Development was promoted through reclamation work using the Nasu Canal, and with the opening of the railway in the mid-Meiji period, Kuroiso began to develop rapidly. In Nabekake, on the east side of town, the old Oshu Kaido road passed through the area, and a stone monument bearing a haiku poem by Matsuo Basho, who is said to have visited the area on his journey to Oku no Hosomichi, still remains. Higashi Nasuno (Nasushiobara), on the west side of town, has grown rapidly as a new town development following the opening of the Tohoku Shinkansen.

The Nishinasuno area, located south of Nasu-Shiobara City, saw the establishment of many farms during the Meiji era’s development, and many of the cultural assets from that time are central components of the Japan Heritage site “The Future Envisioned by Meiji Aristocrats: The Romantic Tale of Nasunogahara Development.” This area allows visitors to take a historical journey around Japan Heritage sites and enjoy the vast farmland and rural scenery, including Senbonmatsu Farm, where they can interact with animals and enjoy farm cuisine.

This hot springs resort has a history of over 1,200 years, and has been healing many travelers since ancient times. Eleven hot springs are scattered along the Hoki River, which displays the beauty of the valley in all four seasons. From the Meiji to Showa periods, the area was visited by members of the imperial family and famous writers such as Natsume Soseki and Tanizaki Junichiro, and its history remains today. In addition to the hot springs with a variety of water colors and qualities, this hot springs resort is a place where you can refresh both body and mind, with its lush natural scenery, rural landscapes, and gourmet food unique to the highlands.

The Itamuro area is blessed not only with hot springs, but also with the magnificent nature that spreads out at the foot of the Nasu mountain range. There are many places to visit, including the famous Numahara Wetland, the small but graceful Maiden Waterfall, and Kinomata Valley and Gardens, where the lemon-colored waters will cleanse your soul.