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Mikazuki Village

Step into an Edo-period mountain town where history becomes a hands-on adventure.

Mikazuki Village recreates the world of old Japan through a lively streetscape inspired by period dramas and regional legends
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No modern yen allowed—spend Edo-era coins instead!

No modern yen allowed—spend Edo-era coins instead!

Located in Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Mikazuki Village recreates the atmosphere of a roadside mountain town from the Edo period (1603–1868), when Japan was ruled by the shogunate. At the entrance, visitors exchange modern yen for Kan’ei Tsuho coins—copper coins widely used during that era. Inside the village, modern currency cannot be used; food, tea, and souvenirs are purchased with these old coins. This simple exchange immediately shifts the mood from the present to the past. Step through the gate and the scenery changes at once: rustic shops, travelers’ inns, and mountain teahouses line the streets, creating a nostalgic Edo-period village atmosphere. The layout reflects the feel of a small post-town along a historic highway, where travelers once stopped to rest before continuing their journey through the mountains.
The village is inspired by Kogarashi Monjirō, a wandering anti-hero from historical novels set in the Gunma countryside. Created by writer Saho Sasazawa, the character became widely known through novels, television dramas, and films, portraying a lone traveler moving through the rural highways and mountain villages of old Japan. A memorial hall in the village introduces the character and the world of these stories, offering a glimpse into the popular culture that helped shape the image of Edo-period life in this region. Even visitors unfamiliar with the novels can easily enjoy the setting. Weathered wooden buildings, narrow lanes, and faded signboards recreate the atmosphere of classic Japanese period dramas. Walking through the village streets feels like stepping into a historical tale set in the mountains of old Gunma.
Several unusual attractions add playful surprises to the historical streets. The Karakuri Yashiki is a trick house filled with hidden mechanisms and secret passages. The Fukashigi Dozo storehouse challenges visitors with tilted floors and strange spatial illusions, while the Kaii Gendo cave offers a slightly eerie adventure with dramatic lighting and sound effects. These attractions blend theatrical storytelling with hands-on exploration, making the experience both entertaining and immersive. Together they give Mikazuki Village its distinctive mix of history, nostalgia, and playful discovery. Walking through the recreated townscape, visitors can experience a lively interpretation of Edo-period culture that continues to fascinate people today.
Address
3320 Yabuzuka-cho, Ota City, Gunma Prefecture
Phone number
+81-277-78-5321
Business hours
Please check the official website for opening hours and closing days.
WEB site
https://iko-yo.net/facilities/1186 (Japanese only)
Digital Map

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Fashion Town Kiryu

Fashion Town Kiryu

Visit Kiryu, a city whose revived cultural heritage offers locals and visitors new ways of living in and experiencing this historical town. Tucked in the east of Gunma Prefecture, the city of Kiryu is famous for producing traditional Japanese silk textiles. Recently, Kiryu’s historic shopping district has been undergoing a cultural revival to reimagine its past, present, and future. Experience this “fashion town” firsthand to see how local communities and lifestyles are changing with the times, while protecting crafts that have been passed down over generations.

Culture & Arts
Experience & Activities
GUNMA