A town that feels like travelling back to Edo era (Just one hour from Matsumoto)

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!