A Journey Through the Historic Streets of Tochigi
Tochigi City has long thrived as a commercial hub in the Kanto region. During the Edo period, it developed as a post town on the Nikko Kaido, and thanks to the river transport on the Uzuma River flowing through the city, it became known as the “Commercial Capital of Northern Kanto.” Even today, there are preserved districts that retain this rich historical background, attracting many tourists. In these districts, you can savor the traditional atmosphere with storehouses and traditional buildings built by wealthy merchants.
In this area where history and culture intersect, you can enjoy a unique atmosphere where the past and present harmonize. There are many spots with different charms, such as Rangaku Street and Kaemon Town, offering plenty to see. Additionally, recent developments like the undergrounding of power lines have made the streets even more walkable, providing comfort to visitors. In Tochigi City, why not embark on a journey to experience the “traditional lifestyle” in this area where old buildings are being revitalized in new ways?
The Historical Background and Streets of Tochigi City
Tochigi City in Tochigi Prefecture developed as a post town on the Nikko Kaido during the Edo period. This road was an important route connecting Edo and Nikko, frequented by many merchants and travelers. Furthermore, the Uzuma River flowing through the city functioned as a key point for water transport, serving as a hub for goods transportation. As a result, Tochigi City flourished as the “Commercial Capital of Northern Kanto,” with many wealthy merchants establishing storehouses.
The Charm of Kaemon Town
Kaemon Town is an important traditional building preservation district in Tochigi City, with history dating back to the Tensho period (1573-1592). This area is lined with many old houses and storehouses, maintaining its charm to this day. Particularly noteworthy are the commercial houses and former bank buildings constructed from the Meiji to early Showa periods, which still convey the economic activities of those times.
Rangaku Street and Its Origin
Rangaku Street is an approximately 800-meter-long street named due to the many doctors in the area. In 2002, improvements such as the undergrounding of power lines were made, preserving its beautiful scenery. Along this street, various shops and cafes are scattered, entertaining visitors.
The Uzuma River and the Warehouse Town Sightseeing Boat
A promenade is developed along the Uzuma River, and the sightseeing boat utilizing this river is popular among tourists. The gentle water surface, where elegant carp swim, offers a picturesque view that provides relaxation to visitors. In this area known as the “Warehouse Town,” many storehouses and shop warehouses remain, each with different roles and histories to explore.
The Retro Atmosphere of “Warehouse Architecture”
In Tochigi City, you can enjoy an atmosphere reminiscent of “Little Edo” or “Showa Retro.” The architectural styles and decorations inherited from different eras are popular among tourists from both Japan and abroad. There are many places associated with wealthy merchants, such as the famous Yokoyama family building from the Meiji period, where valuable exhibits deepen your knowledge of daily life in those days.
Access and Useful Information
For access to Tochigi City, using the railway is recommended. If traveling directly from Tokyo, you can transfer at Oyama Station on the JR Utsunomiya Line and then take the Ryomo Line or use Tobu Railway. When visiting by car, be sure to check the surrounding parking information before departure.
Remembering the traditional daily scenes… you can experience them right now! Walking through the beautiful streets steeped in history will enrich your heart. And most importantly, create special moments just for yourself! Why not start a journey to Tochigi City, connecting the past and future?
What is the Townscape Preservation District of Tochigi City?
In Tochigi City, Tochigi Prefecture, there are townscape preservation districts with many historical buildings. Particularly, the Kaemon Town district is the first important traditional building preservation district selected in Tochigi Prefecture, with many buildings designated as national tangible cultural properties. In this area, merchants and craftsmen gathered from the Edo to Meiji periods, forming a unique townscape.
What Kind of History Does It Have?
Tochigi City is known for its traditional atmosphere, often referred to as “Little Edo.” Especially along the Nikko Kaido, it thrived with visitors to Nikko Toshogu Shrine, developing as a post town. Additionally, the Uzuma River in this area prospered through river transport, allowing visitors to feel its remnants while strolling.
How Is the Access?
It takes about an hour by train from Tokyo, making it ideal for a day trip. From JR Tokyo Station, take the Tohoku Shinkansen “Yamabiko” to Oyama Station for about 40 minutes, then use the JR Ryomo Line for about 10 minutes to reach JR Tochigi Station. There is also a tourist information center “Kuranavi” in front of the station where you can obtain tourist information.
What Are the Highlights?
In addition to old townscapes like Kaemon Town and Hirayanagi Shinchi, there are various attractions such as the “Zenno Family Storehouse” and “Tochigi Yatai Kaikan.” “Shinmeigu Shrine” is said to be the birthplace of the prefecture’s name, and the “Five Storehouses” is a popular spot featured on TV programs. The “Shimotsuga Sake Brewing Cooperative Office,” famous for its stone architecture, is also a must-see.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
You can enjoy the seasonal scenery, but spring and autumn are especially recommended. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a stroll through the town with beautiful scenery. In autumn, the autumn leaves are also beautiful, allowing you to enjoy historical exploration with the unique scenery of this season.
Is It Enjoyable for Families with Children?
Yes, it is enjoyable for families with children. There are museums and experience facilities in the area, offering plenty of educational elements. Additionally, at the “Tochigi Yatai Kaikan,” you can learn about festival culture in a fun way, which is popular with young children.
Is It Worth Visiting Once?
It is definitely worth visiting once!
By experiencing the contrast between the historic streets and modern tourist facilities, you will be able to spend meaningful time.
Reflecting on the Charm of Tochigi City
Tochigi City is an attractive tourist destination where history and culture intersect. As a commercial hub since the Edo period, it developed as the “Commercial Capital of Northern Kanto.” The remnants of its prosperity still vividly remain in the townscape, offering visitors a scenic view full of charm.
In preservation districts like Kaemon Town and Rangaku Street, traditional building groups stand side by side, each with different histories and charms. Especially Kaemon Town is an important area with history dating back to the Tensho period, with many old houses and storehouses still existing, offering glimpses of the economic activities of those times. Additionally, Rangaku Street is named due to the many doctors in the area, allowing you to stroll through beautifully maintained streets.
Along the Uzuma River, you can enjoy a sightseeing boat, experiencing the unique atmosphere of the “Warehouse Town” in this area. The gentle water surface where carp swim provides a graceful landscape that offers relaxation to tourists. In this area, there are also commercial houses and former bank buildings constructed from the Meiji to early Showa periods, which are also must-see attractions.
For access, using the railway is recommended, and you can visit from the Tokyo area via the JR Utsunomiya Line or Tobu Railway. Additionally, when visiting by car, checking the surrounding parking information is convenient. A trip to Tochigi City becomes a place where new discoveries and memory-making are possible in a unique space where the past and present are fused.