Guida
The Mino Town Preservation District, located in Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, is a historic cityscape that has endured since the Edo period. Known as 'Udatsu-no-agaru Machinami,' it is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The most striking feature is the 'Udatsu'—fireproof walls built on either side of the roof. While originally serving a practical function to prevent fire spread, during the Edo period, merchants competed to install more ornate and luxurious Udatsu as a symbol of wealth and social status. Today, the streets are lined with various beautifully preserved structures showcasing diverse Udatsu designs.
The history of this region dates back to the early Edo period, following the Battle of Sekigahara, when the town's foundation was shaped by Kanamori Nagachika. The area later flourished as a major production center for Mino Washi (Japanese paper), attracting many wealthy merchants. This prosperity led to the development of the distinctive 'Udatsu' architectural style. In 1999, the area was designated as an Important Preservation District, and in 2004, it received the 'Beautiful Streetscape Award' from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Thanks to efforts to move utility lines underground, the historic scenery remains remarkably intact and unblemed by modern wires.
The area is dotted with buildings of high historical value. A representative example is the Kosaka Family Residence, an important cultural property from the early An ever era, characterized by its elegant 'Mukuri' (convex) roof. Another must-see is the Former Imai Family Residence (Mino Historical Museum), which features some of the oldest forms of Udatsu and a 'Suikinkutsu' (water zither)—a traditional Japanese soundscape element selected as one of the 100 Soundscapes of Japan. Visitors can also explore various galleries and houses with different architectural styles, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.
The streets are open 24 hours a day, allowing for strolls at any time. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons; spring and autumn are particularly lovely when the historical buildings harmonize with the surrounding nature. At night, the atmosphere is uniquely serene, as streetlights are placed directly on the buildings, creating a nostalgic glow. Daytime is ideal for observing the fine details of the architecture, such as the intricate shapes of the Udatsu and the traditional roof tiles.
Beyond sightseeing, you can immerse yourself in local traditions. You can visit shops to experience Mino Washi paper culture or visit the 'Mino Washi Akari Art Museum' to see art displays using traditional paper lighting. Many historic buildings also serve as modern galleries or exhibition spaces where you can learn about local crafts. Taking photographs against the backdrop of these traditional designs is a wonderful way to capture your journey.
Mino City offers many other historical spots, including facilities dedicated to the history of Mino Washi production and shops selling local specialties. You can also access the Gifu area via the Nagara River Railway. Planning a route that connects these historical landmarks will make your trip through Gifu's cultural heritage truly enriching.