Yuasa-cho Yuasa Traditional Buildings Preservation District

Overview

The Yuasa-cho Yuasa Traditional Buildings Preservation District, located in Yuasa-cho, Arida District, Wakayama Prefecture, is renowned as the birthplace of soy sauce brewing. This area flourished as the political and economic center of the Arida region from the early modern period onward, tracing its origins back to the medieval era as the birthplace of soy sauce brewing. In addition to soy sauce and 金山寺味噌 (kinzanji miso) production, fishing thrived here, and it also served as a post station along the Kumano pilgrimage route, leading to the development of diverse industries. Along Kitamachi-dori (running east-west along the south bank of the Yamada River near its mouth), Hamamachi-dori, Nakamachi-dori, and Kajimachi-dori (running north-south), many traditional buildings remain. Designated as a nationally important preservation district for groups of traditional buildings under the category of "Brewing Town", this area retains its historical character. This preservation district, approximately 400 meters east-west and 280 meters north-south, contains numerous active old buildings, including townhouses and storehouses related to soy sauce and miso brewing. Because soy sauce and miso brewing continues using traditional handmade methods, there are no modern factories in Yuasa. Furthermore, the town hasn't been overly commercialized for tourism, allowing it to retain its old-world charm. The Yuasa-cho Yuasa Traditional Buildings Preservation District is a captivating tourist spot where you can experience the history and culture of the birthplace of soy sauce brewing and enjoy a stroll through its quiet and picturesque streets. Activities include visiting soy sauce and miso breweries, enjoying meals in traditional townhouses, and more. Nearby, you'll also find many historical buildings and facilities such as Yuasa Shrine and the Yuasa Soy Sauce Museum. Come visit Yuasa-cho and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture!