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right bank of the Chikumagawa taking a straight direction to the east. After three ri we arrive at Weda, a very great centre of the production of silk, and containing from 40,000 to 50,000 souls.
From Weda to Hoya, 2 ri 18 chô, we follow the last offshoots of the groups of Asamayama. On leaving Hoya the road returns to a southerly direction, following the valley of the torrent called Yodagawa. On this very picturesque road one may in returning enjoy the view of Asamayama, the crater of which emits (and did so notably in 1874) abundant vapours. Finally we rejoin the Kisokaido at Nagakubo, after a march of 4 ri, which though interesting, is painful, the soil of all these roads being always denuded (at least in 1874.)
From Nagakubo to Shimonosuwa.—We proceed from Nagakubo to Wadajiku, and thence to Shimonosuwa (total 8 ri 18 chô) surmounting the passes of Weda and Waga by a picturesque road; but one of the most difficult that one can travel, excepting the last part, which is good for about 1 ri before reaching Shimonosuwa. At about this distance, one has a delightful view of the lake.
Stay at Shimonosuwa.—The village of Shimonosuwa is built at a short distance from the lake, which unfortunately is not seen from the larger of the houses. In this village are found hot springs, and three principal sources may be mentioned, which are:
1.—Wata noyu, near the principal post-house (Gohungin); the baths are clean, and are even closed to the public, the temperature is 43°. The inhabitants pretend that these waters contain silver, and they call them Ginyu.
2.—Koyu, containing alum. Temperature very high.
3.—Tangayu, temperature very high; there are also the sources of the Kunuwosowa at the other end of the lake. These are also much frequented by the inhabitants. The climate of the borders of the lake is always fresh; on the 27th in the morning the thermometer indicated 12° 5 at 6 o’clock. One might make a summer visit here in circumstances favourable to health. In winter, according to the statements of the inhabitants, the cold is very
