KISO FUKUSHIMA
Kiso Fukushima
During the Edo-period, Japan was ruled by a Samurai class who held power by keeping the families of Japan’s feudal lords hostage in Tokyo. The lords were required to visit regularly via trails such as the Nakasendo, ensuring they didn’t have the time to rebel and start an uprising. Four security barriers were constructed to monitor traffic in and out of Tokyo in search of weapons. 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, in particular those lining the banks of the Kiso River, 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. The checkpoint master’s former residence is nearby and can easily be visited.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Yamamura Residence
The Fukushima Checkpoint was overseen by Owari clan governor Mr. Yamamura, a powerful and wealthy figure in the community. Today, only part of his reputedly decadent mansion remains, restored for visitors to explore. The beautiful rooms house a collection of Edo period documents, ceramics, weapons and clothing.
Kozenji-Temple
Kozen-ji is the Kiso Valley’s most famous temple. For a small entrance fee, you can explore the beautiful grounds containing cherry blossom, luminous moss and Asia’s largest dry rock garden, said to resemble the clouds over the valley. On display inside are a number of paintings and treasures (closed in winter).
Fukushima Checkpoint
The Kiso-Fukushima checkpoint was founded 270 years ago to monitor traffic in and out of Tokyo. The site has been restored into a fascinating museum where visitors can learn about the culture and history of the time from the collection of Edo-period artifacts. It is a must-see attraction in Kiso.
Public Foot Bath
On the banks of the Kiso River, you’ll find the town’s free public foot bath steaming with natural hot spring water. After a long day exploring the town or hiking the surrounding mountains, there is no better way to soothe your tired legs. Once your muscles are relaxed, be sure to try walking across the reflexology stone path for an additional treatment.
OTHER NAKASENDO AREAS
Otaki Village
Ancient Japanese beliefs are rooted in nature worship, so it was widely believed that mountains were the meeting place of heaven and earth. As Mount Ontake is Japan’s second largest volcano, it is a centuries old destination for religious pilgrims to pray and be purified. Otaki village, located 40 minutes from Kiso-Fukushima, lies at the foot of Mt. Ontake and has a history of accommodating the pilgrims travelling to the area.
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).
