Having prospered throughout the 17th to 19th centuries as a merchant city, this old townscape features 1.2 km of machiya (traditional townhouses). The district has earned recognition as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. At “Joto Mukashi Machiya,” showing the former residence of a large merchant, visitors can feel the stylistic beauty of another lifetime. The tatami room is open to visitors for a sampling of Japanese culture and the chance to leave a commemorative photo. The town’s cafes also offer a chance to rest while walking through the town.