Nagano, Japan: Narai-juku

Lucky to experience Narai-juku on both late winter and early spring weather during my visit in March. 

I was not able to find an onsen ryokan to stay with in Narai, and just decided to stay in Matsumoto instead.  You can also opt to stay in Shiroishi station.

That morning, I missed the limited direct trains from Matsumoto to Narai. Thus, I have to change trains in Shiojiri station. What makes it complicated is that I entered Matsumoto using an IC, but there is no IC in Narai.  The driver also did not accept my cash.  So upon my return in the afternoon, I did request a fare adjustment in Shiroishi station, before heading back to Matsumoto. So, next time, don't be afraid of this kind of deal.  Just have your Google translate ready to explain it to the station counter.

Upon arrival in Narai station, they handed me an English map of the town.  There are also stamps available at the counter.

Please ensure to take note of your departure schedule or take a photo of the time table for your guidance on your way back.

And with heaven's blessings, it is snowing all throughout my stay in Narai.

For those who are not familiar yet, ensure to study the location and weather of the place you are going to.  To properly gear up and so you can enjoy your visit.

From the station, you can opt to use the restroom or leave your luggage on the next  building on your left.

Most of the shops will open late in the morning.  And I used the time to spend enjoying the traditional architecture of the place. Get there early, if you want a more serene scene.  

As mentioned in japan-guide, "It was the most wealthy post town of the Kiso Valley, and was sometimes referred to as "Narai of a Thousand Houses."

It was never crowded during my stroll in Narai.

While walking, I was lucky to be near a store that opens by 10am. I was the second visitor in Matsuya Sabo cafe.

Grandmother was very nice and understood my order.  There are coffee siphons, but I opted for the zenzai sweet set.The sweet soup aduki beans with rice mochi cake, with homemade pickles and green tea. The lacquerware bowl, green tea bowl and dishware were from the warehouse and are 200 years old.

Grandmother is so nice and even suggested that I show the design of the lid to get a better photo.  This is to appreciate the set of antiques she is using to serve the dishes.

The main road did not accumulate snow, but the shrubs and trees had snow already. 

At the back alley, I was able to visit the post office.  I already have the stamps, but I found a set that is so beautiful that I cannot help myself, so I still bought them.

There was a road closure, but it happened to be for the cars only.  They did allow the passers-by to proceed.

Near the historical landmark of water basin (鍵の手水場), that is what makes it the older Narai from the photos seen online.  Thankful for the roadside guides for allowing me to continue on walking.

As I had planned, my target was to walk until Shizume-jinja Shrine, and find my way back to the station.

For those seeking adventure, continue forward to progress on the Torii Pass Narai Trailhead.

Then, I got my lunch from Satsukian.  There is no English menu, but for travellers, please use your translator app to help the restaurant owners.

They also have toilet, but written in Japanese, so I use my translator app to ensure.

There are few shops open during Tuesday.  Compared to the crowded Kyoto, this place is so quiet, with few visitors, there are few locals and tourists.

Be considerate with the locals.  The main walking street is actually the main road for vehicles, so ensure everyone's safety and privacy.  Do not occupy the road. Always watch for moving vehicles as this is an active road.

Greet the street workers or the locals as you come across them.Keep your voices low as there are accommodation, restaurants and private residences in the main street.

Back to the station, you need to buy a ticket manually.  For Matsumoto or Shiojiri, you still need to take the stairs to go to the platform.  Actually, whatever platform you'll go to, you need to take the stairs.

 Overall, what makes my visit to this old post town more amazing is that apart from the old facade of the buildings, most of the photos have snow fall.

Please check my autumn visit in towns of Magome and Tsumago in Kiso Valley (2019), Ancient Cedar Avenue in Hakone (2019) and Seki Post Town (2024) in old Tokaido road .