During the Edo period (1603-1867) in Japan, Nakamachi Street was a bustling center of commerce located in the heart of Matsumoto City. The name “Nakamachi” is derived from the Japanese words “naka” meaning center or middle, and “machi” meaning town. This historical street was situated along the Zenkoji Kaido, an important route connecting Zenkoji Temple to Nagoya and Kyoto, which made it a hub for wholesale dealers of goods such as sake and kimono.

Nakamachi was particularly renowned for its storehouses, known as “kura” or “dozo”, which were used to store goods and protect them from fires. Many of these kura buildings, some of which are over 100 years old, still stand today and have been preserved as part of the city’s cultural heritage.

In modern times, Nakamachi has evolved into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The street is home to a diverse range of shops, including folk art shops, craft shops, and specialty restaurants and cafes. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Matsumoto City by exploring the many historical buildings and landmarks, such as the Kurassic-kan, which was once a sake brewery building, and the Scale Museum, which is housed in a former scale shop.

One of the most popular activities in Nakamachi is shopping for traditional Japanese souvenirs, such as ceramics, lacquerware, and woodcrafts. Visitors can browse through a variety of unique and high-quality products that reflect the rich artistic traditions of Japan. Many of the shops also offer hands-on experiences, such as making your own chopsticks or painting your own pottery.

In addition to shopping, Nakamachi is also known for its vibrant dining scene. There are many restaurants that specialize in local cuisine, such as soba noodles and oyaki (a type of dumpling made with fermented dough and stuffed with various fillings). Visitors can also sample local sake and craft beers, which are produced using traditional brewing methods.