Ideal for Excursions from Nakasendo and Matsumoto
– Ina Valley, with its two Japan Alps, is a new destination for you –
Ina Valley (Nagano Pref.), the largest plain in Japan, with stunning views of the Central and Southern Alps, is about 45 minutes from Matsumoto and about 1.5 hours from Tsumago-juku on the Nakasendo. In this newsletter, we take an in-depth look at the northern part of this Ina Valley, which is rich in nature and tradition!
We are pleased to send you a pamphlet prepared by Nagano Ina Valley Tourism Bureau, a long-time partner of Heartland Japan. It includes information on access to the Northern Ina Valley, newly released unique tours including the Nakasendo, attractions, and inns. Enjoy!
Special Feature 1
Spring 2024 New Release Special Tours
The Nakasendo and Beyond!
Historically, Ina Valley is closely connected to Kiso Valley where Nakasendo is located. Special tours combining Nakasendo and Ina Valley are newly released! Custom-made tours are also available.
The Nakasendo and Beyond!
Handicraft Tour to Meet People Who Protect Traditional Crafts in Kiso and Ina Valleys
(3 days 2 nights)
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PRICE
247,900 JPY (6pax) ~
* inc 10% commission
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This is a journey to meet the traditional crafts handed down in the Ina and Kiso Valleys and the people who are struggling to pass them on to future generations. Some of them are designated as national traditional handicrafts. Recommended for those who love handcrafts!
The Nakasendo and Beyond!
Hiking, Cycling and Traditional Craft in the Kiso Valley and Ina Valley
(4 days 3 nights)
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PRICE
259,700 JPY (6pax) ~
* inc 10% commission
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A special 4-day/3-night tour that includes the world-famous Nakasendo Walk (Magome – Tsumago) and various other unique and exciting contents! From local food to local traditional handicraft, and cycling in Kiso and Ina Valleys. Each evening, relax and unwind in onsen hot springs!
The Nakasendo and Beyond!
Ancient Trails and Alpine Scenery in the Kiso Valley and Ina Valley
(4 days 3 nights)
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PRICE
220,600 JPY (6pax) ~
* inc 10% commission
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A special 4-day/3-night tour that includes the world-famous Nakasendo (Tsumago – Magome) and other unique, yet undiscovered trails in Kiso & Ina Valleys on different days. Each evening, relax and unwind in onsen hot springs!
Special Feature 2Unique Travel Contents in the Northern Ina Valley
Unique individual contents of northern Ina Valley are introduced! We can also offer tailor-made tours incorporating your desired contents. Please feel free to contact us.
Don’t miss! At the foot of the Japanese Central Alps
Outdoor Activities
In the northern Ina Valley, you can experience a variety of outdoor activities in diverse fields that are unique to this area, such as mountain climbing in the Central and Southern Alps, which are home to some of the most famous peaks in Japan; mountain biking on unique trails; sky sports with views of the Ina Valley below; and cycling while enjoying the beautiful landscape of satoyama.
Don’t miss! At the foot of the Japanese Central Alps
Hayataro Onsen
Onsen are a must-experience for travelers in Japan. Hayataro Onsen, located in the center of the northern Ina Valley and at thee foot of Japanese Central Alps has been selected as one of the 100 Best Hot Springs in Japan and known for its skin beautifying properties. There are more than 10 hot spring inns. Enjoy your stay in the clear air and great nature with hot springs and meals with local ingredients!
Rooted in mountainous regions
Traditional Crafts and Foods
The Northern Ina Valley is home to a variety of traditional crafts, including Ina-tsumugi Pongee, which is designated as a traditional Japanese craft; the Ryukei Inkstone, one of the three most famous inkstones in Japan. Also, straw craft from the southern part of the area represents the largest rice-producing region in the Southern Nagano Prefecture. Take part in the travel contents to meet the people who are striving to pass these crafts on to future generations, and create unforgettable memories of your trip to the region.
Make Your Trip More Special!
Add to Nakasendo and Matsumoto
The Northern Ina Valley is easily accessible from the Nakasendo (about 1.5 hours by car) and Matsumoto (about 45 min. by car), which is popular among international travelers! The Northern Ina Valley has long been deeply connected to the Kiso Valley, where the Nakasendo is located, in terms of culture and industry. You can make your trip more unique by taking a step out into the still unknown Northern Ina Valley and incorporating experiences and lodging that are unique to this area.
Special Feature 3
Other Spots and Accommodations in the Northern Ina Valley
More of attractive spots in the Northern Ina Valley, including Takato Castle, known as one of Japan’s three best cherry blossoms viewing site, and accommodations at Hayataro Onsen!
Interested in our tours?
Please feel free to contact us.
We have been having many requests from agents overseas, mentioning that they are trying to expand their destinations in/to Japan or they have already but need help creating the itineraries for their clients to keep up with the demand.
Heartland Japan has increased the number of staff to accommodate these requests. If you are hand-full and need some advice, we are here to help.