The Tosando is known for being one of seven of Japan’s first ever official roads. It was written about in Japan’s first ever texts written over 1,300 years ago. The Tosando lead all the way from the ancient capital of Omi (modern day Shiga Prefecture), to Mutsu in the north of Japan in modern day Miyagi Prefecture. This road was over 1,000 km long and was used by Japan’s soldiers of the time as they battled for control of the mainland with the native Emishi in the north of the country. This hiking tour takes place on the Misaka Pass, a section of the ancient road known to be the harshest, cruelest and most difficult section of all. Many folk stories and pieces of art were born out of the legendary mountain pass, which was known to experience sudden thunder storms and thick fogs making traveling there extremely treacherous. Artworks from ancient haiku poems to Japan’s (and the world’s) oldest ever novel, The Tale of Genji, the Misaka Pass is featured, showing the infamy of the mountain road.

We will start in the small mountainside village of Sonohara. When hiking the Tosando it is recommended that you stay at Hirugami Onsen and take a taxi to the start of the hike. Hirugami Onsen is a mountain town full of luxurious traditional hot spring resorts. Located in Achi Village, which is ranked number 1 in Japan for starry nights, Hirugami Onsen offers starry night guided tours. It is also famous for its springtime peach blossoms and it’s morning markets from 6:00-8:00.

From Sonohara we will start by looking around the local Visitor Center to learn a little about the history before heading off on the hike. We will pass by temples, shrines, and waterfalls, before entering the mountainous forests and beginning a steep ascent. As we emerge at the top of the once infamous Misaka Pass we will start to enjoy gorgeous panoramas on clear days. From there a small extension to Fujimidai Kogen is the best place to see the mountains. On the way down we will take advantage of a ropeway to descend with beautiful views all the way to nearby the visitor center. As this is a private hiking tour, the plan can be customized to fit your needs.

This hike is steep and demanding. If you prefer to, we can take the ropeway up and hike down. During the trip, I will provide hot drinks and snacks and you can even try on my own handmade waraji (traditional Japanese straw sandals), which I specialize in making.