2025 Shiojiri Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Narai-juku (奈良井宿) is a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendō route, offering a glimpse into Japan's Edo period. Located in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, it's an ideal day trip from Matsumoto, taking approximately one hour by train. 🏯 Step Back in Time Once known as "Narai of 1,000 buildings," Narai-juku was the thirty-fourth of the sixty-nine stations of the Nakasendō and the second of eleven stations along the Kisoji. Its well-preserved wooden buildings and traditional architecture have earned it the designation of an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. 🚶 Things to Do in Narai-juku Stroll the Historic Street: Walk along the main street lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and inns, capturing the essence of Edo-period Japan. Visit Local Museums: Explore small museums showcasing tools and artifacts from the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras, providing insight into the daily life of the town's past residents. Torii Pass Hike: For the adventurous, take a walk on the Torii Pass (鳥居峠 Torii Tōge), a scenic trail that was part of the old Nakasendō route. Steam Locomotive Display: On the opposite side of the railway line by the car park, there's an old C12 199 steam train on display, made in 1938 and serving the Kiso Valley before being scrapped in 1974. 🍜 Local Delicacies Narai-juku offers various eateries where you can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes. Savor local specialties like soba noodles and regional sweets while soaking in the historical ambiance. 🛤️ Getting There From Matsumoto: Take the JR Chūō Main Line towards Nakatsugawa and get off at Narai Station. The journey takes about one hour. 📜 Interesting Facts About Narai-juku: 1. “Narai of 1,000 Houses” Narai-juku was once the longest post town on the entire Nakasendō route, earning the nickname “Narai of 1,000 houses.” It stretched over 1 km, lined with traditional wooden merchant homes and inns. 2. Part of the Edo Five Routes Narai-juku was a stop on the Nakasendō, one of the five main highways during the Edo period that connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. Unlike the coastal Tōkaidō route, the Nakasendō ran through the mountains. 3. No Modern Wires on Main Street The main street is preserved without visible power lines or modern signage to keep the authentic Edo-period look, making it incredibly photogenic and atmospheric. 4. Pilgrims and Samurai Stayed Here During the Edo period, Narai-juku hosted all kinds of travelers — from samurai, merchants, and monks, to feudal lords on their sankin-kōtai (alternate attendance) journeys to and from Edo. 5. You Can Stay in a Real Edo-Era Ryokan Some of the guesthouses in Narai-juku are centuries old and still host overnight guests, offering a truly immersive historical experience. Narai-juku offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan's historical charm, making it a must-visit for those exploring the Nagano region. ✨ Don’t forget to look for handmade souvenirs while being there!

📍 Location and Background Naraijuku is located in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, and is one of the most well-preserved and representative post towns along the Nakasendo route. It is about a 3-4 hour drive from Nagoya or Tokyo. During the Edo period, it served as an important station and commercial hub, and today it retains approximately 1 kilometer of ancient wooden streets, exuding a strong Edo-era charm. 🏘️ Old Town Atmosphere Wooden Architecture The 1-kilometer-long street is lined with traditional black lacquered wooden houses and white walls, creating a sense of stepping back in time. Shops and Restaurants Stores sell traditional crafts, kimono rentals, local snacks, and specialties, allowing visitors to buy souvenirs or experience strolling in a kimono. Cultural Activities Regular festivals, tea ceremonies, and traditional performances are held, especially lively during spring and autumn. 🚶♀️ Transportation Options By JR Chuo Main Line Take a rapid train from Nagoya or Matsumoto Station to Narai Station, approximately 1.5 hours. The old town is a 5-minute walk from the station. By Car The route is straightforward, and there is parking near the old town. However, it can be crowded on holidays, so arriving early is recommended to avoid the crowds. By Bus Local buses connect Shiojiri City and other attractions, making it convenient for exploring nearby destinations. 🍡 Food Recommendations Soba Noodles Naraijuku is famous for Shinshu soba. Try the hearty, chewy handmade soba at one of the old town’s traditional restaurants. Pickled Vegetables Featuring Nagano’s specialty pickled vegetables, these tangy and sweet treats are perfect as a side dish. Local Sweets Sweet chestnut cakes and red bean dumplings are delightful snacks to enjoy while strolling. 💡 Travel Tips Wear Comfortable Shoes The old town has cobblestone streets, so flat or athletic shoes are recommended to avoid discomfort. Avoid Peak Holiday Times Weekends and festivals can be crowded; visiting on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience. Try Kimono Rental Several shops in the old town offer kimono rentals, making it a fantastic cultural experience to stroll in traditional attire. Respect Local Life Keep noise levels down, respect residents and shopkeepers, and avoid loud conversations. Photography Etiquette Take photos when the streets are less crowded, and avoid disturbing shopkeepers or other visitors. 💬 Personal Reflections Stepping into Naraijuku feels like traveling back in time. Walking through the tranquil wooden streets, hearing the soft rustle of wind against wooden windows and cobblestones, brings a sense of calm. At dusk, the golden glow of the setting sun bathes the rooftops, enveloping the entire street in warmth and nostalgia. This serene and timeless atmosphere invites you to slow down and savor the traces of Edo-period life. Naraijuku is not only ideal for cultural enthusiasts but also for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a pure, traditional Japanese slow travel experience.

📍Naraijuku, Nagano Prefecture The 34th post town on the Nakasendo road. The entire townscape has been designated as a nationally important preservation district for groups of traditional buildings, and the buildings and streets that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period make you feel like you've traveled back in time. I will introduce my actual visit and stroll around the town along with my experiences. _ _ _ _ _ ⚫︎Access Car: Parking available Train: From Kanto → Shiojiri Station → Naraijuku Station From Kansai → Kiso Fukushima Station → Naraijuku Station ⚫︎Business hours Open every day/9:00-17:00 _ _ _ _ _ Naraijuku has an atmosphere that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. The winding streets are a distinctive feature, and you can enjoy traditional crafts such as lacquerware and combs, as well as local delicacies such as gohei mochi and Shinshu soba 🫘🪀 There are also several renovated cafes, and "Shukuba Cafe Izumiya" is a building that has been passed down from generation to generation and has a history of about 180 years. The sweets are handmade and the coffee is roasted on the spot, so you can enjoy a refined taste and elegant time ☕️ ⚫︎Note Lunch sells out quickly, so it is recommended to enter early. Be careful when using public transportation, as IC cards cannot be used on trains. Use this as a reference for your next travel plan 🔖 #Domestic travel #Nagano #Nagano sightseeing #Narai-juku #Shukuba town #Free hotel stay

#DomesticTravelRecord Naraijuku is one of the three major post towns in Japan, the other two being Tsumagojuku and Magomejuku. I wrote that 😇 Tehe combs are famous and there were a lot of good combs for sale. Another thing I saw a lot was soba noodles! Soba noodles made with fresh air and water must be delicious! Many places were closed on Thursdays, so I couldn't eat them, but I'll report on them next time I go 😊 There is also a Chinjinja Shrine in Naraijuku, and when I looked it up 📖🖊, it is said that an epidemic broke out in Naraijuku, and in order to calm it down, they started a ritual to invite the main deity from Katori Shrine in Chiba Prefecture. ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Spot. Nakasendo Narai-juku 📍. Narai, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture 🅿️ Free parking Kiso Ohashi Bridge East Parking Lot (National Highway Side), 12 regular cars, 3 handicapped cars Kiso Ohashi Bridge West Parking Lot (Railway Side) 51 regular cars, 1 handicapped car Roadside station Naraijuku Parking Lot (north of Kiso Ohashi Bridge) 15 large vehicles, 2 medium-sized vehicles (microbuses), 28 regular cars, 2 spaces for disabled people🅿️ Paid parking lotNarai Station Parking Lot 15 regular cars Cost: 500 yen *No parking on August 12th every year due to the summer festivalNarai Gonbe Parking Lot 8 large vehicles / Cost: 2000 yen (microbus: 1500 yen) 83 regular cars (13 spaces in the first parking lot, 70 spaces in the second parking lot) / Cost: 500 yenIf you come by train, take JR Chuo Line Narai Station. ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈#Comments are welcome #Want to go with the family #Naraijuku #Nagano sightseeing #Lemon8 Travel Academy model. @Rina Japanese travel tour

~Nagano Prefecture~ Naraijuku ☑️The retro townscape is wonderful♡ The town was also the setting for the TV drama series "Ohisama"! A town where you can feel the beauty of Japan. ☑️A historic post town! 1km along the Narai River! The longest post town in Japan! It once flourished with travelers passing by on the road! It was known as "Narai Senken" and was the busiest place on the Kiso Road! ☑️A retro atmosphere that still retains traces of the Edo period, such as the eaves lights of the inns and the Senbonkoshi lattice. You can feel the timeless atmosphere. Useful for your trip to Nagano Prefecture ◎ 📍Naraijuku 399-6303 Narai, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture #0 yen travel #japantrip #japantravel #japan #Nagano Prefecture #Nagano sightseeing #Nagano Prefecture tourist spots #Nagano trip

Narai juku, nestled within the picturesque Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. As one of the most well-preserved and charming examples of its kind, Narai juku beckons travelers to step back in time. Its strategic location amidst lush mountains and pristine rivers made it a pivotal point along the route. A good and peaceful walk in a historic place that seems to be hidden in the middle of nowhere. Some locals speaks decent English. Friendly people everywhere #songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#foodphotography#langkawi#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด

#Sakura2024 🌸 The ancient Edo period village Narai Juku A village that still preserves ancient houses, stretching along the Narai River. You can enjoy walking around the village. 🏡The village is open as souvenir shops and restaurants for tourists. There are areas for taking pictures at various points. ❄️The village starts in the valley. The average temperature is 7-15C. 🏘️Narai juku Nagano Japan 🚂Jr Shiojiri Line Narai Station #japan #naganoprefecture #traveljapan #sakura2024

#Sakura2024 🏡 Check-in point of the ancient village of Narai Juku (Narai Juku) 🏘️The bridge across the Narai River, the wooden bridge Kiso Ohashi, a quiet park suitable for stopping by to take beautiful check-in photos. If you come to Narai, don't forget to come to this point. 🚞🚖Travel Private car Or take the Jr train, the station is right in front of the village. 📍Location Narai Juku, Narai, Shiojiri, Nagano, Japan #TravelJapan #japan #naganoprefecture

To Naraijuku in Nagano. Naraijuku is located on the Nakasendo road, a highway connecting Tokyo (Edo) and Kyoto. Apparently, during the Edo period, it was a prosperous post town with many travelers, merchants, feudal lord processions, and shogunate officials passing through! The townscape stretches for about 1 kilometer and is registered as a nationally important traditional buildings preservation district, offering a spectacular view that is hard to find anywhere else. 💓 The atmosphere of the post town from the Edo period remains, and just walking around makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. ✨ ⁡ It was popular with many Japanese and foreign tourists alike. 🫶 I happened to walk into a souvenir shop and chatted with the owner's grandmother over tea, which was very relaxing. 🍵 There are also many food shops, so it's nice to be able to eat while walking around. ✨ It was a relaxing spot where you can experience the good old Japanese scenery! #NaganoTourism #NaganoTrip #Naraijuku

Narai-Juku, an old town in Nagano Prefecture 🇯🇵 The surrounding atmosphere is lined with old wooden houses. Still preserving the ancient atmosphere of an old Japanese ryokan. Making you feel the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Along the way, there are souvenir shops and snacks. Including various savory dishes, making us spend time here without looking at the time because it is quiet and the air is very good. Had a chance to stop by a roadside restaurant. Let me tell you that it is very delicious. It has an old Japanese style. 🚃 You can take the JR Chuo Line and get off at Narai Station. 🌸 Travel period April 2023 #tripแจกโรงแรมฟรี #naganojapan #เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น #ญี่ปุ่นน่าเที่ยว

Many travelers rarely include Naraijuku in their plans when planning their trips to Nagoya and surrounding attractions. In fact, Naraijuku is a small town located between Kiso Fukushima and Matsumoto Station. In ancient times, it was one of the "11 Kiso Road Posts" along the Nakasendo Road connecting Edo and Kyoto. Therefore, visiting the area can allow you to experience the Edo culture and historical style. Naraijuku is mainly composed of one street, with neat and antique wooden buildings on both sides, which gives it a very nostalgic feel. The buildings are all accommodations, restaurants and gift shops. You can buy the famous wooden products, dried flowers, lacquerware, etc. here, and you can also try the chewy and delicious five-layer cakes. Walking along the street for about one kilometer, there are six roadside wells. When you come across one, you can scoop up a mouthful of well water to drink, which is clear and cool. Compared to Kyoto, which is crowded with people and full of commercial elements, I believe Narai is more simple and traditional. I recommend that you wear a kimono and stroll around and check in in this remote Narai-juku in a relaxed manner! #JapanTravel #Edo Period #Must-visit spots for taking kimono photos #Leisurely #Good place to check in

#TravelJapan 🚂 Narai-juku, Nagano City An ancient village with an old town atmosphere from the Eda period A village that preserves traditional old houses and is a pedestrian street that can be walked for more than 1 kilometer. Experience the originality of the village and have a quiet atmosphere. 🏘 The village has ryokan-style accommodations, restaurants, local products, handmade products for sale along the way. 🚂 You can travel by JR train and get off at Narai Juku Station or by private car. #japantravel #japan #nagano #naraijuku

#Japan Attractions #OverseasTravel #Japan Travel Narai-juku, located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan🇯🇵, is an Edo period-style Japanese town that cannot be missed, with many tourists visiting it every year! Nara Iju is on Nakayama Road, which connects Tokyo and Kyoto in the past. The rooms and buildings on both sides are antique, preserved intact, mostly wooden🪵 style, so it has a very "little Kyoto" feeling✨, so it's like traveling back to the Edo period in Japan, it's a special experience! 👍🏻 And Nara Iju also has many shops and restaurants, good to stroll Nara Ijuku 📍399-6303 Narai-juku, Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture

#Japan Attractions #OverseasTravel #Japan Travel When you come to Japan🇯🇵 Nara Iju, you must visit Kiso Bridge! This bridge is located next to the station and is a half-moon arch bridge made of wood🌉, so the structure of the wooden bridge is grand and magnificent, and full of aesthetics💕 Go to the center of the bridge, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the river! 👍🏻 Kiso Bridge 📍399-6303 Narai-juku, Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture

#Japan Attractions #OverseasTravel #Japan Travel Located in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan🇯🇵 In addition to Nara Ijuku is very popular, but also the town shrine is a must-visit attraction! Before walking into the town shrine, you have to pass through a very large red torii ⛩️, and after going up to the high platform, you can 😌 see the medieval beauty of Nara Ijuku, beautiful scenery 💕 There are not too many tourists coming to this shrine in the morning, it feels particularly peaceful, just enjoying the view of the big tree🌳 and praying for blessings is already very comfortable😌 Town Shrine (Shiojiri, Japan) 📍〒399-6303 Narai, Shiojiri, Nagano

#Japan Attractions #OverseasTravel #Japan Travel When you come to Nara Ijuku in Nagano Prefecture, you can visit the Kiso Bridge. The most special thing about this wooden bridge is its architectural structure! It is made from trees 🌲 that are over 300 years old and is one of the largest wooden bridges without bridges in Japan🇯🇵! You can see the wooden structure layer by layer under the bridge up close, which is very special, and also very aesthetic! You can also see the stream of Nara Igawa from this bridge. The Great Bridge 📍 Nara Well, Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture

#EasternJapan Naraijuku is located in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, and is designated as a traditional buildings preservation district. The townscape from the post town era remains intact, and you will feel as if you have traveled back in time. There is a museum from that time and accommodation facilities, so you can enjoy yourself at your own pace☺️ #Breathtaking views #Couple trip #Historical sites #Summer trip #Nagano Prefecture #Naraijuku

#QuintessaCampaign From Miyanokoshi Station at Yoshinaka-kan, go two more stops to reach the miraculous town of Narai-juku. There are guides at the station who will kindly guide you there and back. Once you enter the street, you'll enter a different world. On both sides, the streets from the Edo period stretch for about a kilometer! It just goes on and on. The sound of wind chimes fluttering in the wind blowing through from the mountains. You'll feel like you've traveled back in time, and the power of wood will soothe you.

Shiojiri Station is the starting point when heading from Matsumoto to Naraijuku, Kiso Fukushima, and Nagoya. The Shinano Limited Express runs frequently, but travelers taking local trains may have to wait a little while. A nice touch on the platform. Shiojiri is a wine producing region, and there are beautifully laid out barrels and vineyards! Please note that Suica cannot be used on this line.

Looking at the name Narai-juku, I wondered if it had something to do with the famous "Nara". After researching, I found out that Narai-juku was an old post town, which means it could also be called a "hotel district" today. In Narai-juku, long-established inns and houses with latticed windows remain as they were in the post town days, and walking around here makes me feel like I've traveled back in time to the Edo period. Due to COVID-19, there were not many tourists this time, and some stores were closed. It's a bit disappointing, but with fewer people, the quiet Narai-juku is even more beautiful. Access: From Tokyo to Shiojiri Station, then take the JR Chuo Main Line to Narai-juku Station It's a three-minute walk from the station. It's very easy to get to. #trip2022

Nakasendo Road connected Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period. Right in the middle of the road, in the Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture, is Japan's longest post town, Narai-juku, which stretches about 1 km from north to south. The townscape is so atmospheric that it feels like you've traveled back in time to the Edo period, with long-established inns and latticed houses that are just as they were in the post town, and people's lives still thrive. The charm of Narai-juku is that vestiges of the Edo period remain in various places in the town, such as historic temples and shrines, and water sources that have quenched the thirst of travelers. Please come and visit us! ! #Couple trip #Gourmet #Historical sites #Free spots #Japan Genki Project 2021 #Historical sites #Amazing nature #Most beautiful guesthouses #Summer trip #Gourmet trip #Trip with children

Looking for a perfect escape from Nagoya? The old Nakasendo Trail is one of the best ways to see traditional Japan — historic post towns, Edo-period houses, and peaceful nature. 🌿 📅 Itinerary Morning 🚆 Take a direct train from Nagoya to Nakatsugawa Station. ℹ️ Stop at the Tourist Information Center (just on the left from the station). They provide a walking map of the old trail — much better than relying on Google Maps, which often leads to highways. 🥾 Walk the 8 km old pilgrim path from Nakatsugawa → Magome. The trail passes small streets, wooden houses, and rice fields. It takes time because the views are stunning and you’ll want to stop for pictures 📸 and don’t forget to buy ice cream on the way from a small family shop, with lots of sea glass souvenirs. Afternoon 🏮 In Magome, stroll through the preserved Edo-style street, grab local snacks, or send a postcard. From here you can continue on foot or check the local bus schedule (also available at the information point) to save time. 🌸 Next stop: Tsumago, quieter than Magome but full of authentic charm. Walk through the streets, visit traditional houses, and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Evening 🏯 If you have extra energy, continue to Narai-juku, another post town with open houses where you can peek into Edo-style interiors. From here, make your way back to the train station for the return trip to Nagoya. 🍙 Food Tips Try local snacks in Magome & Tsumago — rice crackers, soba, and seasonal sweets 🍡. Convenience stores near Nakatsugawa Station are good for grabbing water or bento before starting. 💡 Practical Tips Wear comfortable shoes 👟 — it’s a lot of walking. Trails can get busy, so start early for more peaceful views. Some small shops & bus tickets are cash-only 💴. Check bus times carefully if you want to combine walking + bus. #magome #naraijuku #tsumagojuku #nagoya #japan

Step into a real-life time machine at Narai-juku, Shiojiri. Nestled along the historic Tōkaidō road (the OG route between Tokyo and Kyoto), this little Japanese masterpiece is an absolute must for your bucket list, fam. Narai-juku is straight-up legendary for its old-school samurai town vibes. Picture charming wooden houses, cozy shops with hand-picked souvenirs, and cute cafés run by the sweetest locals. Even cooler? Some traditional inns (called ryokan) are inside refurbished Edo period buildings, so you can literally sleep where travelers did centuries ago! 😍 You can’t miss the local sake brewery—a super chill spot for tasting craft Japanese rice wine right in the heart of history. Plus, the whole town is packed with aesthetic photo ops and friendly facces. Trust—this is the spot for your Japan travel mood board! Add to your wishlist on trip.com and get ready for a journey that’s equal parts nostalgia and adventure. #historicallandmarks #localguides #japan #deliciousfood

🇯🇵Matsumoto - Kamikochi 3 Days 2 Nights This route has it all: forests, mountains, museums, cafes, and ancient towns! We stopped by Matsumoto, a city of art and classical music, a must-visit before heading up to Kamikochi. Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, this city is often visited overnight before heading up to Kamikochi, just an hour away. ☀️The weather is beautiful all year round, and it's filled with art, music, and history. It's also the birthplace of the world-famous Yayoi Kusama, known to Thais as "Auntie Lai Dot." There are chic cafes, live music bars, and numerous galleries that art lovers will love. Let's take a look at where we've been. Our itinerary: Tokyo > Matsumoto > Kamikochi > Matsumoto > Narai-juku > Tokyo 1️⃣DAY 1 – Tokyo - Matsumoto -Soba Sababiyori, the ultimate thin soba noodles! -Sioribi Cafe, a vintage cafe we ​​stumbled upon by chance! -Ceramika, a chic ceramics shop that's not exactly Japanese. -Hoshino Resorts KAI Matsumoto, a luxurious ryokan with private onsen. -Diner: Full-course Kaiseki course. 2️⃣DAY 2 – Matsumoto - Kamikochi - Spend the day in Kamikochi, then return to Matsumoto for a night. 3️⃣DAY 3 – Matsumoto - Narai-juku - Tokyo - Send a postcard for 100 yen per stamp. -Matsumoto City Museum of Art -Narai-juku, an ancient city before heading back to Tokyo (50 minutes from Matsumoto). Matsumoto, a small city we love. Actually, we felt like 2 nights was too short! There are still plenty of places I'd like to visit, like Nakamachi Shopping Street, a wasabi farm, and an ice cream farm. For those planning a trip, I recommend staying for 3 nights. 🚄 Easy access from Tokyo: just take the JR Azusa train from Shinjuku and you'll arrive in Matsumoto in 2.5 hours. (But we used Tourkit for the most comfortable experience, eliminating the need to carry your own luggage.) 📌 If you're looking for a private trip without the hassle of organizing it yourself, give Tourkit a try. We were very impressed. 🔴 Watch the full video in the comments. #GographJourney #Gograph #tourkit #matsumoto #kamikochi

Real grape vineyard at Shiojiri station in Nagano. They grow both white (Niagara) & red (Merlot) grapes. 😆#travel #myitinerary #nagano #vineyard

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck #VisitNaraiJukuFollowingTheSamuraiFootprints Narai-juku, an ancient city in Nagano Prefecture ... In the past, it was a transit town on the Nakasendo Route between Kyoto and Tokyo. Each city had numerous rest stops for travelers. Narai-juku is number 34 of the 69 rest stops on the Nakasendo Route. ... My sister and I chose this place because it was on our way from Nagoya to Matsumoto, so we stopped by for a quick visit. Getting off the train is easy, and it's a short walk to Narai-juku. I also noticed that there's a Jyuukenden Loop Bus, but walking around is more enjoyable. ... Narai-juku is a transit town in Nagano Prefecture and is worth a stop to experience authentic Japanese culture. According to some reports, it offers a truly authentic Edo period atmosphere. The road is surrounded by mountains. The old houses in Narai-juku stretch for over a kilometer, and they've been carefully preserved. It would be amazing to walk around town in samurai attire or a kimono. We also stopped for lunch here. The restaurant is very cute, located in the middle of the street. The atmosphere inside is also pleasant. Getting there: From JR Nagoya Station, take the JR Chuo Line to Narai Station. Some trains require two transfers, and you have to pay an additional fee to the driver before getting off. I took the two-transfer trip. **If you have luggage, you can leave it at the station. There's a fee of about 500 yen.

#holidayitinerary ### **Why Narai-juku is a Must-Visit** Stepping into Narai-juku feels like entering a living Edo-period postcard! This 17th-century post town, once the wealthiest stop on the Nakasendo Trail, is a UNESCO-protected gem where time stands still. As a solo traveler, I loved wandering its **1km-long main street** of preserved wooden houses, sipping matcha in quaint teahouses, and soaking up the serene mountain vibes—all without the crowds of Kyoto or Tokyo . ### **A Glimpse into History** Narai-juku thrived as the midpoint between Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto, earning the nickname "Narai of 1,000 Houses" for its bustling inns and shops. Today, it’s a **perfectly preserved slice of old Japan**, with artisan workshops, soba noodle stalls, and even a 1930s steam locomotive on display . Don’t miss the **Shizume-jinja Shrine** or the quirky **Hito-to Antique Store** (open just 5 days a month!) for unique Edo-era finds . ### **Solo Traveler Tips** 1. **Timing is Key**: Visit **spring–autumn** for lush greenery or fiery foliage. Winter is magical but freezing (-8°C!), and many shops close . 2. **Transport Hacks**: From Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line to Shiojiri, then transfer to Narai Station (3 hours total). Use a **Japan Rail Pass** to save costs . 3. **Eat Like a Local**: Try **toji soba** (buckwheat noodles dipped in hot broth) at そば処山なか or warm up with red bean **oyaki dumplings** . 4. **Pack Light**: The town is walkable, but wear comfy shoes—the **Torii Pass** hike (if you dare!) is icy in winter . 5. **Stay Connected**: Free Wi-Fi at the tourist info center, but English signage is limited—download a translation app . ### **Final Thoughts** Narai-juku is a solo traveler’s dream: safe, photogenic, and steeped in history. Whether you’re snapping pics under the **Kiso Bridge** or chatting with craftsmen in their workshops, this town whispers tales of samurai and merchants long gone. Don’t just visit Japan—*time-travel* through it here! **#SoloJapan #NaraiJukuMagic #EdoEscape #HiddenJapan #TravelBackInTime** *Pro Tip: Arrive by 8am to have the misty streets all to yourself!* 🌄

[Narai-juku, Nakasendo (Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings) | Nagano Prefecture "The atmosphere of Edo still flows. Experience the 'real post town' as you walk."] — Narai-juku is located at the foot of Torii Pass, a difficult spot on the Nakasendo. A rare post town where the streetscape of the Edo period remains intact for over 1km. This is a place where time flows, not just "reproduced," but "real." There are views that make you want to take a camera, but the best way to experience the atmosphere is to walk around. More than a tourist spot, it's a place where you can experience the feeling of "stepping into culture." ⸻ 📍【Location & Access】 ・Address: Narai, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture ・Access: A short walk from JR Chuo Main Line "Narai Station" (center of town) ・By car: About 40 minutes from Shiojiri IC (parking available) 🕰️【Free to visit】 ・You can walk around the streets 24 hours a day ・Most shops and museums are open from 9:00 to 17:00 (some shops are closed in winter) 💰【Cost】 ・Walking around the town is free ・There is an entrance fee of several hundred yen for "Kiso Bridge" and "Naraijuku Museum" ⸻ 🏯Recommended points • A streetscape that "realistically" retains the atmosphere of Edo 　→ No electric poles, traffic lights, or flashy signs. Just walking around will put you in a good mood • There are rows of wooden townhouses and lacquerware shops → Each house is built differently, giving you a sense of the artisan culture • The Kiso Bridge is a great photo spot → A curved bridge made entirely of cypress. It's picturesque with the mountains in the background • There are also museums and old-style cafes scattered around → The whole town is like a museum, and it's fun to take a detour ⸻ 🎒 Tips ・Morning hours are the best, with few people and clear air ・Cold weather precautions are essential from winter to early spring (snowfall is also possible) ・The street is a single road, so even just walking leisurely from one end to the other is satisfying ・If you also go on the nearby Torii Pass hike, you can experience both nature and history ・Local lacquerware and woodwork are of a quality that exceeds their price. Check early if you're going to buy them ⸻ #Naraijuku #Nagano Prefecture #Absolutely Free Trip