Kiso Valley

Highly Recommended

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1 of 1 in Nagano Prefecture

The Kiso Valley (木曽路, Kisoji), located in Nagano Prefecture beside the majestic Central Alps, is a captivating region rich in history and natural beauty. Once known as the Kisoji, this 70-kilometer stretch served as a vital trade and travel route through the mountains. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), it became part of the Nakasendo—one of the five major highways connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. Unlike the coastal Tokaido, the Nakasendo guided travelers through inland mountain terrain, where foot travel was essential due to restrictions on river and sea transport imposed by the shogunate.

Today, the Kiso Valley invites visitors to step back in time with its remarkably preserved post towns, including Magome, Tsumago, and Narai. These towns offer a vivid glimpse into the past, featuring stone-paved paths, traditional wooden buildings, and tranquil rural landscapes. Walking the old Nakasendo Trail between them allows travelers to experience the quiet charm of feudal Japan—where history, hospitality, and nature blend in timeless harmony.

Getting around

In the Kiso Valley, getting around is relatively easy thanks to convenient access via the JR Chuo Line. The main post towns—Magome, Tsumago, and Narai — are all within reach of train stations or bus routes, making them accessible even for those traveling without a car. Each town has its own unique charm, and more detailed access information is available on their respective pages. Magome and Tsumago, located less than ten kilometers apart, are especially popular. They are connected by a scenic hiking trail that follows the historic Nakasendo route, or alternatively, by occasional direct buses for those who prefer not to walk.

A visit to the Kiso Valley can be made as a side trip from Nagoya, or even from Kyoto, depending on your itinerary. It also makes for a rewarding detour on a journey between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka, offering a slower, more scenic alternative to the Tokaido Shinkansen. While the valley’s highlights can be seen in a single day, staying overnight in a traditional minshuku or ryokan allows for a deeper, more immersive experience in this beautifully preserved region.