Kiso Valley | JFE tours

Overview

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Kiso Valley

Nestled in Nagano Prefecture, Kiso Valley is a historic and scenic destination known for its well-preserved Edo-period post towns, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. It was once part of the Nakasendo Trail, an ancient route connecting Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo), where samurai, merchants, and travelers walked centuries ago.

The most famous post towns, Magome, Tsumago, and Narai, offer a glimpse into Japan’s past with their wooden inns, cobblestone streets, and traditional tea houses. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike between Magome and Tsumago, a well-preserved 8km trail surrounded by serene nature.

Beyond the historic charm, Kiso Valley offers stunning seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn leaves. Travelers can also savor local delicacies like gohei mochi, visit ancient shrines, and soak in relaxing hot springs.

A visit to Kiso Valley is a journey back in time, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Must-See Attractions
in Kiso Valley

Magome

Magome is a historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail in Kiso Valley. Once a key stop for travelers during the Edo period, it is now a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved cobblestone streets, traditional wooden buildings, and beautiful mountain views.

Magome Pass

Magome Pass is a historic mountain pass on the Nakasendo Trail, connecting Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku in Kiso Valley. It was an important route during the Edo period, used by travelers, merchants, and samurai. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a popular hiking destination today.

Tsumago

Tsumago is a beautifully preserved post town on the Nakasendo Trail in Kiso Valley. The town strictly maintains its historical atmosphere, with traditional wooden buildings, stone-paved streets, and no visible power lines. You can explore local inns, shops, and museums, or hike to Magome, another famous post town nearby.

Nakasendo Hiking

Nakasendo Hiking is a scenic and historic trail that follows the old Nakasendo Road, which connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) during the Edo period. The most popular section runs through the Kiso Valley, passing through well-preserved post towns like Magome, Tsumago, and Narai. Hikers can enjoy beautiful mountain views, lush forests, and traditional Japanese inns along the way.

Narai

Narai is a historic post town, known as the "Narai of a Thousand Houses". It was one of the most prosperous post towns during the Edo period. The town features well-preserved wooden buildings, traditional inns, and local craft shops, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.

Side Trips from Kiso Valley

Zenkoji Temple

Zenkoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Nagano, founded over 1,400 years ago. It houses Japan’s first known Buddhist statue, making it a major pilgrimage site. The temple is famous for its beautiful wooden architecture, the "O-kaidan Meguri" (a pitch-dark underground passage for spiritual rebirth), and its welcoming atmosphere.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a famous wildlife park in Nagano, where visitors can see wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) bathing in natural hot springs. Located in a mountainous area, the park is especially popular in winter when the monkeys soak in the warm water surrounded by snow. It offers a unique chance to observe these monkeys up close in their natural habitat.

Karuizawa

Karuisawa is a popular resort town located in Nagano, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and cool climate. Famous for its lush forests, scenic mountains, and charming streets, it attracts visitors year-round.

Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen is a historic hot spring village in Nagano, Japan, famous for its natural onsens (hot springs), traditional atmosphere, and top-class ski resort. With a history of over 1,000 years, the village has 13 free public bathhouses and many ryokan (traditional inns).

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved original castles, located in Nagano. Built in the late 16th century, it is known as the “Crow Castle” due to its striking black exterior. The castle features a six-story wooden keep, stunning views of the Japanese Alps, and a rich samurai history.

Hakuba

Hakuba is a famous mountain resort in Nagano, known for its world-class skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities. In winter, it attracts skiers with its powder snow and diverse slopes, while in summer, visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Kamikochi

Kamikochi is a stunning mountain resort in the Japanese Alps, located in Nagano. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Kamikochi offers picturesque views of snow-capped peaks, clear rivers, and lush forests.