Station Kiso Narakawa

Discover the Heart of Japan’s Craftsmanship in the Mountain Valley

Nestled in the serene valley of Nagano Prefecture’s Kiso region, Kiso Narakawa is a roadside station where tradition meets modernity. Located along National Route 19, it stands as a celebration of the area’s deep-rooted heritage in woodworking and lacquer artistry. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this destination is more than a stopover—it’s a cultural sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless craft of Kiso lacquerware.

At the core of Kiso Narakawa is the Kiso Life Craft Museum, a thoughtfully designed space showcasing everything from artisanal lacquerware and handcrafted wooden goods to local wines, sake, and seasonal farm produce. The museum features galleries, an experimental workshop, a theater, and a dedicated space for hands-on experiences. Visitors can reserve guided lacquer-making sessions, gaining insight into the meticulous techniques passed down through generations. With its focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and regional pride, Kiso Narakawa offers a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s living traditions.

Visit Kiso Narakawa to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can participate in hands-on wood lacquer crafting using the traditional mokuzo tsuge technique, a method exclusive to this area. Here, you’ll find the only authentic, food-safe lacquerware made from locally harvested Hinoki cedar, including children’s bowls and utensils designed for daily use. The station also features the only public display of the complete lacquer-making process, from tree to finished piece, offering a rare glimpse into centuries-old craftsmanship.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the morning tea event hosted by G’z (Gees) café, which features seasonal local pastries and is often fully booked by 10:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the "Forest Maru Puchi" snack pack at the "Narakawa Market" counter—this limited-edition dried fruit and nut blend made from local harvests is only available at the roadside station and sells out quickly.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the "Art Gallery" section between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to attend the free 45-minute storytelling session about the history of Kiso urushi (lacquerware), hosted by the station’s cultural ambassador.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Kiso Hinoki Slipped Lacquer Chopsticks" directly from the "Kiso Lifestyle Craft Museum" counter—they are priced 20% lower here than in the online shop and include a free wooden carrying case.

• Unique Experience: Reserve the "Wooden Base Lacquerware Experience" at least 7 days in advance through the official website, as only 6 sessions are offered per week and they fill up fast; the session includes a hands-on demonstration of the traditional Kiso Tsumi-shu lacquer technique.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Tip: After visiting the main museum, walk down the small path behind the "Kiso Lifestyle Craft Museum" to find the "Hidden Garden of Lacquer Trees"—a quiet, seasonal garden with native Kiso hinoki and urushi trees, accessible only during daylight hours.

• Culinary Highlight: Order the "Kiso Wine & Local Cheese Platter" at the G’z café between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, when the chef prepares a special pairing menu featuring the latest release from the Saltiro Wine Cellar, available only during this time slot.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; peak season for canola flower viewing in late March to April.

Summer (June–August): Summer harvest of local vegetables and fruit at the market; ideal for experiencing traditional woodcraft in warm weather.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn漆器祭 (Autumn Lacquer Festival) held annually; fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal wines available.

Winter (December–February): Limited market offerings; best for quiet visits and reserved lacquer crafting experiences.