Narai-juku

Most prosperous of the eleven post towns along the Kiso Valley section of the Nakasendo highway. Stretching nearly one kilometer, its wooden buildings with latticed facades (senbon-goushi) and overhanging eaves have been preserved virtually intact since the Edo period. Unlike more famous Magome and Tsumago, Narai remains a living town, residents still occupy the historic buildings, and lacquerware artisans work in traditional workshops. The entire town is a National Important Preservation District.