Guida
Apto no Michi is a beautifully maintained 6.3km walking path constructed on the former tracks of the Shin'etsu Main Line's Abt-system railway. The section between Yokokawa Station and Kumonokira Station is a living museum of railway technology, featuring numerous structures that tell the history of Japanese engineering. Along the route, you can witness six bridges and ten tunnels, including the Old Maruyama Substation, which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. These architectural relics allow visitors to experience the grandeur of the railway era up close.
This area holds significant historical value as it was once a site where the specialized 'Abt-system' was used to overcome steep gradients on the Shin'etsu Main Line. Today, the path has been repurposed into a hiking trail to preserve and showcase this unique railway heritage. The structures, such as the Old Maruyama Substation, are protected as National Important Cultural Properties, serving as vital monuments to the technological development and industrial history of Japan's railways.
The course is dotted with impressive railway-era structures. Key highlights include the 'Megane Bridge' (spectacular brick masonry) and the Old Maruyama Substation. The journey through the six bridges and ten tunnels provides a tangible connection to the past. Additionally, there are scenic viewpoints along the path where you can enjoy beautiful vistas of Lake Usui, offering a perfect blend of industrial history and natural beauty.
Apto no Michi is open year-round; however, please be aware of the lighting conditions within the tunnels. The lights inside the tunnels are operational from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Because the lights turn off at 6:00 PM, visibility inside the tunnels becomes very poor and potentially dangerous after dark. We highly recommend completing your hike during daylight hours. The spring to autumn seasons are particularly pleasant for hiking through this historical landscape.
Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic hike following the exact route once used by trains. Starting from Yokokawa Station, you will navigate through changing terrains, passing through tunnels and over bridges. The one-way trip from Yokokawa Station to Kumonokira Station takes approximately 125 minutes, while the return trip from Kumonokira back to Yokokawa takes about 96 minutes. It is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in both nature and history.
Before or after your hike, you can visit nearby attractions such as Lake Usui or the 'Toge no Yu' hot spring facility. For those interested in a deeper dive into railway history, the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is located in the vicinity. Parking is available at several points, including Lake Usui, Megane Bridge, and Kumonokira, with spaces sufficient for large vehicles.
As this is a hiking course, please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Since the path includes several tunnels, please watch your step and be mindful of the terrain. If you plan to use nearby facilities like Toge no Yu, please check if they accept cash or credit cards. Most importantly, remember that tunnel lighting turns off at 6:00 PM, so plan your schedule to ensure you are not walking in the dark. Please respect local etiquette and follow any posted signs regarding photography in public areas.