Yabuhara is the starting point for the historic Nakasendo trail that crosses Torii Pass and connects to Narai-juku. The trail follows part of the original Edo-period road used by travelers moving between Kyoto and Edo. From Yabuhara, the path gradually climbs through cedar forest toward Torii Pass before descending into Narai-juku.

The full walk usually takes about two to three hours depending on pace. Along the way you’ll pass forest paths, stone sections of the old highway, and small shrines linked to the historic route. I liked starting the walk here because it feels like entering the mountains before arriving in the preserved post town of Narai.