Uchiko

Author: Richard Perkins
Photos/Videos Taken: 2025/05/17
Address: Kitagun, Uchikocho, Uchiko, Ehime

Believe it or not, the number of traditional Japanese buildings is dwindling. Each year, these structures become scarcer, and it has become increasingly rare to find streets lined with them. However, that doesn’t mean such streets no longer exist. While they can’t be found everywhere, there are still areas where traditional Japanese buildings line the streets. One such place is the town of Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture, where many traditional Japanese-style buildings have been preserved, allowing visitors to wander through a truly unique Japanese setting.

Here, many buildings remain from the Edo period (1603-1868), Meiji period (1868-1912), and the Taishō era (1912-1926). Notably, buildings such as the 内子座 (uchiko-za) stand out. This is a theatre where 歌舞伎 (kabuki—a classical theater performed by male actors) is performed. Although designated an “important cultural property” in 2015, Uchiko-za was once at risk of demolition. Thanks to the efforts of local residents, the building was restored and reopened in October 1985. On days without performances, visitors can tour inside. Besides hosting kabuki, Uchiko-za was once a movie theater and (even) the local chamber of commerce office. Today, it hosts not only kabuki performances, but also concerts and various school programs.

Another notable building in Uchiko is the 旭館 (asahi-kan) movie theatre. Opening in 1925, it originally functioned as the Katsudō photo studio, but was later reopened as a cinema, where it screened various films until 1969. After its closure, the building was used to display furniture and also served as a storehouse. In 2013, it was designated a “registered tangible cultural property”. Unfortunately, one isn’t usually allowed inside, but events are often held here, offering one the opportunity to have a look inside.

Besides the restored buildings, there is a structure here that has been converted into a small museum. Originally built from the Edo period to the Meiji period, the Museum of Commercial and Domestic Life features a replica pharmacy and showcases the typical lifestyle of a family from 1921. The museum is in a house that belonged to a merchant’s family. While exploring this traditional Japanese home, visitors can learn what it was like to run a business (a pharmacy) in this era. The exhibits include life-sized figures, various models, and prerecorded audio playing period-appropriate language. It’s easy to understand how people lived at that time. Although the museum is not large, there’s plenty to learn here.

Alongside its many historical and beautiful Japanese buildings, Uchiko is also renowned for producing 和蝋燭 (wa-rōsoku), traditional Japanese candles. In particular, the town was famous for making 木蝋 (mokurō—a type of Japanese wax), which was used in these candles. While there may not be as many stores as before, candles are still made and available for purchase here. Uchiko is also known for converting some historic houses into shops that sell souvenirs and local handicrafts, as well as cafes. Visitors can shop and relax in an authentically Japanese setting while enjoying a leisurely look at distinctive Japanese architecture.

In Japan, it's common to demolish old buildings and construct new ones after a certain number of years. As a result, many traditional Japanese buildings have disappeared. Uchiko is a well-known tourist destination where visitors can enjoy the traditional Japanese townscape. However, towns with rows of preserved historic buildings in one area are rare. Uchiko is a place one will want to take the time to explore. With its abundance of historic buildings, it’s undoubtedly a valuable part of Japan. Easily accessible by public transportation, Ehime Prefecture is worth visiting just for this town. When visiting this prefecture, be sure to stop by and enjoy this unique and beautiful town.