Written by Aarohi Narain
Located in the Hirata district of Izumo, Momen Kaidō was once a thriving commercial artery, where merchants traded in cotton throughout western Japan.
While the textile industry has long since moved on, the spirit of the era endures in the district’s Meiji and Taishō-era buildings, many of which have been carefully restored and designated as National Cultural Properties.
Today, the narrow streets are home to a small but vibrant network of shops. You can admire details like lattice windows, clay-tile roofs, and storehouses with namako-kabe (sea cucumber) plaster walls.
What is there to see and do?
There are several historic shops, including a confectioner, sake brewery, soy-sauce maker, and postcard shop.
Among the newer shops are an Italian restaurant and craft-beer brewery.
The Cotton Road Exchange Building functions as a tourist information center. Head here to inquire about tours and experiences.
Hotels
If you’d like to stay longer and feel like an affluent local merchant yourself, Nipponia Izumo puts you right in the middle of all the action — and the calm.
How to get there
Walk about 10 minutes from Unshū-Hirata Station.
