The 4th Waiwai Hiroba

The 4th Waiwai Hiroba

Now, here are some of the trending spots within the Sakura-shi.

This is a tourist information center that houses the Kitsuregawa Tourism Association, housed in the building of the former Shimotsuke Chuo Bank Kitsuregawa Branch, built in 1913 (Taisho 2).

Occasionally, they also hold exhibitions and sales of works created by local residents.

In fact, this building was the first Sakura-shi registered as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property (building).

I recently attended a lecture commemorating the recommendation of the Waiwai Hiroba building to be registered as a national tangible cultural property.

The reason for registering was that Professor Shunichi Bando of Seisa Doto University happened to find a historical document about the 'Former Mibu Branch,' which closely resembled the 'Former Shimotsuke Chuo Bank Kitsuregawa Branch,' at a certain auction.

They certainly look like twins.

The 'former Kitsuregawa branch' is apparently a few centimeters larger.

It's even more interesting when you watch it again after knowing the story.

The walls are decorated with a four-leaf clover pattern, giving the place a retro feel.

At the back of the room, there is a large safe that was used in the past.

This dial, featuring the traditional Japanese syllabary (Iroha), is quite rare these days, so I hope you'll have a chance to see it in person.

What did you think?

Please go and see the tangible cultural properties that stand amidst the scenery of the castle town.

The tourist association also accepts reservations for tourist information provided by volunteers and offers bicycle rentals (500 yen per day).

I think it's perfect for visiting during the autumn foliage season or cherry blossom season, so please feel free to stop by!

Stay tuned for the next update!