The Mackerel Highway is a road that runs through a mountain valley. From the Sengoku period to the Edo period, mackerel was transported from Wakasa to the capital of Kyoto along this 18-ri road. The name "Mackerel Highway" comes from this. The people, history, and culture that traveled along the road still live on today, together with the great outdoors. Please come and experience the "Road to the Ancients" rich in nature, following in the footsteps of your ancestors.
Located on the border between Shiga and Fukui prefectures, the view from Onyu Pass captivates visitors. It is also a popular spot to see the sea of clouds in the early morning hours around October and November each year. Please check the road conditions in advance when visiting.
Today's Kutsuki Market is a bustling post town that was formerly Kutsukijuku. It was a lively route where peddlers travelling between Wakasa and Kyoto would sometimes cool off in the shade, and in the autumn foliage they would take a break from the splendor of the scenery.
The former Shurinji Garden (also known as the Ashikaga Garden) located in the grounds of Koshoji Temple is said to be a garden given by Hosokawa Takakuni to comfort the shogun Ashikaga Yoshiharu when he stayed there for about three years to escape the dangers of a rebellion.
Every Sunday and public holiday morning, local specialties (horse chestnut mochi, mackerel sushi, agricultural products, woodwork, etc.) are sold at the roadside station Kutsuki Shinhonjin. This morning market featuring locally made products is always crowded with many people.
We will guide you through a fun course around Kutsuki's tourist spots.
The travel times below are for walking and bus.
JRAdogawa Station
JRAdogawa Station
You can also use the bus.
Green Park Omoide no Mori is a refreshing park surrounded by lush greenery. You can camp in the forest with bungalows, or stay overnight at the relaxing Kutsuki Mountain Lodge. After working up a sweat in the indoor pool, playing tennis or soccer, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a bath at Kutsuki Onsen Tenkuu.
