Toyamago: a hidden gem

Toyamago: a hidden gem

Located deep in the mountains of Southern Nagano, Toyamago offers unique places to visit, things to do and places to stay.

Shimogurinosato

·        A village that inspired a Japanese blockbuster anime film

Shimogurinosato, a village that clings on the mountainside and appears as though the houses are floating in the clouds. It served as an inspiration for a very famous Japanese anime film. Near the village is Shimabata, an old-style Japanese inn, famous for preparing and eating food around a hearth. The inn offers both Japanese tatami rooms as well as western-style rooms and large baths to soothe the soul.

Shirabiso plateau

·        Stargazing

The Shirabisokogen Plateau is where people throng to view the night sky filled with stars. The Shirabisokogen Plateau is also a good starting point for trekking. There is a hotel located here called Amanogawa (which means the Milky Way). Located 1,900 meters above sea level, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Japanese Alps.

Magokoro

·        For foodies

A young couple has converted an old Japanese farmhouse where you can stay, but also feast on both traditional and nouveau Japanese cuisine. Magokoro (which means sincerity), embodies the couples’ idea about what it is to be a welcoming host. Magokoro also offers experiences such as learning how to cook rice the old way and making mochi cakes. Guests can also go on relaxing short walks in the forest nearby.