It has retained the old town feel, with cables and wires all hidden underground. The residents using the buildings with their 3-part creed: "Don't Sell, Don't Lend, Don't Tear Down." They really try their best to recreate the ambiance of the Edo Period.

Handmade Soba (buckwheat Noodle) with a firmness of texture and fullness of flavor. Gohei Mochi (sticky rice on a skewer) is made from white rice and pounded into a sticky cake, coated in a sweet sauce, and aromatically cooked over a flame.

The down has plenty of cafe's, souvenir shops, restaurants, and museums. I loved exploring the little shops with different crafts and snacks.