Bashamichi Shopping Avenue

Shopping

Bashamichi is a street where the first gas lights, the first boulevard trees, the first ice cream, and many other western cultures were introduced for the first time in Japan. The name Bashamichi (Horse-drawn Carriage Street) is derived from the fact that carriages carrying foreigners frequently went up and down this street at the time of the opening of the port. Upon passing below an iron arch with carriage designs, a tranquil street and many historical buildings will welcome visitors.

Today, various festivals and events are held every year to commemorate its history. During the Bashamichi Festival, Horse-drawn carriages, rickshaws, and ladies dressed in clothes from Rokumeikan era (1880’s) will parade through the Street. There will be a Street Market, Concert, Rakugo, Japanese sit-down comedy, Gas-lighting Ceremony, and much more.