SIGHTSEEING

A Stroll Through Time: Discovering the Charm of Magome-juku

2023.10.30

Magome-juku, nestled along a charming cobblestone hill, invites you to step back in time and experience a moment of sophistication away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As you wander through this historic post town, you can immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of babbling water, the cheerful chirping of birds, and the gentle breeze sweeping across the old highway.

Midway through the town, you’ll find the birthplace and former residence (Honjin) of the renowned literary giant Shimazaki Toson, now transformed into a museum that shares the rich history of Magome. This special place offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past and connect with the literary heritage of the region.

Take a moment to peek into quaint antique shops, enjoy a leisurely tea break in a retro café, or indulge your inner history buff and imagine yourself as a lover of the Kiso Road from times gone by.

Why not embark on a nostalgic yet somehow familiar journey along this historic highway with someone special?

Savoring the Local Cuisine of Magome

Surrounded by mountains and blessed with the bounty of nature, Magome boasts a variety of local dishes that reflect the area’s rich resources. Thanks to its pristine and clear waters, the town is home to numerous soba noodle shops. Depending on the season, you can indulge in a variety of local delicacies, including wild vegetables and river fish.

One popular local specialty is Gohei Mochi, a type of skewered rice cake that comes in various shapes, such as the classic sandal-shaped or dumpling-shaped. The rice cakes are generously coated in a sauce made from soy sauce or miso, mixed with crushed walnuts, peanuts, or sesame seeds, and then carefully grilled to perfection. The resulting dish offers a deliciously aromatic and chewy texture that has captured the hearts of many. Each shop has its own secret ingredients, making it fun to compare and find your favorite.

Access:

– Take the Kita-Ena Kotsu Bus Magome Line from JR Nakatsugawa Station for approximately 25 minutes and alight at Magome.

– If driving, take the Chuo Expressway to Nakatsugawa IC, then head towards Matsumoto/Kiso on National Route 19. Turn right at the Okita intersection and proceed straight on Prefectural Route 7, then follow the signs and turn left.

GoogleMap

Official Website: [Visit Magome-juku]