Narai-juku
Known as a place more Kyoto than Kyoto itself Not in Nara, but in Nagano, with quaint streets and few people The ancient pine in the distance seems to take us back to the Edo period. πΎ Nakasendo Way A "highway" developed during the Edo period, connecting Nihonbashi in Tokyo and Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. π Kiso 11 Post Towns There are 11 post towns on the Nakasendo Way, and Narai-juku is one of them, designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Japan. π Transportation From Tokyo: Take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express for about 2 hours and 40 minutes, transfer at JR Shiojiri Station, and it's about a 25-minute ride to JR Narai Station. π· Photography Spots Search for Narai-juku Hanano-ya using navigation, and don't forget to bring a telephoto lens! π Shops There are many exquisite lacquerware shops on both sides of the street, with fine craftsmanship worth collecting as a souvenir. There are also many coffee shops; sit on the second floor and order a cup of coffee to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. #OffTheBeatenPath #JapanTravel #JapanTravelGuide #KyotoTravel #NaraTravel #LifeInJapan #NaraiJuku #NaganoJapan