Nara: Step Into Edo-Era Streets in Imai’s Heritage Town

Nara Prefecture , Japan

Nara: Step Into Edo-Era Streets in Imai’s Heritage Town

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About this experience

Discover a side of Japan few travelers ever see with this guided tour of Imai Town—one of the country’s best-preserved historic merchant districts. Unlike touristy replicas, Imai is a living, breathing town with centuries-old wooden homes, moated streets, and deep cultural roots.

Your expert guide will lead you through beautifully preserved residences, temples, and hidden gems, sharing stories of merchant life, Edo-period architecture, and local traditions. It’s a rare chance to step into the past while experiencing authentic daily life in a town where history and community still thrive.

With full English guidance and access to places off the beaten path, this experience offers a meaningful connection to Japan’s rich heritage—perfect for curious and culturally minded travelers.

Available options

Nara: Step Into Edo-Era Streets in Imai’s Heritage Town

What's included

Professional guide

Guided walking tour of Imai-chō

Insight into Japan’s merchant history and local life

Detailed itinerary

Begin your exploration of Imai Town at Hanairaka, the Imai Machinami Exchange Center.
Housed in a beautifully restored Meiji-era building, Hanairaka serves as both a welcome center and mini-museum.
Here, you can learn about the town’s history through maps, models, and exhibitions—making it the perfect starting point before stepping into the historic streets.
Friendly staff are available to provide helpful guidance for your visit.

Step inside one of Imai’s most elegant merchant homes.
The Kawai Residence showcases the architectural beauty and clever design used by wealthy families during the Edo period.
From the intricate wooden joinery to the tatami rooms and merchant shopfront, every detail reveals how daily life and business intertwined.

The Nakahashi Residence is a living example of a classic machiya (traditional townhouse) built with both function and refinement.
Its spacious layout, hidden storage areas, and historical furnishings offer an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle of a successful merchant family.
Don’t miss the inner garden, a peaceful retreat within the house.

At the heart of Imai Town lies Shonen-ji Temple, a sacred site that protected the community in more ways than one.
This 16th-century temple is not only a spiritual center, but also a symbol of the town’s independence and unity.
Explore its serene grounds and admire the fusion of religious tradition and local resilience.

The Imanishi Residence is one of the oldest and most prestigious homes in Imai Town.
Once the home of influential town leaders, it features high-quality woodwork, formal reception rooms, and historical documents that bring the governance of the town to life.
It’s a must-see for those interested in the leadership and legacy of the merchant class.

Simple yet charming, the Former Yonetani Residence offers a more humble perspective on merchant life.
Its preserved structure and modest interiors reflect the broader social fabric of Imai Town—where merchants of all levels lived and worked together.
It’s a quiet, authentic window into everyday life during Japan’s early modern period.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point: In front of the ticket gate at Yagi-Nishiguchi Station.
Your guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow sign.
Please refer to the map for more details.

About Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.

Historical/Religious 1.5 to 2 hours ¥600

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.

Nature/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (¥200 for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.

Religious/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.

Museum/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours ¥700

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.

Nature/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour ¥310

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens

Miso-ni

A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, may contain soy

Kudzu-mochi

A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Yoshino Cycling around Nara Park Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house Strolling through Isuien Garden Visiting historic temples and shrines Participating in a traditional craft workshop Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas Enjoying winter illuminations at temples

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center

By train

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nara Park and Todai-ji Area Nakatanicho Sanjo Dori

Day trips

Asuka Village

15 km from Nara • Half day to full day

Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.

Mount Yoshino

25 km from Nara • Full day

Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.

Osaka

40 km from Nara • Full day

Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.

Festivals

Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend) Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves