Hita City Mamedamachi Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings

Overview

Hita City Mamedamachi, a castle town or jinya-machi (town with a magistrate's office) established in the early Edo period, prospered as a major commercial and financial center in Kyushu, benefiting from the convenience of the Chikugo River waterway, along with Kumamachi in the south of the city. Many Edo-era merchant houses and storehouses remain, preserving the old townscape. On Goko-dori Street, utility poles have been removed and buried underground, further enhancing the traditional streetscape. This led to the district receiving the Beautiful Town Award from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in 2001 (Heisei 13). In 2004 (Heisei 16), it was selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, leading to ongoing preservation efforts. Within the preservation district are numerous historical buildings, including the Kusano family residence and the main hall of Chohuku-ji Temple, both designated as Important Cultural Properties. In addition to strolling through the traditional streets, you can savor local specialties and appreciate traditional crafts. Hita City Mamedamachi Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings is a precious tourist spot where you can experience history and culture. Be sure to visit!