Overview
Magomechaya Guesthouse sits along the historic Nakasendo Trail in Magome-juku, a preserved Edo-period post town in Gifu Prefecture. This family-run inn offers a simple, comfortable place to stay as you explore the surrounding nature, history, and charm of central Japan. From the guesthouse, you can walk to local shops, try soba noodles, and visit the nearby Toson Memorial Museum. You’re also just a short hike away from Tsumago-juku, making it a perfect stop for travelers walking the Nakasendo route.
The guesthouse is mostly made of wood and other light materials, so smoking is not allowed indoors. Instead, you’ll find an ashtray placed just outside the entrance. Rooms are not soundproof, so please keep noise to a minimum after 9:00 PM.
Accommodation
Magomechaya offers 13 Japanese-style rooms, each with tatami flooring and futon bedding. You’ll find clean, simple interiors and traditional design in every space.
- Two 10-tatami rooms that fit 1–5 people
- Five 8-tatami rooms that fit 1–4 people
- Six 6-tatami rooms for 1–2 people
All rooms include a yukata you can wear during your stay. Futons, sheets, and covers are stored in cabinets. You’ll make your own bed, following traditional Japanese custom. If you need a towel or toothbrush, just ask the staff. Rooms are not fully air-conditioned, but they are equipped with climate control. Summer is cooler than in the cities, and winter can be cold due to the higher altitude.
Dining
Meals are served in the dining hall across the street from the main guesthouse. Dinner starts promptly at 6:00 PM and ends at 7:00 PM. Breakfast is served at 7:30 AM and ends at 8:00 AM.
The menu changes with the seasons and includes fresh, local ingredients. If you don’t book a meal plan, you can use the small shared kitchen to prepare your own food or make tea.
Onsen and Wellness
There is no hot spring at Magomechaya Guesthouse, but you can bathe in the communal bathroom. Separate facilities are provided for men and women. Each side includes a large bathtub and three wash stations, complete with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. The bath is about 160 cm long, 90 cm wide, and 60 cm deep—perfect for a relaxing soak after a hike.
Guests with Tattoos
You can use the bath even if you have tattoos. Since bathing is done in private or in separate men’s and women’s areas, there are no restrictions for tattoos here.
Facilities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the guesthouse
- Shared lounge with tea, a guitar, and space to relax
- Buddhist altar in the lounge used for quiet family prayer
- Vending machines available in the lobby
- Two washing machines available for guest use (non-coin-operated)
The toilets and wash areas are shared and separated by floor and gender. You’ll find clean facilities with wash basins and multiple stalls on both the first and second floors.
Activities
Staying at Magomechaya places you in the center of the Nakasendo Trail. You can walk the historic route from Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku in about three hours. The area is popular with hikers and history lovers, especially for its well-preserved Edo-era buildings.
Take time to visit the Toson Memorial Museum, located just a short walk uphill from the guesthouse. The museum opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can also enjoy seasonal events in Magome, like firefly viewing in June, flowing somen noodles in August, and the autumn festival in November.
Additional Features
- 10–12 car parking spaces available near the property
- A buzzer at the entrance calls the staff, as they may not always be at the front desk
- Quiet hours after 9:00 PM
- Closest convenience store and supermarket are at the bottom of Magome-juku
- Access from Shinjuku or Tokyo via train and bus is straightforward
- You can walk from Misaka parking area to Magome-juku in about 15–20 minutes
Magomechaya is simple, friendly, and deeply rooted in tradition. If you’re looking to experience life along the historic Nakasendo Trail, this guesthouse offers everything you need for a memorable stay.
