If you enjoy exploring Japan's ancient trails, but want to avoid the most popular ones that mainly attract tourists, then the Tosa Shio no Michi in Kochi Prefecture is for you.
Kagami-cho in Konan City was once an important salt-producing area, and their natural sea salt would be transported to a market in Akaoka-cho. This was done via the Tosa Shio no Michi, or Tosa Salt Road.
As anyone who has experienced a Japanese summer knows, salt is essential for human health, making it a precious commodity at the time. The trail through the mountains not only allowed trasnport of this important mineral, but was also a lifeline that allowed for the exchange of products and foodstuffs between mountain and coastal communities.
You can now experience their journey through a 30-km section of the route, which stretches between the towns of Monobe and Akaoka in Kochi Prefecture. HIking fans can follow the track and spot reminders of its ancient past, as the forest trail is dotted with shrines, temples and statues, to pray for the safety of travelers and the horses that once carried salt to market.
The Salt Road was revived by volunteers in 2002, and these days the Tosa Salt Road Preservation Society is active in maintaining the trail, creating rest areas, training walking guides and sharing its beauty with others. Over the years the road has been widely recognized for both its cultural and natural value, attracting hikers and trail runners who want to experience history and serenity along the 30-km protected route. The route regularly hosts long distance walks and trail running competitions, such as the Konan Trail event.
Those with strong Japanese skills can take on the trek solo as well, using this map. After being dropped off by taxi at the trailhead, hoist your pack and head into a world that seems to have remained unchanged for hundreds of years, for a true Kochi hiking adventure off the beaten track.
