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Usui Pass Edo Era Walk

Step into the Edo period and follow in the footsteps of shoguns and travelers on the historic Nakasendo. This guided walking tour takes you across the Usui Pass, once known as the most difficult section of the route, while immersing yourself in history and nature. Along the way, Kamishibai storytelling brings to life legends of Sakamoto-juku, depicted in ukiyo-e prints. Dressed in Edo-style travel gear (sedge hat, straw raincoat, travel pass), you’ll visit landmarks such as Kumano Shrine, the Usui Sekisho checkpoint, and the Nagai Family Residence, where Emperor Meiji once stayed. Experience the journey with all five senses: See: History and legends through Kamishibai Taste: Chaya Bento with Toge no Chikara Mochi Hear: Multilingual guide commentary Smell: Cedar forest phytoncide walk Touch: Cross the pass in Edo traveler attire At the end, receive a souvenir certifying your Usui Pass crossing. Relive samurai culture and discover one of Japan’s most fascinating walking routes.

About this activity in Karuizawa

Cancellation policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time. no refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Other Policy
Step into the edo period and follow in the footsteps of shoguns and travelers on the historic nakasendo. this guided walking tour takes you across the usui pass, once known as the most difficult section of the route, while immersing yourself in history and nature, along the way, kamishibai storytelling brings to life legends of sakamoto-juku, depicted in ukiyo-e prints. dressed in edo-style travel gear (sedge hat, straw raincoat, travel pass), you’ll visit landmarks such as kumano shrine, the usui sekisho checkpoint, and the nagai family residence, where emperor meiji once stayed, experience the journey with all five senses:, see: history and legends through kamishibai, taste: chaya bento with toge no chikara mochi, hear: multilingual guide commentary, smell: cedar forest phytoncide walk, touch: cross the pass in edo traveler attire, at the end, receive a souvenir certifying your usui pass crossing. relive samurai culture and discover one of japan’s most fascinating walking routes.

Includes

  • Shrine offering fee for visiting kumano shrine is included.
  • admission fee for the nagai family residence memorial hall is included.
  • rental of edo-style traveler’s attire, including sedge hat, raincoat, guards, and travel permit.
  • commemorative pass for crossing usui checkpoint, one of japan’s three great checkpoints.
  • snacks

Excludes

  • Transportation fee to usui pass observation deck is included.
  • luggage transport fee (not included, available as optional service).

Other

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • public transportation options are available nearby
  • not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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Know more about Karuizawa

Best-rates for the Usui Pass Edo Era Walk starts from $6 per person with includes with all other facilities. Varoom matches every traveler with their perfect place to stay or activity, whether you are traveling with a group, friends, family, or pets.
Yes, certain activities may adjust schedules depending on the season, daylight, or weather conditions.
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, details for the cancellation policy for the Usui Pass Edo Era Walk are as follows: A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time. no refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time. Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the activity description.