長野自動車道：麻績・聖高原IC→筑北IC
Omi, Hijirikogen IC Nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Omi Village (麻績村) is a tranquil community surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps. With a population of around 2,700, Omi offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, while still providing convenient access to Nagano City and Matsumoto. The village is renowned for the Hijiri Highlands (聖高原), a scenic area featuring hiking trails, camping sites, and panoramic views. At the heart of the highlands lies Hijiri Lake, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. History enthusiasts can visit the Hijiri Museum, which showcases local artifacts and vintage aircraft, including a JNR Class D51 steam locomotive. Chikuhoku Parking Chikuhoku Village is a quiet, rural community located in central Nagano Prefecture. With around 4,100 residents, it’s surrounded by forests, rivers, and mountain air. The village sits at about 655 meters elevation, offering cool summers and snowy winters. Sashikiri Gorge (差切峡) is a dramatic ravine, carved by the Omi River through solid rock. Mount Azumaya stands at 1,387 meters, and is loved for its trails and panoramic views. Chikuhoku also holds deep spiritual roots— at Yasumiya Shrine (修那羅山安宮神社), nearly 1,000 stone deities are scattered throughout the forest. This shrine was founded by the last yamabushi, Shunara Daitenmu (修那羅大天武). Yamabushi (山伏) are Japanese mountain ascetic monks, traditionally associated with Shugendō (修験道), a spiritual path blending Shinto and Buddhism. In the forest of Yasumiya Shrine, you’ll find stone figures beneath beech and chestnut trees. There are cat gods, wolf gods, demons, silkworm deities, Jizō statues, the cosmic Buddha Dainichi Nyorai, sister statues holding hands, and Koyasu-sama—a fertility figure draped in donated waist cloths. As you walk among these stone deities and Buddhas, you may feel as if you’ve stepped outside the everyday world— enveloped in a mystical, sacred atmosphere. Colored by the prayers and hopes of ordinary people, this place has become a beloved spiritual destination. The JR Shinonoi Line runs through the village, connecting it to Nagano and Matsumoto. The Chikuhoku Smart IC on the expressway makes it easily accessible by car as well. Chikuhoku IC To be continued
Nagano Expressway: Omi, Hijirikogen IC – Chikuhoku IC, April 2025
