Near the popular tourist destination of Kagami-ike (Mirror Pond) in Togakushi, a section of the hiking trail extending over 10 meters had become severely muddy. We had repeatedly witnessed tourists hesitating to cross this muddy area with Kagami-ike just ahead, so we decided to install a boardwalk.

First, we conducted a site survey—visiting the location, taking photos of the current conditions, and determining where and how many boardwalk sections to place. We then consulted with the Ministry of the Environment, Nagano City, and Nagano Prefecture, obtained permission from the landowners, and submitted our application to the prefecture with detailed documentation including materials, placement, and area calculations.

We had hoped to complete the work before the busy summer vacation period, and were able to carry out the installation in late July. With over 50 people passing through daily even during the work, we are delighted that this boardwalk will serve not only hikers and trail runners but also tourists.

As for the actual work, we first transported the materials. The work site was about 200 meters from the Kagami-ike parking lot, making lumber transport much smoother compared to previous projects. We placed sleepers, laid boards on top, and secured them with bolts. While the process sounds simple, fine adjustments—such as ensuring boards were level—took considerable time.

The work took two days, and with the help of many volunteers, the boardwalk was completed.

The other location was a single-track trail (a path wide enough for one person) along a stream that had been suddenly severed. Many runners pass through here at night, and there was no detour available. Given the danger, we explained the situation to the Hokushin Forest Management Office and obtained permission for repairs. To prevent microplastic runoff, we used hemp bags as sandbags. We stacked stones, placed the soil-filled hemp sandbags on top, and restored the trail. When we checked after the race, it had not collapsed at all.

Thank you to everyone who helped!