By Aoi Travel Video
This travel vlog immerses viewers in the atmospheric streets of Seki-juku (関宿), a post town on the historic Tokaido route in Mie Prefecture. The video begins with an introduction to Seki-juku, highlighting its significance as one of the best-preserved stations of the Tokaido, the vital road that once connected Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto. The rainy weather adds to the town’s nostalgic ambiance, showcasing the rich history and beautiful old architecture lining the streets.
The journey continues with a visit to an old Japanese house café, ‘Cafe Keep’ (古民家カフェ きーぷ), where travelers can unwind in a retro environment that blends traditional architecture with modern hospitality. The café’s cozy interiors and views of the rain-soaked town enhance the sense of tranquility, allowing visitors to experience a slower pace of life reminiscent of Japan’s past.
Next, the vlogger stops by Chokantei (眺関亭), a scenic lookout that offers sweeping vistas of Seki-juku. From here, viewers can appreciate the layout of the ancient post town nestled against the green hills. The tour concludes with an evening meal at Dining Yamaishi (御食事処 山石), a local eatery specializing in regional cuisine, and finally a nighttime stroll through the rain-drenched, lantern-lit streets—a fitting capstone to a day spent soaking in historic charm. Seki-juku is known for its well-preserved Edo-period townscape, featuring wooden machiya townhouses and traditional inns, making it an excellent destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture. Easily accessed from major cities in Mie, Seki-juku remains a lesser-known gem along the Tokaido for those seeking old-world ambiance and a deeper connection with Japan’s past.