About
In the heart of Matsumoto, where the gentle flow of the Metoba River whispers tales of yore, lies a street that seems to have been woven from the very fabric of time itself. This is Nawate-dōri, a slender thoroughfare that stretches like a taut rope along the river's edge, its name—meaning "Rope Hand Street"—a nod to its elongated form. Once a mere embankment flanked by the castle's outer moat and the river, it has transformed into a vibrant tapestry of history and culture.
As you step onto this pedestrian haven, the clamor of modern life fades, replaced by the harmonious blend of past and present. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of freshly baked senbei and the sweet allure of taiyaki, beckoning passersby to indulge in these traditional delights. Shops adorned with wooden facades line the street, each a portal to a bygone era, offering treasures ranging from antique curios to handcrafted souvenirs.
Amidst this nostalgic ambiance, the presence of frogs is unmistakable. Stone sculptures of these amphibians, each with its own whimsical expression, dot the landscape, serving as silent guardians of the street. This motif harks back to a time when the Metoba River teemed with kajika frogs, their melodious croaks serenading the town. As the river's purity waned, so did the frogs' song, but the community's reverence for these creatures endured. In 1972, the Kaeru Daimyōjin shrine was erected, a testament to the town's desire to "kaeru"—to return—to a time of clarity and vitality. (visitmatsumoto.com)
Strolling further, the Four Pillars Shrine, or Yotsuhashi Jinja, emerges, its presence both serene and commanding. Established in 1879, this sanctuary enshrines deities believed to grant all wishes, drawing visitors seeking blessings and solace. The shrine's architecture, with its intricate woodwork and gracefully curved eaves, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears. (natsuzora.com)
The street's charm is further amplified by seasonal festivals that breathe life into its historic veins. The annual Kaeru Matsuri, or Frog Festival, transforms Nawate-dōri into a lively spectacle, celebrating the amphibian symbol with parades, performances, and a myriad of frog-themed merchandise. It's a time when the community's spirit is palpable, and the street pulses with joy and camaraderie. (visitmatsumoto.com)
As dusk descends, lanterns cast a warm glow, their light dancing upon the cobblestones, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The gentle murmur of the river accompanies the soft chatter of evening strollers, and the scent of grilled delicacies wafts through the air, inviting one to linger a little longer.
Nawate-dōri is more than just a street; it's a living narrative, a bridge between epochs, where every stone and storefront tells a story. It's a place where the past is not merely remembered but is vibrantly alive, inviting all who tread its path to become part of its ongoing tale.