Guida
Kosuge no Sato is a traditional settlement located in Mizuho, Iiyama City, Nagano Prefecture. It has been officially designated as an "Important Cultural Landscape" by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, serving as a living testament to how humans have coexisted with nature for centuries. The village is centered around a long, straight approach known locally as "Kaido," which leads to Kosuge Shrine. The landscape is characterized by houses arranged in a terrace-like fashion to suit the terrain, and distinctive stone walls made of andesite quarried from nearby Mount Kosuge. Today, the community of approximately 60 households maintains this heritage through traditional practices, such as the management of local water channels.
Historically known as Kosuge-go or Kosuge-so, this area was once a significant center for spiritual practices. The landscape is protected under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties, specifically preserving the relationship between forest use, water-based life, and residential structures. This includes the use of forests for timber and disaster prevention, as well as the integration of ponds and water channels. Kosuge Shrine, a central landmark, once flourished as one of the three major ascetic training sites in the Northern Shinano region, remaining a cornerstone of local faith.
The straight path leading to Kosuge Shrine is the most vital element for understanding the village structure. As the elevation changes, you can observe how houses are tiered along the slopes, supported by skilled andesite stone masonry. Another fascinating feature is the "Kawa" (or "Tane"), traditional reservoirs that collect mountain spring water for daily life and snow melting. Additionally, the irrigation systems drawing water from Lake Hokuryu demonstrate the deep connection between the community and its water resources.
Based on seasonal data, May is a beautiful time to visit when the natural greenery is particularly lush and vibrant. It is best to visit during daylight hours to clearly observe the terrain and the intricate water systems. Please note that the parking area typically closes at 5:00 PM, so we recommend arriving during the day to enjoy the scenery fully.
Visitors can observe unique communal systems like "Otenma," the traditional method of maintaining water channels, and the ingenious use of topography in stone masonry. The village also preserves historical cultural events, such as the "Kosuge no Hashimatsu" (pillar-carrying ritual), which are part of the region's living cultural heritage.
Kosuge no Sato is part of the Mizuho district in Iiyama. It is closely connected to the nearby Kosuge Shrine and the surrounding districts of Kobe, Sekizawa, and Harita, which together form the cohesive "Kosuge no Sato and Mt. Kosuge Cultural Landscape." The nearby Lake Hokuryu also plays a significant role in the local natural environment.
The terrain consists of slopes ranging from 470m to 540m in altitude, with many stone steps and uneven surfaces. We strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Since the parking area closes at 5:00 PM, please plan your schedule accordingly. Note that the parking area may be unavailable during the winter season.