SNOW MONKEY RESORTS
Embark on a scenic escape to the mountains and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s Kiso Valley as you explore the rich history and traditions of the villages along the Nakasendo Trail on this day trip from Nagoya.
Delight in a hands-on soba-making workshop where you’ll create and savor this iconic dish. Explore a traditional Kabuki theater and learn about the region’s favorite pastime. Wander through the picturesque streets of Magome-juku, a historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail, and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Led by an experienced, English-speaking guide, this full-day tour offers a chance to relax and recharge in the serene countryside of Central Japan.
The tour is only available during winter season. From December 2, 2025 to March 15, 2026.
Highlights
Experience making (and eating) soba noodles in a soba making workshop
Discover the region's love for Kabuki with a visit to a traditional Kabuki theater
Stroll the streets of Magome and learn about the history of the Nakasendo Trail
Have a snack or window shop in the quaint town of Magome while you enjoy some of rural Japan's best scenery
Duration
9 hours
Offered in
English
What is included
English speaking guide
Soba Workshop
Admission into all Tour Locations
Transportation during the tour
What is not included
Optional Tempura side
Accommodation
Transportation to/from Nagoya Station
Nagoya Station
1-chōme-1 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, Nagoya 450-6001, Aichi, JP
Start time
8:00 am
End point
Nagoya Station
1-chōme-1 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, Nagoya 450-6001, Aichi, JP
Experience the joy of making (and eating) soba noodles in a hands-on workshop, then dive into the rich cultural traditions of Japan with a visit to a historic theater celebrating the art of Kabuki. Take a leisurely stroll through charming streets steeped in history, where you can learn about one of Japan’s old travel routes while soaking in picturesque rural scenery. Along the way, enjoy a local snack or browse quaint shops that reflect the area's timeless charm.
Embark on a scenic escape to the mountains and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s Kiso Valley as you explore the rich history and traditions of the villages along the Nakasendo Trail on this day trip from Nagoya.
This tour will start at Nagoya Station at 8:00 A.M., where your guide will meet you in front of the Silver Clock tower near the Shinkansen Gates. You will have the opportunity to put your belongings on our tour bus if you feel the need.
Your guide will provide you with a brief history of the region and set the scene as we depart Nagoya JR Station via our tour bus. We will take a short break at a roadside rest stop to stretch our legs before arriving at our first destination, a local Kabuki theater.
Kabuki, a traditional Japanese theatrical art form, holds significant historical and cultural importance along the Nakasendo Trail and the Kiso Valley, especially through its regional variant, Ji-Kabuki.
Ji-Kabuki is distinct from other Kabuki forms, in that it was performed in small community theaters or temporary outdoor stages, often during local festivals or important celebrations. These theatrical performances became a form of local identity, reflecting the values, customs, and social dynamics of these rural areas—often featuring tales of local heroes and historical figures that resonated with the audience.
You will have a chance to speak with a Kabuki actor, go backstage, and explore one of these beloved theaters in a guided tour.
As we continue our journey through the Kiso Valley, you will have the opportunity to participate in a soba-making workshop.
The Kiso Valley has long been renowned for cultivating some of the finest buckwheat in Japan, leading to the production of exceptional soba noodles. Local chefs have been perfecting the art of preparing this traditional dish for centuries, and the meal became a practical and nourishing meal for travelers along the Nakasendo Trail.
A local chef will guide you step-by-step through the process of making soba—which you will then be able to enjoy with an optional side of tempura.
The last leg of this journey will bring us to the picturesque town of Magome-juku. Situated on a slope, this town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain scenery and features a main street lined with traditional wooden buildings. Learn about the town’s role as a post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail while taking pictures of the town’s famous waterwheels.
Your guide will provide you with a tour of this charming town while allowing plenty of time for you to go off and explore on your own. Sample local delicacies or purchase some souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Of course, your guide will be on hand to take photos to make all your friends and family back home jealous of your time in Japan.
From here, we will return to the station via our tour bus and say our goodbyes there. Feel free to ask the guide for dinner recommendations or instructions back to your hotel.
This tour is not wheelchair accessible and will not be suitable for most guests with mobility impairments. Should you have any concerns about your ability to join the tour, please contact us to discuss prior to booking.
The drive from Nagoya to the Nakasendo Trail is around 2 hours, and while there will be a bathroom stop along the way, please come prepared to spend a few hours on our tour bus while we are heading to our destination.
In the winter, the weather in the Kiso Valley is typically cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in January and February. Daytime temperatures range from around 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), but it can feel colder with wind chill. Please pay attention to the weather forecast. We recommend dressing in layers, allowing you to stay warm during outdoor portions of the tour and adjust as needed while indoors.
This tour is not suitable for small children due to hands-on soba making workshop.
This tour is not available from April to November 2025. This tour is only available during winter season. From December 2, 2025 to March 15, 2026.
This tour is not available on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Minimum participants: 2, Maximum participants: 15
SNOW MONKEY RESORT
