By 工藤瑛志 / Eishi Kudou

In this evocative video from Eishi Kudou, viewers are transported to Narai-juku, one of the best-preserved post towns along the historic Nakasendo route in Japan. Referred to as the ‘Samurai Road,’ the Nakasendo connected Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo Period, serving as a major travel artery for samurai, merchants, and officials. Narai-juku, located in present-day Nagano Prefecture, offers a rare glimpse into Edo-period Japan with its traditional wooden buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and an atmosphere steeped in centuries-old history.

The video captures a serene walking tour through this iconic post town, showcasing its perfectly preserved architecture with dark wooden facades, sliding doors, and lattice windows. The town stretches over a kilometer, giving visitors and viewers a sense of the scale and importance of Narai-juku as a rest stop for travelers. Traditional inns, teahouses, and souvenir shops line the main street, many of which maintain their original appearance.

Kudou’s cinematography highlights the peaceful ambience of the town, with minimal narration allowing the sights and sounds of Narai-juku to speak for themselves. Scenes of winding streets, historic signage, and local crafts like lacquerware add to the authenticity of the journey. This video is a gentle, immersive exploration that makes you feel as though you're walking the Nakasendo path alongside travelers from centuries past.

For those interested in Japanese history, culture, and traditional townscapes, Narai-juku is a must-visit destination. Easily accessible by train via the JR Chuo Line to Narai Station, this post town is a popular and rewarding stop for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in Japan’s Edo-era culture. This video serves not only as a visual tour but also an invitation to explore one of Japan’s most culturally rich historical towns.