“After the castle was built in 1609, a shopping district was established in Kawaramachi. It spanned 1.5 kilometers from east to west and was known as the best shopping district in Tamba. In recent years, the area has suffered from an economic decline due to the increase in vacant shops. However, these old shops are now being repurposed as cafes and craft stores, creating a boost in the economy as well as an increase in tourism.”