Ouchi-juku (大内宿)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This is a post town on the Aizu-Nishi Kaido (Shimotsuke Kaido), the road that once linked Aizuwakamatsu and Nikko, and it is a nationally designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, with over 30 thatched-roof houses lined up neatly on both sides of the old highway. Along the street, free of utility poles, clear mountain spring water flows through a channel, and each house is still run as a folk craft shop, soba restaurant, or souvenir shop, alongside daily life. Climbing the stone steps to Koyasu Kannon-do at the end of the street rewards you with a full view of the post town, its thatched roofs lined up in a row, and this view is famous as the iconic photo spot symbolizing Ouchi-juku. Walking slowly together through a townscape that has continued since the Edo period, you'll feel as though time has come to a gentle stop.

Tips

About 15 minutes by car or taxi from Yunokami Onsen Station. Use the paid parking lot at the entrance to the townscape (around 500 yen for a regular car). The street has some unpaved sections and water channels, so wear shoes that are easy to walk in. The stone steps up to the lookout are somewhat steep, so use the handrail and take your time. Many shops close early in the evening, so it's best to choose your souvenirs earlier in the day.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 30 minutes. Around midday, once all the shops have opened, it's lively and fun. Take your time for full-view photos from the lookout

Access & map

〒969-5207 福島県南会津郡下郷町大内山本