounge, kitchen facilities, showers and powder room. There’s even a traditional hinoki foot bath – perfect for tired legs after a day on the trail.

Use your camp as a base to explore the valley by car and on foot. Walk the famous Nakasendo Trail between Magome and beautifully preserved Tsumago-juku, or leave the better-known route behind and head into Kakizore Gorge, where forest trails lead past clear mountain water and waterfalls.

Back at camp, slow things down. Light the fire, enjoy a Japanese dinner and watch the sun disappear behind the mountains. When darkness falls, there’s little around you but forest, stars and the sounds of the countryside.

Far away from Japan’s neon-lit cities, this is a different side of the country: quiet, green and wonderfully unhurried.