Arimatsu: Uncover Nagoya’s Hidden Edo-Era Gem with historic streets and scenic views.

Designated as Nagoya’s first preservation district in 1984, Arimatsu is renowned for its traditional tie-dyeing techniques and holds the status of a national important traditional building preservation district. Honestly, even for locals in Nagoya, it’s a bit of a trek to the southeast of Nagoya in Midori-ku, making it a rare chance to delve into its history.

 

 

 

Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are solely our own!

 

 

 

Truly a hidden gem of a historic thoroughfare!

 

Traditional Arimatsu old street scene showcasing historic buildings and charming atmosphere.
The quaint old streets of Arimatsu exude a nostalgic charm.

 

 

 

Local family enjoying a stroll through the historic streets of Arimatsu in Nagoya
Local family enjoying a stroll through the historic streets of Arimatsu.

 

 

Meitetsu Railway Arimatsu Station, a key transportation hub in Nagoya's historic district.
Meitetsu Railway stands as Nagoya’s iconic local train line.

 

 

 

A few minutes’ walk from Arimatsu Station (Meitetsu Railway) reveals a picturesque Edo-era townscape along the old Tokaido highway. Arimatsu thrived as a teahouse village on the Tokaido, connecting Edo (modern Tokyo) and Kyoto, and as a center for tie-dyeing.

 

 

 

Rows of traditional buildings in Arimatsu.

 

 

 

Ancient Tokai Highway in Arimatsu.

 

 

 

Along this approximately 800m stretch of road, you’ll find cafes, eateries, and souvenir shops, all embracing the traditional atmosphere. It’s a space tightly packed with history, culture, and tourism. Perhaps due to its location and transportation accessibility, it has become an uber-local spot—a historic thoroughfare off the beaten path.

 

 

 

Local residents in Arimatsu celebrating Coming-of-Age Day wearing traditional furisode
Local residents celebrating Coming-of-Age Day wearing traditional furisode.

 

 

 

On weekdays, tourists are scarce, yet locals casually use the road in their daily lives, providing glimpses into the unhurried local lifestyle in Arimatsu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the industrial city of Nagoya, encountering such an old townscape locally is quite rare. It’s a well-balanced scene, not overly commercialized; having such a beautifully preserved old town locally is a delightful surprise!

 

 

Arimatsu might just be the perfect place for a spontaneous visit.

 

 

Arimatsu Old Tokaido Road Streetscape (有松伝統的建造物群保存地区)

Arimatsu, Midori-ku, Nagoya

 

 

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