Nakasendo was an important traffic artery leading to Kyoto,from Edo to Otsu period.People used to walk along this way,which used to be lively with various facilities.The urban centralization of population during the high-growth era from 1955 caused the decline of local small cities along Nakasendo way.This decline was also caused by the development of transportation means that generated consequently the decline of small cities (Shukubamachi*2) along this way.Sightseeing by walking along Nakasendo lost its importance and parts between the Shukubamachi covered by stone and milestone pavements are no longer used.Few parts remain in their original form,while others have been restored during the recent decades.The most well-known section lies in the Kiso Valley,between Tsumagojuku in Nagano Prefecture and Magomejuku in Gifu Prefecture.Both Tsumagojuku and Magomejukustill preserve their traditional architecture.This area was first made famous by the early 20thcentury writer ShimazakiToson,who chronicled the impact of Meiji Restoration on the valley in his novel "Before the Dawn".This 8km section of the Nakasendo can still be walked along comfortably by foot requiring 2~3 hours,with forests,restored paving and fine views of waterfalls along the way.