Gangi-dori (Kasuga Yokocho Shopping Street)

Overview

Gangi-dori is a collection of historic buildings in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, showcasing the ingenuity developed in a heavy snow region. In this area, which flourished during the Edo period, the "gan-gi" structure was devised to protect people from heavy winter snowfall. This involved extending parts of houses over the streets to create covered walkways. Gangi-dori still showcases this beautiful landscape of interconnected gan-gi. Traditional townhouses line Gangi-dori, offering a glimpse into the lives of people in the past. At the Machiya Koryukan Takada Komachi, you can learn about their lifestyles and culture. At the former Imai Dyeing House, you can observe traditional dyeing techniques. The Goze Museum Takada provides insight into the culture of goze, blind female musicians. Furthermore, Gangi-dori is home to Takada Sekaikan, one of Japan's oldest cinemas. Enjoy a nostalgic movie experience in this retro-style theater. Gangi-dori is a captivating tourist spot brimming with history, culture, and human ingenuity. Take your time to explore and experience the history and culture of Joetsu City.