TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nanukamachi Street is a historic shopping street and streetscape remaining in the center of Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. Remnants of the area's prosperity as a castle town from the Edo period through the Meiji and Taisho periods remain, with rows of storehouse-style buildings, Western-style merchant houses, and retro signboard buildings. In recent years, the number of renovated old buildings has increased, with cafes, souvenir shops, galleries, and local sake bars opening up, making it a popular tourist spot where you can casually enjoy Aizu's traditional crafts and food culture while strolling around.
Highlights
- Retro townscape: Lined with storehouses and old merchant houses, there are many photo spots. The atmosphere is particularly good at dusk.
- Local craft shops: There are many stores selling traditional crafts such as Aizu lacquerware and Aizu cotton, as well as stores where you can see live demonstrations and sales.
- Cafes and sweets: There are many cafes and pastry shops that combine Japanese and Western cuisine, where you can enjoy sweets made with Aizu ingredients.
- Local sake and local cuisine: Liquor stores that stock brands from local breweries, places where you can taste sake, and restaurants that serve Aizu's local cuisine such as sauce katsudon and kozuyu.
- Galleries and experience facilities: There are also exhibition galleries and experience classes for lacquering, dyeing, pottery, etc. (advance reservations recommended).
- Events: Seasonal markets and illuminations are held, and there are also stalls and special events during local festivals.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: A few minutes' walk from Aizu Railway's Nanukamachi Station (located right next to the station).
- By JR: From JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, it is a 15-20 minute walk, or a 5-10 minute ride on the city loop bus or local bus. It is also about a 5 minute taxi ride.
- By car: Parking is limited as it is located in the city center. It is convenient to use the nearby paid parking lots or municipal parking lots. Parking lots tend to fill up on weekends and during tourist season.
- Buses and sightseeing tours: Access is convenient via sightseeing tour buses and local buses. It's a good idea to check the latest schedules and routes at the tourist information center.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Light stroll/1 cafe: 1 hour to 1.5 hours
- Shopping, dining, and leisurely visiting multiple stores: 2-3 hours
- If you want to experience crafts and take your time to look at the exhibits: About half a day (it's best to make a reservation in advance for the experience).
Nearby spots
- Tsuruga Castle (Wakamatsu Castle): A castle representing Aizuwakamatsu. Accessible on foot or by bus from Nanokamachi.
- Aizu Samurai Residences: A facility where you can learn about Aizu's history and samurai culture, within a 10-20 minute drive or bus ride.
- Aizu Historical Museum: A spot that displays local historical materials.
- Local Market and Shopping Street: You can find Aizu ingredients and souvenirs at the shopping street and grocery stores connected to Nanokamachi Street.
- Hot spring areas (Ashinomaki, Higashiyama, etc.): Day-trip bathing facilities and accommodations are scattered nearby.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park gets extremely crowded on weekends, holidays, Golden Week, during the autumn foliage season, and during local festivals. Be sure to secure a parking spot early.
- Business hours: Some stores may close earlier than others (especially on weekday evenings and during the New Year holidays). Please check the opening hours of the store you wish to visit in advance.
- Prepare cash: Even in tourist areas, some small stores only accept cash. Credit cards and electronic money may not be accepted, so it is a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Snow and winter roads: In winter, be careful when walking and driving due to snow and ice. Wear non-slip shoes and winter clothing.
- Steps in buildings/barrier-free access: Many of the buildings are old and some stores have steps or stairs, so if you are using a stroller or wheelchair, please check in advance.
- Photography etiquette: When taking photos in front of a store or residence, please be considerate of the store owner or residents. Be considerate of others when eating, drinking, or lining up.
Nanokamachi Street is a great place to stroll, with a perfect blend of history and modernity. Take your time and enjoy the Aizu atmosphere while taking a break at a cafe or browsing the crafts.
