Gujo Hachiman is a charming historic town established when the Gujo Hachiman Castle was built in 1599. 400 years on, the town still preserves the traditional townscape with many historic buildings and original waterways from the 17th century, earning the nickname: “Little Kyoto.” The town has several historic quarters, such as Kajiya-machi, Shokunin-machi, Yanagi-machi and Yanaka Mizu-no-komichi, featuring traditional wooden lattice-façade houses, narrow cobble-stoned streets and historic canal. Situated in a valley where three major rivers meet, the town has developed a canal system in the 17th century which are still used today. In some water lanes, the water is so clean that carps inhabit in it. “Sogisui” is a famous spring water on the bank of River Odara. The spring water is split in three sections for drinking, washing food and clothes, respectively. Surprisingly, Gujo Hachiman has many interesting small museums and galleries, which demonstrates its rich cultural heritage. Among those, Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan (Gujo Hachiman City Museum) offers visitors a chance to learn the famous Gujo dance. The Gujo dance is a folk dance developed 400 years ago and has been performed in every summer. It is designated as Important Itangible Cultural Property. The town also has numerous historic temples and shrines, including Jionzen-ji Temple, founded in 1606 that has a beautiful zen garden. Gujo Hachiman City Museum

Housed in a former tax office built in the early 20th century, Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan is a city museum of Gujo Hachiman. The exhibits are divided into four themes: water, history, traditional crafts and Gujo dance. Gujo dance lessons are available year-round. Address: 50 Tonoma-chi, Hachiman-cho, Gujo city Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Holiday: December 24-January 2 Admission: Adult 500 yen, Child 300 yen Email: gunjohaku@gunjohachiman.com