Mackerels and other seafood from Wakasa Bay came to this post town on its way to Kyoto. The road was called Saba Kaido (Mackerel Highway) or Wakasa Kaido, which connected Obama and Wakasa Town by the Wakasa Bay, Kumagawa Juku, over Shiga, through Ohara and Yase to Kyoto. Kumagawa Juku was created as a logistics hub in 1589 by Wakasa Domain’s lord, Asano Nagamasa, who Toyotomi Hideyoshi valued. It prospered as a post town bordering the Omi Border with more than 200 houses at its peak between early and mid Edo Period.
The 10.8 hectare-area, designated as an important preservation district for groups of historic buildings, is dotted with a magistrate’s office, guard stations, former warehouses, etc. Along the ancient highway, a canal, which was created when inns were built long ago, still runs by the traditional homes. The village office is now converted into a museum, Shukuba-kan, sharing the history of Kumagawa Juku and Saba Kaido (Mackerel Highway).
Saba Kaido, including Kumagawa Juku, along with Heshiko (pickled fish)-making skill and traditional events, is designated as a Japan Heritage Miketsukuni Wakasa and Saba Highway - A Cultural Heritage Linking the Sea to the Ancient Capital.”
Highlights
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Interesting spots to see are within 1.1km along the Kaido (highway).
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Fun to stroll along the highway with traditional homes converted into restaurants and shops.
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Parking space available around the highway.
