By Journey Memoirs
Experience the serene side of rural Japan with this immersive walking tour through Suhara and Narai-juku in Nagano Prefecture. This silent, no-commentary video provides a high-definition look at the mountainous Japanese countryside on a rainy spring day, offering viewers an authentic sense of Japan’s tranquil life outside the city. The gentle sounds of rain, lush greenery, and narrow traditional streets paint a unique picture of Japan that travelers seldom see.
Narai-juku is part of the historic Nakasendo route, which connected Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo Period. These post towns (shukuba) serviced travelers crossing the mountains, offering lodging and regional specialties. Narai-juku is particularly famous for its well-preserved wooden buildings and atmospheric charm. Walking through this area, viewers will notice traditional architecture, quaint storefronts, and the quiet pace of village life even in inclement weather.
Suhara, another stop along the Nakasendo, shares similar historic features: old stone pathways, wooden inns, and forested surroundings. With its rain-soaked roads and distant views of misty mountains, the village gives an evocative perspective on rural living in central Japan. The video reveals the natural beauty and seasonal mood of Nagano’s villages, where daily life and centuries-old traditions coexist. For visitors considering travel beyond Japan’s cities, this tour presents a compelling reason to explore the lesser-known countryside of Central Honshu.