Showa no Machi" in Bungotakada City 2
"Showa no Machi" in Bungotakada City is a nostalgic town that recreates the vibrant atmosphere of a 1950s shopping street in Japan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm, retro ambiance of the Showa era as they stroll through streets lined with vintage signs and buildings. Each shop proudly showcases its history with displays of a unique treasure (Itten Ippo) and sells an iconic item passed down through generations (Itten Ippin), adding to the charm of the town. The Showa no Machi Bonnet Bus operates primarily on Sundays and public holidays, offering free tours of the area. On select months, the bus also provides routes to popular nearby attractions like Fukiji Temple, Maki Odo, and the Kumano Magaibutsu Buddha carvings. Since the schedule varies, visitors are encouraged to check the Bungotakada City Tourism Association's website for the latest details. Established in 2001, "Showa no Machi" received the 2017 Asian Townscape Award, a prestigious honor recognizing projects that create happy and sustainable living environments across Asia while serving as a model for other cities. Although the town had received several accolades before, this was its first internationally recognized award, solidifying its reputation as an outstanding cultural and scenic destination.