AKASAWA NATURA RECREATION FOREST
AKASAWA NATURAL RECREATION FOREST
Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest tells a fascinating story. Spread over 700 hectares in the mountains southwest of Agematsu, it has been coveted for its Kiso cypress trees since the Edo period. During that time, the Owari clan placed strict limitations on timber use, however in the late 1800s, the imperial family took control and began logging the area. Railroads were built to transport the precious cypress which famously came to be used for rebuilding structures such as Ise-jingu, the most sacred shrine in the nation.
As domestic timber use declined in the 1960s, a re-conceptualisation of national forests took place across the nation and Akasawa Forest was designated Japan’s first ‘National Recreation Forest’ in 1970. ‘Forest bathing’ was first proposed here in 1982, which instructed visitors to absorb the atmosphere of the woodlands for its various health benefits.
Akasawa forest is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Japan and also makes the list of ‘one hundred most fragrant scenic areas’ compiled by the Environment Ministry. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along its many trails at any time of year, though the colours of summer and autumn are particularly breathtaking.
OTHER NAKASENDO AREAS
Kiso Fukushima
Kiso-Fukushima was one of the Nakasendo post towns as well as one of the four security checkpoints, thus it flourished as a political and economic centre in the Kiso Valley. The distinct Edo-style buildings throughout town are a picturesque reminder of this history. The checkpoint itself has been restored and now contains many fascinating relics of the Edo period including a display of documents, maps and weapons.
Magome - Tsumago
The trail between Magome and Tsumago is a well-preserved section of the former Nakasendo trail. The walk is easy to moderate and well signposted in English. It is roughly 8km long and takes approximately three hours to complete at a leisurely pace. The trail leads through the countryside, past the homes and fields of local residents, occasionally intersecting with the road where hikers must walk along asphalt for short portions.
Yabuhara - Narai
This section of the trail (the Torii Pass) from Yabuhara to Narai is particularly strenuous so travellers often needed to stop and rest here. As a result, Narai grew to be one of the most prosperous towns in the Kiso Valley and received the nickname ‘Narai of a Thousand Houses’ due to the sheer abundance of guesthouses. The Torii pass hike is 8.5km long and takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete.
Accommodations
There are unique accommodations in Kiso Vally ranging from ‘Mishuku’ (Japanese bed & breakfast guest house) to ‘Ryokan’ (accommodation typically features a private Japanese tatami room with ensuite facilities).
