Japan's Historical Route - A Favourite With Photographers
The towns and villages along this route benefited considerably from the wealthy traffic passing back and forth. Many of the houses are adorned with features that are rarely encountered elsewhere, on private dwellings at least. The special nature of these post towns has attracted considerable attention in recent years and now they are being preserved as a testimonial to that golden era in Japanese history.
The Complete Route
The route from Tokyo to Kyoto proceeds north before heading west. The mountains may not seem like an obvious choice 都内 フォトグラファー but, by heading to higher ground, this route offered a drier experience. A brief list of stops includes Takasaki, Saku, Shiojiri, Ena, and Maibara. Much of this route is now followed by modern transport options with both highways and rail along many sections, though photographers are unlikely to want to follow the whole trail anyway.
The Kiso Valley
This section in Gifu Prefecture, between Shiojiri and Ena, is rated one of the best, both in terms of the preservation of the post towns en-route as well as the surrounding natural beauty. Access to the start and end points can be by road or rail but once in the valley the best mode of transport for photographers is, as originally intended, by foot. The post towns are each a leisurely day's walk apart and offer traditional accommodation in the form of ryokan and minshuku (inns).
Narai is a typical post towns, although one that has been preserved better than most. Wooden buildings are the norm, with few signs of encroachment by modern life. This makes a good base as there are some interesting excursions from the town as well as much interest within it. The Torii Pass between Narai and Yabuhara was the highest point along the whole Nakasendo Trail - though this section takes only about 2 hours for a reasonably fit walker.
Except for the pass above, the Nakasendo Trail here follows the valleys. Photographers with time to spare may enjoy leaving the valley floor to capture more general landscape images. If they are lucky with the weather, such scenes could well include snow-capped peaks as well as layer upon layer of gorgeous pine-clad ridges. If you do intend to wait for sunset to capture these do take along a head-torch for the return home. You should also let your hosts know your plans so that they do no fret, and have diner ready at the appropriate time.
A photographer's daily routine is likely to begin with an early start to capture scenes in the best of the light. Then after breakfast they can continue along the route. It is not necessary to carry luggage as each town has a forwarding service at the tourist information centre, though timings are limited. Groups on a photography workshop are likely to have their own arrangements in place. Carrying just camera equipment and other essentials then, a photographer will be able to enjoy short walks and really get a feel for the Japanese countryside.
The last two stops, heading towards Kyoto, are Tsumago and Magome, both post towns with very worthwhile photographic opportunities for photographers.
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