The Nakasendo (“Central Mountain Route”) is a historic trail that once connected Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo) during Japan’s Edo period. Stretching over 500 km through forests, mountains, and 69 post towns, it was one of the main routes for travelers, merchants, and samurai.
 

I only walked a small section of it—Magome, Tsumago, Nagiso—but it felt like stepping into another time. Paths through forests, cobbled streets, hidden waterfalls, and kind strangers made this journey incredibly memorable.  It was somewhat a walking meditation for me.

Every step helped me breathe a little deeper and think a little clearer. From late-blooming sakura to "lucky" bear bell, these are the moments that made me pause, smile, and fall in love with Japan all over again.

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