Shosoin Repository | Nara

Nara-machi (奈良町) is the historic district of Nara, Japan, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. Located in the heart of Nara, near Kintetsu Nara Station, this district is renowned for its traditional merchant houses, preserved architecture, and narrow, winding streets. A stroll through Nara-machi allows visitors to experience the charm of old Japan, with its Edo-period buildings, quaint shops, and local atmosphere.

1. Historical Background of Nara-machi

The history of Nara-machi dates back to the Nara period (710-794 AD), but it flourished during the Edo period (1603–1868), when Nara was a regional center for commerce, culture, and administration. While Nara was no longer the capital by the Edo period, it remained a key hub for trade and craftsmanship, attracting merchants and artisans from across Japan.

Merchant District: The area developed as a merchant district, where wealthy families and traders established their homes and shops. The traditional machiya-style buildings (townhouses), with their unique sliding doors and wooden latticework, still line the streets today.

Preservation of Architecture: Over time, Nara-machi became a vibrant area for local commerce, with many buildings and homes being passed down through generations. Today, this area retains much of its historical charm, with many traditional machiya (townhouses) still standing and functioning as shops, cafes, and museums.

2. Architectural Features of Nara-machi

Nara-machi is known for its well-preserved machiya houses, which showcase the architectural style of the Edo period. These traditional merchant houses typically have long, narrow layouts, with a small shopfront on the ground floor and living quarters in the back.

A. Machiya Townhouses

• Design: Machiya houses typically feature wooden lattice facades, sliding paper doors (shoji), and tile roofs. The design is practical for the hot and humid summers and cold winters of Japan, using natural materials like wood and paper to provide insulation and light.
• Inside the Houses: Inside, the houses are divided into sections: a front area for the shop or workspace, followed by living areas for the family, often arranged around an internal courtyard. Many of these courtyards feature traditional gardens that offer a peaceful retreat.

B. Traditional Streets

The narrow, winding streets of Nara-machi evoke a sense of stepping back in time. As you walk through, you’ll find:

• Wooden signboards and lanterns hanging from buildings.
• Irregular cobblestone streets and tight alleyways that were originally designed to maximize space in a dense urban area.

3. Attractions in Nara-machi

Nara-machi is not only a place to appreciate traditional architecture but also a great spot to enjoy local culture, food, and shopping. Here are some highlights of what to explore in the district:

A. Traditional Shops and Cafes

The district is filled with local shops selling handmade crafts, antiques, and Nara-specific goods like washi paper and Nara souvenirs. Many of these shops are housed in the traditional machiya buildings.

• Kusuriya: A traditional drugstore with a long history, selling local remedies and herbs.
• Nara-machi Komichi: A narrow street lined with quaint shops, perfect for strolling and shopping for local items.

In addition, there are several cafes and tea houses where visitors can enjoy matcha tea, Japanese sweets, and other local treats, making Nara-machi an ideal place to relax and experience Japanese hospitality.

B. Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum

This small but charming museum is located in a former machiya townhouse and showcases a collection of traditional Japanese mechanical toys (karakuri), including spinning tops, dolls, and other toys once popular in the Edo period. The museum also offers visitors a chance to interact with some of the toys.

C. Tsuchinoko Museum

The Tsuchinoko is a mythical creature from Japanese folklore, said to resemble a snake with a wider middle. This small museum in Nara-machi is dedicated to all things related to the tsuchinoko and features exhibits, stories, and local legends about the creature.

D. Former Nara City Office (Gokoku Shrine)

The former Nara City Office is an elegant building that dates back to the Meiji period and features a mix of Western and Japanese architectural styles. Located near Nara-machi, this building is an interesting sight for those interested in the evolving architecture of Japan.

E. Nara-machi's Hidden Temples

Some small, lesser-known temples are tucked away in the alleys of Nara-machi, offering peaceful moments of reflection. These temples are not as crowded as the larger, more famous temples in Nara, making them ideal for those seeking a quiet respite.

• Tōgū-ji Temple: A small temple with a tranquil atmosphere located within Nara-machi, with a historical connection to the city’s cultural heritage.

4. Cultural Significance

Nara-machi offers an authentic glimpse into the life of a merchant district from centuries ago. This area was once the beating heart of Nara’s economic and social life, and its historical buildings reflect the lifestyle of the Edo period. Visitors can experience old-fashioned Japan while exploring its rich cultural history, preserved architecture, and local traditions.

A. Craftsmanship

Nara-machi is home to several artisans still practicing traditional Japanese crafts such as:

• Nara lacquerware: Beautiful, intricate, hand-painted designs used for various functional and decorative items.
• Kintsugi: The art of repairing broken pottery with golden lacquer, a practice closely associated with Japan’s philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection.

B. Gion Festival in Nara-machi

A highlight of the local cultural calendar, the Gion Festival in Nara-machi is a celebration of the Shinto deity of Gion Shrine and features parades, traditional dances, and performances. The event typically takes place in July and draws locals and visitors alike.

5. Walking Through Nara-machi

To truly experience Nara-machi, walking through its narrow streets is the best way to immerse yourself in its charm. Some of the best spots for a leisurely walk include:

• Kōbō Street (弘法町通り), which is lined with traditional shops and cafes.
• Machiya Street, where many historic buildings can be seen up close.
• Nara-machi's West End, which offers a quieter, more residential side of the district, with lovely gardens and local homes.

6. Access and Visitor Information

Nara-machi is conveniently located near Kintetsu Nara Station and is within walking distance from Nara Park and many other key attractions in Nara. The district is easily accessible for visitors, whether by foot, bus, or taxi.

• Best Time to Visit: Nara-machi is beautiful year-round, but the spring (when cherry blossoms bloom) and autumn (when the leaves change colors) offer particularly stunning views. The atmosphere of the district can also be quite magical during festivals or cultural events.

7. Conclusion

Nara-machi is a delightful area that encapsulates the essence of old Nara. Whether you’re exploring the narrow streets filled with historical houses, enjoying the local crafts and traditional snacks, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, the district offers a rich cultural experience that is perfect for visitors who want to connect with Japan’s past. It’s a must-visit for those who want to experience traditional Japan in the heart of Nara.