Minocho Traditional Buildings Group Preservation District ("Udatsu no Agaru Machinami")

Overview

The Minocho Traditional Buildings Group Preservation District, located in Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, is renowned as "Udatsu no Agaru Machinami" (Town where Udatsu rise). Its townscape was originally designed in the early Edo period by Kanasen Nagachika, who was granted land after the Battle of Sekigahara. After the Kanasen family's decline, the area became part of Owari Domain and prospered as a Mino washi (paper) production center. The "udatsu" firewalls, symbols of wealth, are a defining characteristic of this townscape. The town's layout follows a grid pattern, with Ichibancho-dori and Nibancho-dori streets connected by four cross streets. On May 13, 1999 (Heisei 11), it was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. In 2003 (Heisei 15), the overhead power lines within the preservation district were buried underground. Streetlights are directly mounted on buildings, eliminating the need for utility poles. Traditional townhouses and merchant houses line the streets, offering a glimpse into the lives of people in that era. Historical spots abound throughout the town, making it a delightful place for a stroll.