What to know
During the Edo Period (1603–1868), Narai (奈良井) marked the halfway point between Kyoto and Edo for travelers on the Nakasendo Route. It was the wealthiest post town in the Kiso Valley, earning the nickname "Narai of a Thousand Houses." Visitors will understand why when comparing Narai to other former post towns in the area—the preserved houses stretch much farther here than elsewhere.
The long walk down Narai's main street is engaging, though the restored houses look quite similar. Among the buildings, two former residences are open to the public, while others house souvenir shops, restaurants, and minshuku. Narai's main drawbacks are that the Honjin and Wakihonjin (the main inns of old) no longer exist, and vehicular traffic is allowed on the street.
Narai is a station on the JR Chuo Line, 25 minutes south of Shiojiri Station and 20 minutes north of Kiso-Fukushima Station by local train. Limited express trains between Nagoya and Nagano do not stop at Narai Station. Instead, transfer to a local train at Shiojiri or Kiso-Fukushima.
Narai Station is at the town's northern end. You can explore the entire town on foot from the station. If arriving by car, the most convenient parking lot is at the town's southern end.
How to get to and around the Kiso Valley
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 December to March)
- Closed
- Mondays from Dec to Mar (or next day if Mon is a national holiday)
- Admission
- 300 yen (~$1.92)
- English name
- Original name
- Narai
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.