Bakuro: Horse Handlers
The forgotten figures who once supported travel along the Nakasendo.
People
Places
Kiso Valley: A Land Between Mountains
A personal view of the deep valley, forested mountains, and geography that shaped the route of the Nakasendo.
Narai on the Nakasendo Trail
Why one of the finest preserved post towns still retains its Edo-period atmosphere.
Ichikokutochi Tateba Chaya
A quiet wayside teahouse preserving memory, rest, and local hospitality along the old road.
The Rice Terraces
Beauty, hardship, and the generations of farmers who shaped Japan's mountain villages.
The Stone Pavements of the Nakasendo
Reflections on mountain roads, Edo-period engineering, and the anonymous hands that shaped them.
Shimosuwa: Two Roads to Edo
Why did most daimyo processions cross the difficult mountain passes of the Nakasendo
The Shinkansen and the Nakasendo
Why roads and railways do not always follow the easiest or most direct route.
Nature
Why the Nakasendo Is Comfortable Even in Light Rain or Hot Weather
Tall trees shelter much of the old road, creating shade in summer and a special atmosphere on days of light rain.
The Sound of Water
Mountain water, village channels, and one of the quiet sounds that stays with me along the Nakasendo.
Elevation Profile of the Kisoji
Mountainous heart of the Nakasendo. The elevation of Torii Pass is 1,197 metres (3,927 feet).
Culture
Kiso Lacquerware
A traditional craft born from the forests, climate, and everyday life of the Kiso Valley.
Jizo: Prayers Carved in Stone
The old stone Jizo along the Nakasendo carry the memories and prayers of the people who once lived beside this historic road.
The Hidden Hospitality of the Nakasendo Trail
A quiet story from Magome-juku.
Kankaraya
A 150-year-old mochi shop preserving the flavors and memories of generations.
Soba, Buckwheat
Buckwheat, memory, and the mountain villages of Japan.