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Kiso Valley, Nagano - One of Nagano’s Hidden Gems

Best to visit between Sep 10 to 11 for the Ontake Kōshin Festival, the annual event held in the Kiso Valley, celebrating the sacred Mount Ontake

Kiso Valley, Nagano - One of Nagano’s Hidden Gems

Nakasendo Trail: Hike a scenic section of the Nakasendo Trail between Tsumago and Magome, enjoying the lush forests and historic waymarkers along the way.

Tsumago-juku: Explore well-preserved Edo-period post town with its traditional wooden buildings and charming streets.

Magome-juku: Explore this picturesque post town, taking in its beautiful scenery and historic atmosphere.

Kiso-Fukushima: Visit this town known for its barrier station (sekisho) and enjoy a stroll along the preserved historical streets.

Relax by the Kiso River: Conclude your day with a relaxing walk or rest by the Kiso River, enjoying the serene natural surroundings.

Local Cuisine: Have lunch at a local inn or restaurant, trying regional specialties such as gohei mochi (grilled rice cakes with miso) and soba noodles.

Local Festivals

Nagiso Summer Festival: Held in mid-August, this festival features traditional dances, music, and a lively parade through the streets of Nagiso, providing a festive atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

Magome Hoshizora no Yube (Starry Night Festival): In late summer, this festival invites visitors to enjoy stargazing events and cultural performances under the clear, starry skies of Magome.

Kiso Road Autumn Festival: As summer transitions into autumn, this festival in late September to early October celebrates the changing seasons with traditional music, dance performances, and local food stalls, highlighting the cultural heritage of the Kiso Valley.