What to know
The Kiso Valley (木曽路, Kisoji) lies in Nagano Prefecture, stretching alongside the mountains of the Central Alps. A historic 70 km trade route known as the Kisoji once ran through the valley, serving as a vital commercial artery in the region.
From the start of the Edo Period (1603–1868), the Kisoji grew in importance as it merged with other routes to form the 500 km Nakasendo. The Nakasendo ("path through mountains") was one of the two main highways linking Edo and Kyoto, contrasting with the coastal Tokaido.
Due to shogunate restrictions, travelers were almost always required to journey on foot. Consequently, post towns sprang up every few kilometers, offering rest, food, and overnight lodging during the arduous trip.
Along the Kiso Valley, several post towns—especially Magome, Tsumago, and Narai—have been preserved to resemble their appearance when they served Nakasendo travelers. Visitors can enjoy stone paths and wooden buildings that evoke a bygone era.
