YamaguchiFood

Red Goldfish Lanterns Sway Above Historic Fireproof Storehouses—Eat and Walk the Merchant Street

About this spot

A street where white-walled fireproof merchant storehouses line the way for about 200 meters, serving as Yanai's signature landmark. Once thriving as a commercial hub of the Seto Inland Sea and called the 'Storehouse of the Iwakuni Clan,' the area retains its former grandeur in the form of sturdy, gabled merchant houses and traditional latticed doors. Today it is designated as a Nationally Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Red goldfish lanterns—Yanai's traditional craft—are hung in rows from the eaves, creating a landscape of white walls and bright red fish found nowhere else. Along the street, you'll find restored merchant houses open as museums, traditional confectionery shops, and miscellaneous stores—perfect for an enjoyable food-walking adventure as you hunt for snacks.

Tips

Tourist parking is available near the town district; walking is the main way to explore. The old roads have stone paving and drainage channels, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Early morning brings fewer crowds and better light for photographing the white walls and lanterns; plan to revisit shops on your return.