Yame Fukushima Historic Townscape

This old townscape spreads across the Fukushima district of Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture, and once flourished as the castle town of the Kurume Domain. Many of its buildings are earthen-walled storehouses, and around 150 traditional structures dating from the Edo period to the early Showa era line the old highway. The area was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in May 2002.

The street is also lined with shops making use of traditional architecture, where you can enjoy local food and shopping. Other highlights are scattered throughout the area, including Fukushima Hachimangu Shrine, where the nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property “Yame Fukushima Lantern Puppet Performance” is held every September, and Yokomachi Machiya Exchange Center, which introduces the charm and history of the townscape. If you visit in April, be sure to stop by “Tunnel Fuji,” a wisteria trellis about 510 m long made using rails from the former Japanese National Railways Yabe Line. Dobashi Market, a rare drinking district set within a shrine precinct, is also a must-visit.

Reflecting Fukushima’s history as a town that prospered through merchants and artisans, another distinctive feature is that you can spot Ebisu statues throughout the area. Stone monuments left by haiku poets and their disciples also remain, making it a great place to enjoy a literary monument walk. Paid guided tours by the Tourist Guide Association are also available, so check them out if you're interested.