“Townscape with Udatsu” in Mino — Japan’s Timeless Elegance in Clay, Paper & Light

Introduction: Step into a World Where Time Slows Down

Nestled in the very heart of Gifu Prefecture, just 50 minutes by car from Nagoya, lies Mino — a quiet town wrapped in mountains and rivers. Rich with history and deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship, Mino is home to one of Japan’s most charming historical districts: the “Townscape with Udatsu.”
As you stroll into its streets lined with white-walled buildings and timber-framed facades, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back into the Edo period.

Legacy: The Prestige Behind “Udatsu”

The term "Udatsu" refers to the firebreak walls built on the ends of traditional Japanese rooftops. In the Edo period, they served both a practical and symbolic purpose — not only did they help prevent the spread of fires, but they also became status symbols for wealthy merchants.

Each "udatsu" is a unique work of architecture, featuring ornate clay tiles and wall designs that reflect the prestige of the household. As you explore the town, take time to capture these decorative details from multiple angles — don’t just focus on the beautiful roof tiles, but include the intricate wall structures to fully appreciate their historical value.
It's like walking through an open-air museum of social history and architectural artistry.

Experience: The Soul of Mino in Handmade Paper

Mino is internationally celebrated as one of the three great washi (Japanese handmade paper) centers, alongside Echizen and Tosa. With over 1,300 years of history, Mino Washi is known for its incredible thinness, strength, and translucency.
It has been used in everything from ancient palace documents to national treasure restoration, and even featured in the official certificate paper of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

At the Mino Washi Akari Art Gallery, traditional paper merges with modern illumination in a poetic display of light and texture.
For a hands-on experience, visit one of the local washi studios where you can craft your own paper using traditional techniques — a refined, mindful activity that pairs beautifully with luxury travel.
Few souvenirs carry the weight of such cultural and tactile authenticity.

Immersion: Beauty in All Seasons, Festivals for All Senses

The area hosts the Mino Festival in spring and the enchanting Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition in autumn, making any season a perfect time to visit.

At the Mino Washi Light Art Exhibition, lanterns made from Mino washi paper are lined up along the streets lined with udatsu, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

Surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, crystal-clear mountain streams in summer, fiery foliage in fall, and snow-kissed rooftops in winter — Mino offers a visual symphony throughout the year.
Every visit reveals something new, something deeper. It's no wonder this hidden gem continues to captivate global travelers seeking authentic, immersive journeys.

📘 Multilingual Travel Brochure Available

To help you learn more about the attractions of Mino City, the city has prepared tourist brochures in multiple languages.
Both a comprehensive guide and a digest version are available in English, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (Simplified & Traditional).
Perfect for planning your visit or sharing with friends before your trip — pick one up at the tourist information center or download it online.