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The "Kōshū Dream Street," which was born as a new landmark in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a commercial facility that recreates the Kōfu castle town from the Meiji to early Showa periods, filled with the charm of a small Edo. The relocated traditional houses, buildings constructed in the style of bygone architecture, stone pavements, and waterways create a unique nostalgic streetscape that is highly attractive.
The "Clock of Time," refurbished in 2013, is a restoration of the bell tower used for two hundred years from the Edo period to the early Meiji period, serving as a landmark in front of Kōfu Station. Standing about 15 meters tall, its impressive scale is quite striking when you look up at it. Pressing the button really produces the sound of the bell, allowing people to reminisce about the past along with the chimes.
In addition to art museums and exhibition galleries, Kōshū Dream Street features a variety of interconnected shops. The "Kōshū Wine Cellar," known for its top-tier Kōshū wine, and "Grape House Kofu," which offers grape juice and raisin-filled cookies, are just a few places where you can find many famous Yamanashi products and grape-related items. There are also wine shops where you can sample (for a fee), so be sure to stop by and try some.
Don't miss the washi (Japanese paper) and paper craft shops either. It is said that washi, which has a history of over a thousand years, is a local industry in Yamanashi and is a popular choice for souvenirs.
Moreover, Kōshū Dream Street has many restaurants and cafes, making it very convenient to take a break and have a meal when you get tired from shopping. Since it is close to Kōfu Station, there are many attractions nearby, making it easy to visit before or after your itinerary.
