Lemonade bottles, only 90 yen each, are put in the chilly waters to refresh passing walkers.

The 64th of 69 stops along the Nakasendo highway, tired travellers enjoyed a chance to rest in Samegai.

The skin numbingly cold, clear waters emerge their underground source and flow through the town. It is home to a rare species of fish called the Hariyo or Samegai Trout.

Rare baikamo flowers grow and bloom under the water here in summer. A plastic bottomed box tied to a rope is left out for better viewing.

Photographers from across the region come to view the baikamo flowers.

Samegai has many houses that are over 100 years old and some designed by American architect William Merrell Vories in the early 20th century.

A relic from a busier era? A small shop opens to the road, tempting walkers to sit and enjoy stream cooled drinks, cucumbers and tomatoes.

The shop has a trough of baikamo flowers for easy close-ups.

No refrigeration necessary.

The shop’s owner shares some friendly banter over change.

Perfect for the end of a hot mid-summer’s day.