Nagano > Naraiyuku (奈良井宿): The village between the Japanese alps
※Description:
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Narai-juku (奈良井宿) is one of the most iconic destinations along the ancient Nakasendō (中山道) route, which connected Kyoto (京都) with Edo (江戸, present-day Tokyo) during the Edo period (1603-1868). This picturesque town in Nagano Prefecture (長野県) offers an experience that transports visitors centuries back in time, surrounded by the majesty of mountains and crystal-clear rivers.
Narai-juku was one of the most important rest stations on the Nakasendō Trail due to its strategic location near the Torii Pass (鳥居峠), one of the most difficult sections of the trail. Its prosperity during the Edo period is reflected in the long rows of traditional dark wooden houses, many of which have been carefully preserved. These structures housed inns, shopkeepers and merchants’ residences, offering a unique insight into the lifestyle of the time.
What to see
The town is ideal for exploring on foot, enjoying its peaceful atmosphere and history. Among the highlights is the Narai-jinja Shrine (奈良井神社), a sacred place that has protected the village since ancient times. You can also visit the Nakamura Residence Museum (中村邸), which shows what life was like for a prominent family in the region.
Another attraction is the Kiso no Ohashi Bridge (木曽の大橋), one of the longest wooden bridges in Japan, which connects the village to the surrounding natural areas, ideal for hiking.
Narai-juku is surrounded by lush nature that changes with each season: cherry blossoms in spring, green landscapes in summer, red leaves in autumn and a blanket of snow in winter. This combination of history and nature makes Narai-juku an unforgettable destination for those looking for an authentic experience in Japan.
※NTRanking: 8.0 / 10
Although not as well-known as other tourist destinations, its authenticity, well-preserved Edo architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a special place for those who wish to get away from the busiest destinations.
Tourist influx is moderate, and it is common to find more Japanese travelers than foreigners, which adds a charm to the experience.
※How to Get There:
・From Nagoya (about 2 hours):
Take the JR Shinano Limited Express train from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅).
Get off at Kiso-Fukushima Station (木曽福島駅), a ride that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From there, transfer to the JR Chuo Line heading towards Shiojiri and get off at Narai Station (奈良井駅), which will take about an additional 20 minutes.
From Narai Station, access to the historic district is via the JR Shinano Limited Express train.
・From Nagano (about 1 hour 30 minutes):
Take the JR Shinano Limited Express train from Nagano Station (長野駅).
Get off at Shiojiri Station (塩尻駅), a ride that takes about 1 hour.
From Shiojiri, change to the JR Chuo Line heading towards Nakatsugawa and get off at Narai Station (奈良井駅), which will take about 25 minutes.
From Narai Station, the historic district is just a short walk away.
※Address:
Narai, Shiojiri, Nagano 399-6303
