Summary
Walking through the Kiso Valley provided a complete contrast both to the crowds and modernity of Tokyo, and the mass movement of climbers up and down Mount Fuji. It's a place of tranquility and history, in a little-known part of central Honshu which was once very much on the beaten track. An easy half-day walk through peaceful rural surroundings between two well-preserved little towns, along a well-maintained hiking trail.
- I will remember most the ancient traditional buildings.
- The best bit for me was the sense of relaxation on the walk during a busy holiday schedule.
- There weren’t any “worst bits” on this route.
- The funniest moment was eating the deep-fried locusts after the walk.
- I didn’t expect to be eating green tea ice with sweet bean sauce either.
- I had never seen rice fields up close before, although I had seen plenty through the windows of the trains.
- There was nothing to warn others about, and no scary bits – just a lovely walk!
Read the full walking story, with lots more photos of the hike
Contributed by: Andrew Llanwarne
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Walking past houses along the old post road
Key Facts
| Location |
Kiso Valley, Nagano prefecture, central Honshu |
| When it was walked |
July 2003 |
| Walk type |
Countryside paths and easy hills |
| Difficulty |
Suitable for anyone who enjoys an easy walk |
| Distance approx |
8 km (5 miles) |
| Height climbed approx |
50 m (150 ft) |
| Time taken approx |
2 hrs |
| Map used if any |
None |
| Source of info on walk |
Information in the Lonely Planet guide, and signs along the route |
| Getting there |
Train to Nagiso, bus to Tsumago.
Bus from Tsumago to Magome. |
| Places to stay |
Minshuku (guest house) in Tsumago |
| Places to eat/ buy food |
Small food shop in Magome |
| Any other local attractions or facilities |
The old timber buildings in the two villages. Folk museum and house of the nobility in Tsumago. Museum in Magome devoted to Shimazaki Toson, early 20th century writer
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