Narai - Travel & Tourism Guide Narai - Japon

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Located 45 minutes by train from Matsumoto, Narai, which was once an important post office, has managed to retain many architectural features from the Edo period. It has been rebuilt and restored, but has escaped the mass tourism that has affected Tsumago and Magome. The best preserved area is south of the station, about 15 minutes' walk away. Along the Nakasendō, you can admire the old houses that retain their sarugashiras (carved monkey heads) overhanging the eaves, and the springs that allowed locals to supply water to travelers. The side streets lead to temples and shrines at the foot of the hills.