Nezame-no-toko

Nezame-no-toko is a canyon along the Kiso River with large granite rocks shaped by flowing water over thousands of years into distinct formations. The resulting landscape shows how natural forces have carved and molded the stone into varied shapes and structures.

The site appears in historical records through poetry written during the feudal period about the beauty of the Kiso landscape along the Nakasendo route. These writings show the place attracted travelers and artists for many centuries.

Local stories connect this place to Urashima Taro, a figure from Japanese folklore who brought fishing and healing knowledge to communities living along the river. These tales remain part of how the area is remembered today.

Reach the canyon by train to Agematsu Station, then walk south along the river for about 30 minutes or take a short taxi ride to the entrance. Bring sturdy footwear since the path along the water can be uneven and rocky.

The granite formations became much more visible after the Kiso Dam was built in 1968, which lowered water levels and exposed previously hidden rock structures. This change revealed the full scale of the stone shapes that had been underwater.