Places to eat on…
The Nakasendo Trail
Magome Chaya (馬籠茶屋)
Traditional Japanese Teahouse & Light Meals; Nestled near the top of the charming stone-paved slope in Magome-juku, this cozy wooden teahouse invites you to relax and enjoy a warm, comforting meal. It serves hearty bowls of soba noodles, savory rice dishes, and delightful local sweets, all while offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before or after a scenic hike through the area’s beautiful trails.
Kurumaya (車屋)
A well-established restaurant near Kiso-Fukushima Station known for its unagi-don—grilled eel glazed in sweet soy sauce over rice. A local delicacy, perfectly done here with crisp skin and tender meat.
Araya
Araya is a long-established eatery in the heart of Tsumago-juku, known for its seasonal mountain fare, including grilled river fish like ayu, handmade soba noodles, and sansai (wild vegetables). The atmosphere is rustic, with tatami seating and old wooden beams. It's a perfect place to rest and refuel with a simple, hearty lunch after hiking.
Izumiya
A welcoming café-style rest house near the lower entrance of Magome-juku, Izumiya serves udon, soba, onigiri, and Japanese-style curry. It’s known for its friendly staff and relaxed, homey feel. Try the set menu with seasonal sides or a refreshing cold soba in summer. Great for travelers who want a quick but authentic meal without the fuss.
Otokichi
Otokichi specializes in freshly handmade soba noodles, made daily with local buckwheat. It’s a small, humble spot with limited seating, often praised for its quality and simplicity. The zaru soba (cold soba with dipping sauce) and kake soba (hot soba in broth) are especially popular, and the setting feels straight out of Edo-era Japan.