This train line between Matsumoto and Nagoya is covered by
the Japan Rail Pass and runs through
the Kiso Valley,
along the route of the Nakasendo Highway, the old postal route between Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. Three towns along the way have some very well preserved features and are well worth a visit: Narai, Tsumago
and Magome. Narai is on the train line, though Limited Express trains Wide View Shinano do not stop here, and Tsumago and Magome are best accessed from
Nagiso or Nakatsugawa. These old post towns served the weary traveler, who would make the journey from Kyoto to Tokyo by foot.
0 KM - MATSUMOTO76 KM - 0H08 - SHIOJIRI This town is named ‘Salt Bottom’ as it is the end of the salt road from the coast to the south.