Tourist attraction • Japan, 〒639-1134 Nara, Yamatokoriyama, Yanagi, 3-chōme−４−２８
Yanagimachi Shopping Street in Oyamazaki, Nara Prefecture, may seem like an ordinary shopping street at first glance, but it is actually home to a rare attraction called 'Goldfish Street.' Within the nostalgic townscape, the sight of colorful goldfish crossing paths feels like a journey back to the Edo period.
Goldfish has deep ties with Nara. It is said that goldfish were introduced to the Nara Basin, where Heijokyo (the ancient capital) was located, in the 7th century, and have been cherished as a popular pastime since the Nara period. The goldfish culture nurtured in this area has been inherited to the present day, and Goldfish Street stands as a symbolic presence of that tradition.
Walking through the shopping street, one can find goldfish everywhere. Various attractions related to goldfish, such as colorful goldfish tanks lined up in front of old townhouses, goldfish-shaped Ramune (Japanese soda) and ice cream, and goldfish scooping stalls, can be enjoyed.
Among them, a must-try is the 'Okinagoshichou' stamp rally, which allows participants to join for 500 yen. While solving the mysteries hidden in the goldfish tanks at the shops and collecting stamps from the surrounding shops, visitors can fully savor the charm of Goldfish Street through exploration.
Goldfish Street is about a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. It is also within walking distance from Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station. There are numerous accommodation facilities in Nara Prefecture, and it is especially popular during the fresh green season and autumn foliage in April and May. When visiting Goldfish Street, it is recommended to also explore famous places in the ancient capital, such as Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple.
Goldfish Street is a charming and hidden gem unique to Nara, where the old-fashioned atmosphere and elegance are vividly preserved. While experiencing the goldfish culture, visitors can indulge in the leisurely flow of time. Strolling through the streets of the ancient capital and immersing in the nostalgic atmosphere of the alleyways, visitors can enjoy a luxurious experience that is truly the hidden gem of Nara.