Station Narai Kiso no Oohashi

Cross a Living Legacy of Craftsmanship and Nature

Narai Kiso no Oohashi is a roadside station where history, nature, and artistry converge along the serene banks of the Narai River in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture. At its heart lies the breathtaking Kiso Ohashi—a majestic, all-hinoki cypress drum bridge, one of the largest pier-less arch bridges in Japan, crafted from timber over 300 years old. Crossing this graceful structure is not just a journey across water, but a passage through time, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding greenery.

The station unfolds into a spacious riverside park with grassy lawns, perfect for relaxation and outdoor exploration. With its thoughtful design and serene atmosphere, Narai Kiso no Oohashi invites travelers to pause, reflect, and connect with the spirit of the Kiso Road. Whether strolling at sunset when the bridge glows under soft lights or exploring nearby historic Nara-i Post Town, visitors experience the quiet beauty of Japan’s cultural heartland.

Narai Kiso no Oohashi stands out for its breathtaking, 300-year-old hinoki cypress arched bridge—the largest of its kind in Japan without supporting piers. Crossing this handcrafted masterpiece leads directly to a serene water-side park where the clear Narai River flows beneath the bridge, creating a stunning reflection at sunset. This unique bridge, a marvel of traditional timber craftsmanship, cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot near the water-side park entrance, as the first 10 spaces fill quickly and the main parking lot along National Route 19 often reaches capacity by 10:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the information space between 9:00–10:30 AM to speak with the station manager, who personally shares stories about the history of the Kiso hinoki bridge and its construction using timber over 300 years old.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the water-side park area by 11:00 AM to catch the daily live demonstration of traditional woodcraft techniques at the bridge’s underside, held by local artisans from the Kiso region.

• Must-Try Food: Purchase the seasonal hinoki wood-smoked fish at the roadside station’s information space during the fall months (October–November), as it is only available during the harvest season and sells out by 2:00 PM.

• Best Photo Spot: Walk across the entire Kiso hinoki bridge between 5:30–6:00 PM on weekdays to capture the full length of the bridge with the setting sun illuminating the river below, as the lighting is optimal and crowds are minimal.

• EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located at the water-side park entrance, which operates only between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and avoid peak times (11:00 AM–1:00 PM) when the single charging post is often in use.

• Afternoon Activity: Join the free guided walking tour of the Kiso hinoki bridge and surrounding water-side park offered every weekday at 2:00 PM at the information space—registration is required and limited to 15 people.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom along the riverbank in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at local markets.

Summer (June–August): The illuminated bridge at dusk offers a magical view, and the riverside park is ideal for cool summer strolls.

Autumn (September–November): The bridge and surrounding trees display vibrant fall colors from mid-October.

Winter (December–February): The serene landscape is especially peaceful, with the bridge glowing softly under winter lights.