Narai-juku

It is Japan's longest post town, stretching about 1 km along the old Nakasendo Route. Located at the highest elevation among the 11 inns on the Kisoji Route, which is known for its perilous passes, the town used to be so crowded with travelers that it was called "Narai Senken (Narai of One Thousand Buildings)”. The townscape retains strong Edo period traces, such as houses with "senbon-goushi (a thousand of vertical grids)" lattices and inn eaves lights, and the entire town has been designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

It is divided into three areas along the route from the south: Kanmachi, Nakamachi, and Shimomachi. The main camp, side camps, and wholesale stores were located in Nakamachi, the town's center, at the time. There are shrines at both the north and south ends of the town and one in Nakamachi, as well as six drinking fountains and five temples known as the "Five Temples of Narai" on the mountain side of the street.

Another highlight is the various systems used to protect this post town from enemy invasion. A curved road called "Kaginote" separates Kanmachi and Nakamachi; a stream called "Yokomizu" separates Nakamachi and Shimomachi; and in Shimomachi, a stone wall and earthen mound called "Masugata" are built in a quadrilateral shape.

Along the road are many stores and restaurants selling local cuisine, sweets, and folk crafts, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll while feeling the history. There are also facilities where visitors can learn about the history of Narai-juku, such as the Nakamura Residence, a former comb wholesaler that still retains its original appearance, and the Kamitoiya Museum, which displays old documents and other historical materials.