More than 300 years ago, Itako city (潮来市) played a significant role in the mid-Edo period, as it was surrounded by lakes and served as an important waterway town. The town boasted numerous canals through which produce from Northern Japan was transported to the capital Edo (now Tokyo). Presently, Itako is a charming small town with a rich history, lovely flower parks, and a sake brewery that is over 200 years old.
This month we met with Okawa-san from the Itako tourism department for a friendly chat about Itako City.
She shared with us what Itako is famous for, including what to eat, its beautiful flower parks, canals and some of its historical sites.