The cobblestone pavement is always moist and is a particularly Hakone Hachiri-like place to visit.
The moss-covered stones and dark-green trees create a moist and peaceful atmosphere.
Until the Tokaido Way was built in the Edo period (1603-1867), travelers used to walk along a ridge road called Yusaka-michi, which dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333).
25 The Tokaido Way, established in the early Edo period, ran along a valley, and at first, it was a rough road where travelers would be knee-deep in mud when it rained.
Local bamboo was laid down to support travelers, but it quickly rotted, so it was replaced with cobblestone pavement around 1680.
The goal of slowing down the enemy’s progress may have been achieved, but one can only imagine how hard it was for travelers with simple equipment.
After enjoying the amazake (sweet non-alcoholic drink) and mochi (rice cakes) at the 400-year-old Amasake Tea House, as they did back in the olden days, why not buy sandals here and walk in them just like the travelers of old?
You will be surprised that you can walk on moss-covered cobblestones without slipping.
If you walk a little longer along the cobblestone pavement in the traditional sandals while others may be slipping on their hiking shoes, you will be one step closer to Lake Ashi.
The writer of this article.
Guide: Mika Asai
I was born and raised in Shonan.
My specialty as a student was history, but I have loved physical exercise and reading books since I was a child. I also enjoy bird watching and taking care of plants.
I would like to share the beauty of Hakone from various perspectives, including its unique history, culture, crafts, and spectacular nature.
