About Masuda Historic District

Located in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, the Masuda Historic District is a picturesque tourist destination where many merchant house buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods remain. Known as the “town of gutters (uchigura),” Masuda features hidden warehouses on the grounds of merchant houses, and has preserved the prosperity and lifestyle culture of that time. The district has been designated as a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and is dotted with valuable buildings that evoke a sense of history and culture.

The most distinctive feature of the Masuda Historic District is its unique “built-in” architecture. Usually, storehouses are built outside, but in Masuda's merchant houses, they are hidden in the back of the property. This was done to protect the warehouses from the harsh cold of winter and also to protect the property by keeping them out of sight from the outside. These gutters amaze visitors with their lavish interiors, including elaborate wood carvings and plaster decorations on the inside and beautiful paintings on the walls. In addition, the design of the gutters is filled with the wisdom and skill of our ancestors, and visitors can directly feel their ingenuity and aesthetic sense.

Furthermore, walking through the Masuda Historic District, visitors will feel as if they have stepped back in time, as the old streets have been preserved intact. The merchant buildings are all magnificent, and the scenery is tasteful, with lattice doors, wooden roofs, and traditional tiled roofs. In particular, the beautiful carvings and lattice designs seen on the store fronts along the street are a testament to the high level of construction technology of the time. Walking along the street and experiencing the history of the area is one of the main attractions for tourists visiting the district.

The Masuda Historic District also offers sightseeing tours by local guides, who provide detailed explanations of the historical background and features of the buildings. This allows visitors to enjoy themselves more while deepening their understanding of Masuda's culture and history. There are also several warehouses and merchant houses whose interiors are open to the public, some of which are used as archives and galleries. These facilities offer exhibits on Masuda's history and culture and provide valuable learning opportunities for visitors.

The Masuda Historic District is a special place where traditional architectural beauty and rich history are in harmony, making it a tourist destination where new discoveries and impressions are made with each visit. With its seasonal charm, this area is a must-visit destination for those interested in history and culture. An unparalleled experience awaits you as you walk through the streets of Masuda, where you can recall the scenes of old Japan.