Gojō, Mountain town in Nara Prefecture, Japan
Gojō is a town in Nara Prefecture that stretches along a river between forested hills. Wooden houses and shops line narrow streets, while fruit orchards spread across the slopes above.
The town was formally established in the mid-20th century, but the merchant quarter by the river existed for centuries before. Traders built their homes and storehouses there during the Edo era.
The town takes its name from an old crossing where travelers once met on their way through the mountains. Orchards and small workshops line the roads today, where families still prepare local products using methods passed down over generations.
Walking through the town is manageable since most areas of interest sit close together. Two train stations connect the area to other regions and make arrival straightforward.
An old merchant residence combines two separate buildings from the early 20th century in one courtyard. One section displays traditional mat rooms, while the other serves as a renovated storehouse with modern interiors.
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