Traditional Merchant Street Lined with Pale Yellow Earthen Walls and White Plaster for About 600 Meters
About this spot
The highlight of Uchi-ko sightseeing—an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings spanning about 600 meters with traditional merchant houses and residences. The pale yellow earthen walls, white plaster, namako-kabe (fish-scale tiles), latticed windows, and decorative trowel art adorning the roofs reflect the refined tastes of merchants who prospered from wax production and are still preserved today. Walking up the gentle slope and stopping by scattered points of interest such as the Commerce and Life Museum, sake breweries, and long-established wax candle shops adds to the enjoyment. Though without flashiness, the street gains character the more you walk it—truly the main character of this retro white-walled stroll.
Tips
The street features a gentle uphill slope with some stone-paved and gravel sections, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Many residences are still inhabited, so observe etiquette and be quiet when viewing storefronts. Some small shops accept cash only.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The morning has fewer tourists, and it's a beautiful time when shadows fall on the white walls.
Access & map
〒791-3301 Ehime Prefecture, Kita-gun, Uchi-ko Town, Uchi-ko 2648
Model course featuring this spot
Uchi-ko: Uchiko-za Theater and the White-Walled Retro Town of Wax Production
Ehime
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.