Hunters patrol Nakayama Forest Road in Sapporo’s Jozankei after bear sighting.

Nakayama Forest Road is a historic mountain pass in Japan, once part of the ancient Kisoji route that connected the Nagano and Gifu prefectures during the Edo period. It served as a vital travel and trade path for samurai, merchants, and pilgrims, winding through dense forests and rugged terrain. Today, it is preserved as a scenic hiking trail, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s feudal-era transportation and natural beauty.

Jozankei is a hot spring resort located in a scenic valley near Sapporo, Japan, renowned for its natural beauty and therapeutic waters. Its history dates back to the late 19th century when a Buddhist monk named Miizumi Jozan discovered the hot springs, leading to the area’s development as a popular retreat. Today, Jozankei offers visitors a mix of traditional ryokan inns, outdoor baths, and seasonal attractions like autumn foliage and winter illuminations.