Story:
While others may walk the Salt Road, we live it.
Our route, direction, experiences, and guiding are the result of deep connection and careful curation.
This is not just a walk — it’s a living story, thoughtfully told.
A Trail Steeped in History
For centuries, the Shionomichi — or “Salt Road” — linked the Sea of Japan to the mountainous heart of the country. Traders carried salt and seafood inland from the coastal town of Itoigawa to the castle town of Matsumoto, returning with goods like rice, tobacco, and silk. This vital lifeline shaped communities, economies, and culture across the region.
Today, much of the trail remains walkable, winding through mountain passes, rice fields, rural villages, and forests — offering a vivid glimpse into a lesser-known, deeply authentic side of Japan.
Led by a True Local
Your Guided by Nature journey is led by a certified Salt Road specialist who lives just off the trail and walks it year-round. This deep, personal connection to the route means you'll experience stories, places, and context you simply won’t find in guidebooks or from visiting guides.
Stay Where It Feels Right
Accommodation along the Salt Road is limited — but where options exist, we select stays that are a step above. Think welcoming ryokans, family-run inns, and traditional lodgings that offer comfort, character, and a restorative night’s sleep.
Keep reading or view our 9-day hiking itinerary on Japan's Ancient Salt Road >>
Supported, Not Rushed
Unlike tours that rely solely on taxis or public transit, we provide a dedicated private bus and support vehicle. This adds comfort and flexibility:
- Leave extra gear onboard
- Meet the vehicle mid-walk if needed
- Walk lighter, rest easier
- Take optional transfers for tired legs
It’s about giving you the space and support to enjoy the journey fully.
Go With the Grain of History
We follow the Salt Road in its original direction — from sea to castle — mirroring the route salt once took. This thoughtful decision enhances the journey in every way:
- Learn the history early, carry it with you
- Tackle the hardest mountain passes with fresh legs
- End in spectacular Matsumoto Castle — not a nondescript seaside town
- Watch the landscape shift and the story unfold
A Trail Reimagined Where Needed
In places where the original route has been lost to modern development, we’ve carefully crafted more scenic, less trafficked alternatives. These closely parallel the Shionomichi but offer a richer, more enjoyable walking experience — filled with beauty, interest, and peace.
Beyond the Walk: Cultural Immersion
This journey brings Japan to life through authentic, hands-on experiences:
- Visit a wasabi farm, rice fields, and bustling seafood market
- Taste craft sake at a local brewery
- Join a Japanese cooking class
- Experience traditional washi (paper) making with a master artisan
- Visit a soy sauce brewery and learn its centuries-old secrets
These moments add colour, texture, and connection to every step of the walk.
A Bonus Alpine View
We add a breathtaking detour — a gondola or ropeway ride into the Japanese Alps. Whether it’s Tsugaike Nature Park or Iwatake Mountain Resort, you’ll gain a panoramic view of the dramatic landscape you’ve been walking toward.
Yes — We’ve Thought About the Coffee
We know how important a good coffee can be. That’s why we’ve included carefully chosen café stops along the route — giving you time to pause, sip, and savour.
