Exploring the Nakasendo

The Nakasendo is one of the main roads of old Japan. Those of you who have looked us up on the map, may have noticed that Arisaka is very close to this road. Just driving about 15 minutes down the road, you can find a village with many old houses from that era.

This building used to be a Ryokan for special guests who travelled the Nakasendo. Daimyo (local nobles) has to travel to Edo every few years to show their loyalty. On their way they staid in this nicely restored house.

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Another restored house nearby harbours a country side restaurant: Kaa-san's.

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We enjoyed tasty and fresh Inaka-soba, together with sansei forest vegetables.

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This lady runs the place:

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Travelling a bit higher we found snow left over. The ski-season starts only end of December, but the road already required winter tires further up.

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Local Tourist Association

We are now also listed on the page of the local Tourist association. This page is also useful to find out what's going on in the area, and what kind of sights and restaurants exist.

Nagawa Tourist Association(http://www.nagawa.info)

Going up to the Ski area and the lake, it gets very touristy, and it will be difficult to meet true locals. On the other hand, there may be some good restaurants, although I cannot recommend any yet...