【Japan Taisho Village】 A Retro Theme Park Recreating the Streets of a Bygone Era

Recommended Strolling Course for a Leisurely Walk

If you want to enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the streets as if you’ve slipped back into the Taisho era, a leisurely stroll through the town is highly recommended! Two must-visit spots along this walking course are the “Taisho Roman Museum” and the “Taisho Village Museum”!

First, the “Taisho Roman Museum” opened in May 1994. This Western-style building, designed in Taisho Modern style, serves as a memorial hall for the first mayor of Japan Taisho Village, Ms. Mieko Takamine, and the village council chairman, Mr. Kiyotaka Kasugano. Inside the elegant Western building are 10 exhibition rooms displaying European furniture, music boxes, and other fine arts from the Taisho period. Additionally, you can find oil paintings by Hoshisui Yamamoto, a native of this region known as the father of Western-style painting in Japan. Special exhibits based on themes from the era are also held.

Next, the “Taisho Village Museum” consists of two buildings, the “Bank Storehouse” and the “Taisho House,” both built in the late Meiji era. The four-story wooden building with an expansive hundred-mat hall was equipped with a rare pulley-type elevator from the time. Inside, visitors can view displays of textbooks, magazines, clothing, and household items from the Taisho era, giving a closer look at the everyday life and culture of the time.

In addition, there are many charming spots that retain the atmosphere of the Taisho period, such as alleys, the village office, and retro-modern shops and restaurants. By following this recommended walking course, you can efficiently explore the village’s main attractions and shops while fully experiencing its unique charm.

Rent a Yagasuri Kimono and Stroll Like a “Haikara-san”!

At ‘Japan Taisho Village,’ the popular “Haikara-san Costume Experience” allows visitors to wear traditional Yagasuri hakama while strolling the village! There are options for women, men, and children, and you can rent a Yagasuri kimono, hakama, boots, and accessories. After dressing up, why not take memorable photos at photo spots while enjoying the historical and atmospheric streets? Take a commemorative photo with the signboard displaying a date from the Taisho period in front of the Taisho Village Office, or pose on the romantically decorated staircase with red carpets and antique furniture at the “Taisho Roman Museum.” You can also stroll along the cobblestone path at the “Taisho Alley,” which transports you back in time, or visit the retro-modern “Taisho Village Romance Pavilion.” ‘Japan Taisho Village’ offers many photo opportunities! Take this chance to wear a Yagasuri kimono and hakama, and experience the feeling of time-traveling back to the Taisho era while exploring the village. Enjoy a leisurely day unlike any other while relaxing in a stylish café.

Enjoy Delicious Local Dishes Made with Regional Ingredients!

At ‘Japan Taisho Village,’ you can indulge in many delicious dishes made with local ingredients. In addition to regional specialties such as gohei-mochi and Ena Hayashi rice, there are restaurants and cafés that evoke the atmosphere of the time.

One especially recommended restaurant is “Taisho Village Romance Pavilion,” symbolized by its clock tower and vibrant green roof. The two-story interior features a modern atmosphere with a wood-burning stove, street lamps, and jazz playing from a phonograph, offering a relaxing time. On the first floor, the café and shop sell nostalgic items, old-fashioned candy, and local souvenirs. The most popular item is the creamy pudding, “Nameraka Purin.” You can also relax in the café space at the back. Upstairs, at the restaurant “Kawagami Dining,” you can enjoy local favorites like the highly popular “Hai Kara-age Don.”

Each restaurant offers unique dishes, so trying different options is highly recommended!

Enjoy Seasonal Flowers at “Taisho Village Akechi Forest”

Located near the city center of Akechi Town in Ena City, “Taisho Village Akechi Forest” offers a perfect spot for forest bathing and hiking, as well as activities such as playing on wooden playground equipment and mallet golf. There’s even a campsite, and from the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of ‘Japan Taisho Village.’

The highlight of this nature-rich forest is the seasonal flowers. In spring, you can see azaleas, double cherry blossoms, and peonies; in summer, snapdragons, four o’clock flowers, and hydrangeas bloom; in autumn, you’ll find maples and camellias. Visitors can enjoy seasonal plants and flowers all year round. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and spend a relaxing time in nature.