Narai-juku is a historic post town located along the old Nakasendo road that once connected Kyoto and Edo. The village is known for its long main street lined with traditional wooden houses from the Edo period. Walking through the town feels like stepping into the past. The preserved street stretches for about one kilometer and is filled with old merchant houses, small cafés, local craft shops, and traditional buildings.

The lower part of the town, called Shitamachi, is one of the most photographed viewpoints in Narai-juku. Many of the well-known images of the village are taken from here looking down the long street of dark wooden buildings.

Walking the street slowly is really the main thing to do here. Arriving early in the morning before the shops opened IS GREAT, when the town is almost empty. It’s easy to imagine how travelers once passed through this same road centuries ago.

You’ll also find many small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. The Kiso region is famous for lacquerware, produced here for more than 400 years. Bowls, chopsticks, cups, and other pieces are displayed in many stores along the street.