5 recommended tourist spots around Kiso Town, Nagano Prefecture! Experience the Kiso horses and nature!

Located in the central part of Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture, Kiso Town is counted among Japan’s most beautiful villages. The best way to enjoy sightseeing in Kiso is by immersing yourself in its vast natural landscapes, which offer a refreshing experience for both mind and body. You can marvel at the grandeur of Mount Kisokoma, admire the beauty of the mountain streams, and listen to the gentle murmurs of the forest. As you enjoy a therapeutic walk in the woods, you may even discover your own special Kiso sightseeing plan.

Kiso Town is rich in nature, featuring towering cypress and cedar trees that are hundreds of years old, delicate wildflowers blooming quietly in the forest, and the refreshing songs of wild birds. Here, we introduce some of the most captivating tourist spots in this nature-filled town.

1. Atera Valley

Atera Valley (Atera Keikoku) is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Kiso. It is a lush scenic area surrounded by deep forests and features emerald-green clear streams. The beautiful trees along the Kiso River and Atera River create a breathtaking natural landscape, making this a powerful natural energy spot in Kiso. Throughout the valley, waterfalls and deep pools are scattered, offering a stunning view of the abundant Kiso Five Trees that grow in the area.

Especially in autumn, the magnificent autumn leaves delight many visitors. The valley entrance is about a 20-minute walk from JR Nojiri Station, making it an easily accessible tourist attraction. The defining feature of Atera Valley is the incredible transparency of its waters! The emerald-green color of the river, caused by its remarkable clarity, is truly mesmerizing and sure to leave a lasting impression.

This hidden power spot in Kiso is filled with scenic locations such as "Inugairi no Fuchi" (Dog-Returning Pool) and "Kuma-ga-Fuchi" (Bear Pool). Take in the natural energy and rejuvenate your spirit.

2. Mizukizawa Natural Forest

Mizukizawa Natural Forest, also known as the "Hometown Forest," spans approximately 820,000 square meters in the Mizukizawa area. It is a rare natural forest in Japan where coniferous and broadleaf trees grow together. This forest is home to representative tree species of the Kiso Valley, including over 200-year-old Kiso cypress, sawara, nezuko, beech, and subalpine firs such as urajiro-momi and kometsuga. It is one of Kiso's most precious forest resources. Approximately 98% of the trees in the forest are estimated to be over 200 years old, with the most remarkable being a giant sawara tree that is about 550 years old and has a diameter of 2.5 meters. The pure water flowing here has also been selected as one of Japan’s "Top 100 Exquisite and Well-Conserved Waters" by the Ministry of the Environment.

Mizukizawa Natural Forest is a nature-based tourist attraction that can be enjoyed throughout all four seasons. The forest features a well-maintained, approximately 3 km-long walking trail covered with wood chips, making it accessible for visitors of all ages, from children to the elderly. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing and easy trekking experience.

3. Kiso Horse Village

Surrounded by birch and larch forests, Kaida Highlands is a designated "Most Beautiful Village in Japan" and is a popular sightseeing destination in Kiso Town, known for its grand landscapes. Located within this highland area, "Kiso Horse Village" covers approximately 500,000 square meters and offers facilities for horseback riding experiences and soba-making workshops.

Inside the spacious ranch, which offers a breathtaking view of Mount Ontake, there are two stables with a total of 46 horse stalls. Visitors are free to observe the Kiso horses being raised here. These horses have lived alongside the people of Kiso for over 1,300 years, and visitors can also enjoy horseback riding experiences. This makes Kiso Horse Village a popular destination for families with children and couples.

Currently, around 30 Kiso horses are protected and bred at the village. Since breeding takes place in the spring, visitors can see foals between May and June. Many tourists visit during this season to catch a glimpse of the newborns. A visit to Kiso Horse Village is a relaxing and therapeutic experience, making it a must-see attraction when sightseeing in Kiso Town.

4. Nakasendo Trail

Nakasendo (pronounced Nakasendō) is one of the five major highways of Japan and is also one of the main sightseeing spots in Kiso. This historic route connects Nihonbashi in Tokyo to Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. Since the Nakasendo passes through Kiso, it is also known as "Kisoji" (Kiso Road).

Many of the post towns along the route have preserved the atmosphere of the Edo period, making them perfect for sightseeing and offering a fascinating walking experience. In the past, Nakasendo was used by feudal lords and nobles for processions, including the Sankin-Kotai (alternate attendance duty) and royal bridal processions. The highway stretches approximately 540 km and originally had 69 post towns, 11 of which are located in Kiso. This historic Kiso Road invites visitors to take a step back in time and explore at a leisurely pace.

5. Roadside Station Kisogawa Genryu no Sato Kiso-Mura

"Roadside Station Kisogawa Genryu no Sato Kiso-Mura" is a popular stop for tourists, located at the entrance of Kiso Village along National Route 19. The direct sales market offers fresh vegetables grown in this highland area, blessed with greenery, wind, and abundant sunlight.

Additionally, visitors can find locally crafted goods such as the famous Kiso "Orokugushi" (traditional wooden combs) and modern artisanal crafts made from Kiso wood. The dining area is also highly rated, serving delicious soba noodles prepared by local staff. Other recommended menu items include Kiso beef and croquettes, making it a great spot for enjoying local flavors.

With its fresh vegetables, exquisite crafts, and gourmet specialties unique to Kiso, "Roadside Station Kisogawa Genryu no Sato Kiso-Mura" is an ideal place to take a break during your sightseeing journey in Kiso. Be sure to stop by!

◎ Summary of recommended tourist spots around Kiso Town, Nagano Prefecture

Kiso Town, known as the "Land of Mountains, Water, and Forests," is the perfect destination for nature-based tourism. To the west of the Kiso Valley lies Mount Ontake, a stunning peak with five ridges and five ponds, while to the east stands Mount Kisokoma. At the foothills, visitors can enjoy beautiful mountain streams, vast highlands, and mystical waterfalls of various sizes.

Kiso is also home to the Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest, considered the birthplace of forest bathing, as well as ancient groves filled with centuries-old giant trees—making it an ideal place to fully immerse yourself in nature. Activities such as canoeing, rafting, forest bathing, and trekking allow visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. Explore your favorite sightseeing spots in Kiso Town, where the crystal-clear rivers, majestic mountains, and lush highlands create a breathtaking landscape. With a comfortable climate and dynamic seasonal changes, Kiso Town offers an unforgettable travel experience. Visit and be amazed by its charm!