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Showa no Machi in Bungotakada

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Showa no Machi in Bungotakada

A retro shopping district that recreates the streetscape of Japan in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

3.30 3

Last update :
Supervised by :  Bungotakada Tourism and Community Development Co., Ltd.

This shopping district is located in Bungotakada City in northeastern Oita Prefecture. Retro storefronts line the 550-meter-long street, recreating the atmosphere of the late 1950s and early 1960s, when the town was bustling with activity. It offers a nostalgic experience that feels as if time has stood still.

Each store displays a valuable tool once used there as its “one-store, one-treasure” exhibit. Stores also sell a signature item passed down through generations as their “one-store, one-item” specialty. Also worth visiting is Showa Roman-gura, a Showa-era theme park near the shopping district. It features recreations of a Showa-era home and classroom, along with nostalgic toys and games. Renting retro clothing for a stroll through town is another way to immerse yourself in the Showa-era atmosphere.

On Sundays and public holidays, a vintage bonnet bus tours the city, with the shopping district as its main stop. The free ride offers a taste of the Showa era, but seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply early.

Highlights

  • A shopping district that recreates the atmosphere of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
  • Retro storefronts line the 550-meter-long street.
  • Each store displays tools passed down through generations and sells its signature products.
  • Showa Roman-gura, which features Showa-era toys, household goods, and fashion, is also popular.
  • A vintage bonnet bus tours the town on Sundays and public holidays.

Photos

  • A shopping district filled with the atmosphere of the Showa era, complete with a vintage bonnet bus. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

    A shopping district filled with the atmosphere of the Showa era, complete with a vintage bonnet bus. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

  • Intriguing stores can be found throughout the district. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

    Intriguing stores can be found throughout the district. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

  • Don't miss Showa Roman-gura, where visitors can experience Showa-era culture. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

    Don't miss Showa Roman-gura, where visitors can experience Showa-era culture. Photo courtesy of Bungotakada City

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

Yes.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

No.

Q

Are restrooms available?
A

Yes. Accessible restrooms are also available.

Q

Is there a designated smoking area?
A

Yes. It is located inside Showa Roman-gura.

Q

Are there any tourist attractions nearby?
A

Yes. Nearby attractions include Matama Beach and numerous historic temples, such as Fukiji Temple.

Reviews

3

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Showa no Machi in Bungotakada feels like taking a time machine back to Japan's Showa era. The streets retain nostalgic buildings, vintage signs, and old shops, creating a strong retro atmosphere and offering a charm completely different from modern cities. Every corner has its own character, and it's also a great place to take souvenir photos.

    Along the way, there are many small shops displaying household items and toys from the Showa era. They gave me a glimpse into how people lived back then and showed me the care Japan puts into preserving its history and culture. Trying the local specialties added even more fun to the trip.

  • 瑞香
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    Showa no Machi really feels nostalgic. The entire street has preserved many vintage signs and old buildings, and walking through it feels like traveling back to Japan's Showa era.

  • Gina C
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    Walking into Showa no Machi in Bungotakada, Oita Prefecture, feels like taking a time machine back to the late 1950s and early 1960s.

    The streets are lined with vintage shops, nostalgic signs, and old buildings, and every corner is filled with the atmosphere of the Showa era. As you stroll around, you can not only experience the warm, down-to-earth hospitality but also admire classic vintage buses and all kinds of nostalgic collectibles that make you want to stop and take photos.

    There's none of the hustle and bustle of the city here, only a relaxing, slower pace. It's a distinctive attraction filled with memories and warmth that's worth taking the time to appreciate.

Details

Name in Japanese
豊後高田昭和の町
Postal Code
879-0628
Address
989-1 Shinmachi, Bungotakada City, Oita Prefecture
Phone
0978-23-1860 (Bungotakada Tourism and Community Development Co., Ltd.)
Closed on
Varies by store and facility
Hours
Varies by store and facility
Access
20 minutes by car from Usa Station on the JR Nippo Main Line
Credit Cards
Varies by store and facility
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa