This area has prospered as a critical junction point between Kyoto, Nara, and Ise for 500 years, and was originally developed as a castle town for the Akiyama clan, which ruled the region. Today, it feels like a Japanese architecture museum, containing many historic buildings unchanged since the Edo Period (16th-18th century). In 2006, it was designated as one of the national Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Buildings. The town has a deep connection to traditional healing practices, and many shops and businesses related to medicine and herbs. A stroll through the streets is certain to summon feelings of nostalgia for Japan’s rich history.
Address
1846 Oudahirou, Uda City, Nara Prefecture
Public transportation
5-minute walk from Udajiouda Rest Area (道の駅宇陀路大宇陀) or the bus stop Ouda (大宇陀). Take a bus from Haibara Station (榛原駅) bound for Ouda. Get off at the final stop and walk for 5 minutes.
Uda Matsuyama Historic Townscape = 宇陀松山地区