Along the Salt Trail are a number of sights, including the Sugi-no-To Great Cedar, Shiroike Pond, and the Salt Trail Museum. After visiting these, the Shionomichi Onsen Hot Spring is waiting for to wash away your sweat and fatigue.

Dividing the Japanese Islands in twain, the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line forms the western border of the Fossa Magna. This fault mostly follows the Himekawa River, but the section between Nechi and Kita-Otari (in Nagano Prefecture) travels through the mountains to the east. Through landslides and other geological processes, the area around the fault line formed into a gentle depression cutting through the mountains.

The Salt Trail runs along this fault, through these lowlands, avoiding the steep slopes of the mountains and the dangerous terrain and swift currents of the Himekawa River. This trail was used during from ancient times as a trade route between Niigata Prefecture (then called Echigo Province) with Nagano Prefecture (then called Shinano Province). From Echigo, fish, seaweed, and products traded by sea routes were carried inland to Shinano which in return sent tobacco, grains, and similar products. The most important product carried along this route, though, was salt, harvested along the coast, sea salt was carried inland for processing and distribution. In the days before refrigerated storage, salt was essential for the preservation of food and so the Salt Trail was like a lifeline for the people of the inland provinces. It is this reason why, even during times of civil war and bitter fighting between the provinces, this trade route was never closed or blockaded.

Enjoy walking this gently sloping forest trail. The leaves underfoot provide a soft, comfortable surface to walk upon, while the trees overhead shelter travelers from the wind, rain, and snow. Observe the scenic rural landscape along the trail and encounter a variety of wildlife, including a number of endangered species of dragonflies. Taste a bit of local culture at the Bokkajaya Tea House. And relax in the hot spring baths at Shionomichi Onsen.