Japan’s Nagano region looks to attract more tourists during the warmer months

  • NAGANO - Nakasendo Kamikochi
  • NAGANO - Walking the Nakasendo Way _ From Tsumago to Magome - Photo Giuseppe Morlando
  • NAGANO - Nakasendo ancient highway - Pix Nagano Tourism Organization (6)
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Edited by Travel Weekly


Primarily known as skiing destination at this time of year, Japan’s Nagano region is looking to attract more tourists during the warmer northern hemisphere months with a range of outdoor activities.

Among the major attractions is the famous ancient Nakasendo route, a path cut through the mountainous heart of Honshu Island. As one of five major historic roads, known as Gokaido, to connect corners of Japan during the Edo Period, Nakasendo links the imperial capital of Kyoto with Tokyo (the Tokugawa Shogun’s capital Edo) passing through the Nagano Prefecture.

It is the longest of the historic links, stretching more than 540km, although today’s hikers choose to trek sections rather than the entire route.

“We aim to increase tourist interest in Nagano beyond the ski slopes, the hot springs and the bathing snow monkeys,” Australian representative for Nagano Tourism Organization, Helen Wong, said. “Nakasendo was an important thoroughfare utilised by Daimyo lords, peasants, traders, and religious pilgrims.

“To stretch the legs on a section of the road opens a fascinating insight into what life was like in Japan during the Edo Period. Equally appealing are the many panoramic viewing points and villages visited along the way.”

The move to promote Nagano as a summer destination coincides with the release of the latest tourism nine-month statistics (January to August) which showed a 25 per cent growth in night stays by Australians compared with the same period in the previous year. The figures ensure Australia remains No. 2 in the world.

To highlight what Nakasendo has to offer holiday seeking Australians, a webinar will take place in March 2025, covering the best walks along the winding trails, the mountainous scenery, various quaint inns, and bubbling hot springs. A date for the webinar will be confirmed in the early new year.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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