🗺️ Nakasendo (Karuizawa - Tsumago)中山道（軽井沢〜妻籠）

The Nakasendo, which runs east-west through Nagano Prefecture, has a long history and was an important road connecting Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Edo period, bustling with travelers. The section from Karuizawa to Tsumago features magnificent natural landscapes and historical buildings, making it well worth a visit. Karuizawa is a famous summer retreat loved by many literary figures and celebrities, known worldwide. The streets are lined with trendy shops and cafes, as well as art museums and sports facilities, making it a culturally rich area. Tsumago has preserved the appearance of an Edo period post town, exuding a nostalgic atmosphere of Japan's original landscapes. The scene of traditional wooden buildings standing closely together feels like stepping back in time. The streets offer various local snacks, including soba noodles made with local ingredients and "Goheimochi," which is made from glutinous rice pounded into a rice cake, skewered with bamboo sticks, and grilled with a sauce based on miso or soy sauce. Souvenirs include Kiso lacquerware and sake brewed by long-established sake breweries along the Nakasendo that have been in operation since the Edo period.

During the Edo period, it was one of the roads connecting Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto. Along the way, there are rich natural landscapes and historical buildings that are worth seeing. The street features local snacks, traditional crafts, and various spots that can create wonderful memories.