A Walking Trail Filled with Railway History
Apt no Michi was developed using the former uphill main-line trackbed. Along the route, visitors can encounter six bridges and ten tunnels, many of which preserve the distinctive brick architecture of the original railway facilities.
The most famous structure is Meganebashi, also known as Usui Third Bridge, an impressive four-arch brick viaduct and one of the most recognizable railway heritage sites in Gunma.
Several historic structures around Usui Pass are protected as cultural heritage. In 1993, seven brick railway bridges, eleven tunnels, and three substations were collectively designated as the Former Usui Pass Railway Facilities and recognized as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
The facilities have also been recognized as part of Japan’s Heritage of Industrial Modernization, reflecting the importance of the Usui Pass railway in the development of Japan’s modern transportation infrastructure.
Highlights Along the Trail
Starting at Yokokawa Station
The trail begins near JR Yokokawa Station on the Shin’etsu Main Line. The entrance to Apt no Michi is approximately three minutes on foot from the station.
The trail itself is relatively gentle in many sections, but the surrounding terrain gives visitors an idea of the challenge faced by railway engineers and workers who constructed a railway route across Usui Pass.
Former Maruyama Substation
One of the first major historic structures along the route is the Former Maruyama Substation. This brick facility was constructed when the Shin’etsu Line became one of Japan’s first major railway lines to be electrified in 1912.
The former battery room and machinery room remain, and visitors can view the exterior of the historic buildings.
The substation is an important reminder of the advanced electrical technology that was introduced to support railway operations over the difficult mountain route.
Toge no Yu and the Highland Scenery
Further along the trail is Toge no Yu, a day-use hot spring facility that provides a convenient place to rest during a hike.
As the trail continues, viewpoints overlooking Lake Usui appear along the route. Fresh green foliage in spring and early summer and colorful autumn leaves reflected on the lake create particularly beautiful scenery.
The autumn foliage season, generally around early to mid-November, is one of the most popular times to visit.
Meganebashi – Usui Third Bridge
The highlight of Apt no Michi is undoubtedly Meganebashi, or Usui Third Bridge.
This magnificent brick viaduct consists of four large arches and is one of the most impressive examples of Meiji-period railway engineering in the area.
Looking up at the bridge from below reveals the enormous scale of the structure. Visitors can also climb the steps to the top of the bridge, where they can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
The combination of practical engineering and elegant brick architecture makes Meganebashi one of the most memorable landmarks along the former railway route.
Former Kumano-daira Signal Station
The trail’s destination is the Former Kumano-daira Signal Station, where traces of the former railway station and signaling facilities remain.
The full route from Yokokawa to this point is approximately 5.9 kilometers. As a general guide, the walk takes about 125 minutes outbound and 96 minutes on the return journey.
The Sherpa-kun Trolley Train
A trolley train known as Sherpa-kun operates along approximately 2.6 kilometers of the former downhill main line between the Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park and Toge no Yu.
The train is operated as an attraction within the railway heritage park, so passengers need an admission ticket to the park.
Sherpa-kun operates on weekends, public holidays, and selected dates, while services are suspended during winter. It provides an enjoyable alternative for visitors who want to experience the former railway route without walking the entire distance.
From Railway Line to Historic Walking Trail
The original railway line was closed in 1963. Development of the abandoned railway route as a walking trail began in 1996.
The first section, connecting Yokokawa Station with Meganebashi, opened in 2001. The trail was subsequently extended to the Former Kumano-daira Signal Station in 2012, creating the route available today.
The conversion process involved a number of challenges, including obtaining permission for construction within a national park and addressing the installation of electrical infrastructure. Through cooperation and sustained local efforts, the historic railway route was eventually transformed into a public trail.
Walking Through the Tunnels
Lighting is provided inside the tunnels from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The lights are switched off at night, so visitors should avoid entering the tunnels after dark.
Walking through these old railway tunnels provides a particularly atmospheric experience. The cool, quiet interiors contrast with the forest scenery outside and offer a direct connection with the railway’s past.
A Two-Day Public Transportation Itinerary
Apt no Michi can also be incorporated into a two-day itinerary using public transportation.
One popular approach is to travel from Karuizawa Station by bus to Meganebashi, explore the historic bridge and walk along Apt no Michi, visit the Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, and then continue by train to Isobe Onsen.
Relaxing at Isobe Onsen
Located along the Usui River, Isobe Onsen is a historic hot spring town that developed as a post station along the old Nakasendo highway.
The clear, salt-containing spring water is known for its warming qualities. Isobe is also famous as the birthplace of Japan’s hot spring symbol, which is believed to have originated from an old map depicting the spa.
Visitors can also enjoy local specialties such as Isobe rice crackers and dishes featuring locally caught sweetfish, providing a pleasant way to end a day of walking and sightseeing.
Access and Visitor Information
Location
Yokokawa and Sakamoto areas, Matsuida, Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture
Access
By car, the trail is approximately 7 minutes from the Matsuida-Myogi Interchange on the Joshin’etsu Expressway.
By train, the entrance is approximately 3 minutes on foot from JR Yokokawa Station.
Parking
Parking areas are available near Lake Usui, Meganebashi, and the Former Kumano-daira Signal Station. Large buses can also use these parking areas.
Opening
The trail is generally open throughout the year, 24 hours a day. However, lighting inside the tunnels operates only from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
A Trail Where Railway History Meets Nature
Apt no Michi is much more than an ordinary walking path. The trail preserves the story of the railway technology that helped modernize Japan, the determination of the engineers and workers who overcame the difficult terrain of Usui Pass, and the relationship between transportation infrastructure and the surrounding mountain environment.
As you walk along the former railway line, historic tunnels and brick bridges appear among the forests, while seasonal scenery adds a different character to the route throughout the year.
Walk Through the History of Usui Pass
Learn about railway history, enjoy the mountain scenery, and experience the former railway route on foot. Apt no Michi is an appealing destination for families, history enthusiasts, railway fans, hikers, and photographers alike.
Following the old tracks through the mountains offers a unique way to travel through time while experiencing the natural beauty of Usui Pass.