Strolling Through Thousand-Grid Lattice Streets, Eating Gohei Mochi and Having Handmade Buckwheat Noodle Lunch
About this spot
The 34th post town on the Nakasendo route, Narai-juku boasts one of Japan's finest preserved Edo-period streetscapes stretching for approximately 1 km. Once so prosperous it was called 'Narai Sengen' (Narai of a Thousand Houses), it is now designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings, with traditional merchant houses featuring thousand-grid lattice windows and overhanging eaves still lining the streets. Water stations that once refreshed traveling merchants dot the streetside, and you can enjoy exploring shops selling lacquerware, buckwheat noodle restaurants, and gohei mochi vendors. Early morning hours mean fewer visitors, allowing you to have the peaceful post-town atmosphere all to yourself.
Tips
Just a short walk from JR Narai Station, the street is flat and easy to navigate with a baby carriage. By car, use the parking area on the outskirts of the post town. Shops open sequentially from morning, so it's recommended to walk to the end of the street first, then return to shops that caught your interest.
Best time to visit
Approximately 3.5 hours required. Late morning (around 9 AM) has few visitors and is ideal for photography.
Access & map
〒399-6303 Nagano Prefecture, Shiojiri City, Narai
Model course featuring this spot
Narai-juku: A Stroll Through Kiso Road Post Town
Nagano
Explore features & model courses
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