Narai-juku (Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Located in Shiojiri City (Kiso region) in Nagano Prefecture, Narai-juku is a tourist destination where the townscape that flourished as a post town on the Nakasendo (Nakasendo) road remains in good condition. A row of wooden townhouses, still reminiscent of the Edo period, stretches for about 1 km, offering a great opportunity to experience the road scenery of a post town from that time. Once a bustling post town with travelers and luggage, the area has been preserved and utilized, and is now lined with traditional merchant houses, miso, pickle, and soba shops, souvenir shops, and museums. The changing scenery throughout the seasons (cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snowy winter scenery) is also a highlight, making it popular with photography enthusiasts.

Highlights

• Orderly Edo period townscape: Traditional architectural styles such as black plaster, lattice windows, senbon lattice windows, and mushikomado windows can be seen in succession.
• Information on the Honjin and Wakihonjin ruins: There are historical sites and information boards scattered around that show the area's history as a post town (check the information signs).
• Folk crafts and souvenir shops: There are many shops selling Kiso lacquerware, local crafts, and folk crafts, so it's fun just to browse.
• Local cuisine and soba restaurants: There are several restaurants where you can enjoy local soba and other local dishes. Dishes made with seasonal ingredients are also recommended.
• Museum and exhibition facilities: There is a small museum and exhibition space that displays the history of the post town and everyday items (please check opening hours and opening times).
• Seasonal scenery: The autumn leaves and the snow-covered streets in winter are particularly beautiful. Strolling through the quiet streets in the mornings and evenings is also very charming.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: Narai Station on the JR Chuo Main Line. The center of Narai-juku is only a 3-5 minute walk from the station.
• Access by train: Take the limited express or rapid train from Nagoya or Matsumoto towards Shiojiri. From Nagoya, it is convenient to use the limited express "Shinano" and transfer to Shiojiri or Narai (travel time varies depending on the route).
• Access by car: Access via national and prefectural roads from Shiojiri IC on the Chuo Expressway (approximately several tens of minutes from Shiojiri IC, depending on road congestion). There is a tourist parking lot within the town, but the number of spaces is limited, so be careful during busy periods.
• Bus: Local bus routes may pass through Narai-juku. Please check the timetable in advance to determine the tourist season and operating hours.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short walk: About 1 hour (if walking back and forth along the main streets to get a feel for the atmosphere).
• Leisurely sightseeing: 2-3 hours (including museum visits, meals, and souvenir shop tours).
• If you include photography and exploring the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (if you combine it with exploring the surrounding nature and other post towns).

Nearby spots

• Other post towns along the Kisoji route (e.g. Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku) are popular for travel by car or public transport.
• Tour a winery or sake brewery in Shiojiri City - sample and purchase local wines and sake.
• Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto City) — A short trip away, you can also visit this famous castle.
• The nature of the Kiso area (Mount Ontake, Mount Komagatake, etc.) - a great place to combine a trip with hiking and hot springs.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: Parking lots and restaurants can get crowded during Golden Week, autumn foliage season, and weekends due to the large number of tourists. We recommend arriving early during peak times.
• Manners: As much of the townscape is still home to active residential and commercial buildings, please be considerate when taking photos (avoiding the entry and exit of private property or residents, refraining from using flash or shouting, etc.).
• Cash and business information: Some small stores only accept cash and have limited opening hours. Some stores are closed on weekdays and during the winter, so it's a good idea to check in advance.
• Footing and clothing: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many old roads, cobblestone streets, and steps. Be careful in winter as the trail can be slippery due to ice and snow. There are also many slopes and stairs, and barrier-free access is limited.
• Climate: As this is a mountainous area, the weather is changeable and it can be cool in the mornings and evenings even in summer, so please dress appropriately.
• Garbage and Environmental Conservation: Please take your garbage home or dispose of it in designated areas. Please follow the rules to preserve the townscape.

Before visiting, it's a good idea to check the official tourist website or tourist information center for the latest information (events, opening hours, transportation information). Narai-juku is a place where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Edo period at a leisurely pace, so it's a good idea to take your time and stroll around.