Wakasa-cho Wakasa Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings (若桜町若桜 重要伝統的建造物群保存地区)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Wakasa-juku (若桜宿) flourished as a post town along the highway connecting Inaba and Tajima, and it still retains a beautiful streetscape lined with sake breweries, white-walled storehouses, and old houses with latticed windows. Designated a National Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, it has many buildings dating from the early Showa era, and its unique blend of nostalgia and history is a major draw. Being able to stroll at your own pace without tourist crowds is also something unique to Wakasa. Walking with your children while chatting about what old houses used to be like can turn into a small history lesson. The station plaza, which becomes tonight's fireworks venue, is just nearby, which also helps you learn your way around.

Tips

Spread across an area a few minutes' walk from Wakasa Station (若桜駅). It's easier to explore if you pick up a guide map at the roadside station or tourist information center first. Summer daytime sunlight is strong, so don't forget a hat and to stay hydrated. The eaves overhanging the shopfronts create shade, so take your time walking and admiring the buildings.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 30 minutes. Early afternoon, when there are fewer tourists, lets you enjoy the quiet streetscape.

Access & map

〒680-0701 鳥取県八頭郡若桜町若桜２８３