Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Takehara Town Preservation District (Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture) is a historic townscape that retains the atmosphere of a merchant town and port town from the Edo to Meiji periods. With its preserved white-walled storehouses, lattice-door townhouses, banks, and cobblestone alleys, the area is sometimes referred to as "Aki's Little Kyoto." The old buildings have been designated a national preservation district for groups of traditional buildings, and visitors can experience the lifestyles and industries of the time (salt production, shipping, and commercial activities) by strolling through the town, taking advantage of the historic landscape, and visiting cafes, craft shops, and museums housed in old houses. The area is also known as the setting for the anime "Tamako Market," making it a popular spot for fans.
Highlights
- Traditional townhouses and storehouses: A street lined with white plaster storehouses, lattice windows, and tiled roofs. The scenery is perfect for taking photos.
- Old-style house cafes and galleries: The preservation district is dotted with restaurants and workshops that have been renovated from old houses, where you can enjoy local ingredients and crafts.
- Museum and historical facility: This museum and exhibition facility conveys the town's history and lifestyle, and you can learn about the salt industry and the lives of merchants.
- Strolling through the alleys: There's a lot of fun to be had discovering the narrow cobblestone alleys, waterways, and charming gates on foot.
- Tamayura related spots: You can also enjoy a pilgrimage route around places known as the setting for the anime.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Takehara Station on the JR Kure Line (line name and number of trains may vary depending on the time)
- Directions from the station: It's about a 10-20 minute walk from Takehara Station to the preservation area. You can also take a local bus or taxi.
- Access by car: Take the Sanyo Expressway, Kawachi IC, or the national highway from Higashihiroshima or Mihara. Please note that the roads within the town are narrow in some places, so please check the location of parking spaces in advance.
- Nearby transportation: Okunoshima (Rabbit Island) can be reached by ferry from nearby ports (such as Tadanoumi), so many tourists visit the preserved area as well.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short (leisurely): 1-2 hours — walking along the main streets and taking photos.
- Intensive: Half-day (3-4 hours) — Includes visits to the museum, cafe, and gallery, as well as lunch and breaks.
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: 1 day - If you want to visit nearby spots such as Okunoshima, we recommend the 1-day course.
Nearby spots
- Okunoshima (Rabbit Island): A tourist attraction accessible by ferry from Tadanoumi Port. Many people visit this island in conjunction with the conservation area.
- Around Takehara Port: Enjoy the Seto Inland Sea scenery and the atmosphere of a port town.
- Nearby historical and cultural facilities: Municipal museums and local material exhibitions (opening times change depending on the season and special exhibitions, so please check).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Privacy and Manners: As this is a residential area, please be considerate of local residents by not trespassing on private property or residential premises and by remaining quiet.
- Photography etiquette: Photography is permitted, but it is good etiquette to ask permission before taking photos of residents or inside stores. Please check in advance before using a tripod or taking commercial photos.
- Crowds: It gets crowded on weekends, during peak tourist seasons, and during events. If you want to enjoy it quietly, we recommend going on weekdays or in the morning.
- Footwear and rain precautions: There are many stone pavements and steps, so wear comfortable shoes. Be careful when it rains as the trail can be slippery.
- Business hours: Old-style cafes and small stores often have short business hours or are closed on certain days, so please check in advance.
- Seasonal precautions: Take precautions against the heat in summer and the cold in winter. The number of tourists increases especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
References and Notes: Preservation areas are places that are worth exploring and enjoying the atmosphere. While cherishing the historical landscape, please also enjoy the local food and shops.
