Retro ＆ Moden “Furukawacho Shopping Arcade” Full of 1,000 Colorgul Lanterns

“Furukawacho Shopping Arcade” (古川町商店街) in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto Prefecture located in the area, which many people have been visiting for a long time as the approach leading to Chion-in, Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple. Currently, it’s famous for the pastel lanterns that are hanging from the arcade. This shopping street makes you feel like the Showa atmosphere, but new stores open one after another. Have a great nostalgic time while taking a leisurely walk.

As mentioned in the beginning, “Furukawacho Shopping Arcade” is located in the approach where there are temples representing Kyoto. The street which was commonly called Wakasa-kaido road was turned to be Furukawamachi Street in 1666 and continues to the present day. It seems that the road was also called ‘Saba Kaido (mackerel road ) because it was used as the route for delivering marine products from the sea of Japan to the capital of Kyoto. In addition, it was also a significant road that has passed down the cultures of the continent and Korea to Kyoto and Nara.

When the arcade was built in 1972, around 50 stores had opened. Currently, a variety of about 40 stores from the long-established stores which have a history of over 200 years to the home-roasted cafe are lined up on the street 220m from north to south. Furthermore, it’s famous for the 1,000 colorful pastel lanterns that are hanging from the arcade. The sight that continues to the back of the street, it’s sure that you’re getting excited just seeing it. This street somehow feels nostalgic, and Showa atmosphere. You can enjoy a nostalgic time as well.

According to the concept of ”retro ＆modern”, new shops are opening one after another. When you visit the nearby Chion-in or Yasaka Shrine, please stop by Furukawa Shopping Arcade too.