Situated in Fukushima Prefecture's Minami-Aizu region, Ouchi-juku thrived as a crucial post town connecting Aizu Wakamatsu and Nikko Imaichi during the Edo period. Preserving the ambiance of the Edo era, the thatched-roof houses line the streets, with locals living in them as combined shops and residences. Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1981, Ouchi-juku upholds the mantra of "not for sale, not for rent, not to be destroyed," safeguarding the village's scenery for future generations.

The village operates as a blend of shops and homes, each with varying opening hours. Engage in the traditional experience by coordinating with skilled artisans known as "kayade," who collaborate to maintain the thatched roofs. Ouchi-juku is committed to preserving its historical charm and cultural essence for generations to come through the establishment of the Ouchi-juku Preservation and Maintenance Foundation in April 2020.

Visit Ouchi-juku for a glimpse into Japan's historical legacy