🗺️ Omi Merchant Old District (Shimmachi Street)

About 2 kilometers north of JR Ōmihachiman Station, there is an old street in the Shinmachi area that has well-preserved historical buildings, exuding a retro romantic atmosphere. This area is now designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Important Traditional Buildings in Japan. The old shops and merchant residences from the late Edo period to the Meiji and Taisho eras have been preserved intact to this day. Among them, the "Important Cultural Property Former Nishikawa Residence," a large shop and residence, is a landmark attraction on Shinmachi Street. On both sides of the street stand several former residences of Ōmi merchants. The quaint lattice doors and windows, along with visible pine trees, allow visitors to stroll and appreciate the unique delicacy and elegance of the old houses. Along the nostalgic street, the distinctive manhole covers featuring Ōmihachiman scenery also make for great photo spots. The Ōmihachiman City Museum is built on the former site of Nishimura Taroemon. Inside the museum, there are displays of agricultural machinery, production equipment, and ancient documents from the water town area. Additionally, the Yahata-bori Canal, which flows through Ōmihachiman City, is another must-see attraction. The historically rich landscape is quite charming and has served as a filming location for the movie "Rurouni Kenshin" and many Japanese period dramas. Visitors can take a pleasure boat called "Suigō Kankō" to enjoy a leisurely and delightful time on the canal.

Designated as an important traditional building preservation area of Japan. It still retains the architectural features of the Hachiman merchants, such as lattice windows and visible pine partitions. The uniquely designed manhole covers representing the scenic patterns of Ōmihachiman are perfect for photography. The Ōmihachiman City Museum displays precious historical materials.