Sankyo Warehouses

What to know

The Sankyo Warehouses (Sankyo Sōko) are a complex of rice storehouses in Sakata that now also serve as a tourist attraction with a rice museum, scenic grounds, and a shop selling local products. During the feudal era, Japan's most important shipping route connected the north with Osaka via ports along the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea, and Sakata became a key trading hub. The Shonai Plain around Sakata is one of Japan's few large plains, ideal for growing high-quality rice. This celebrated local rice became Sakata's most profitable commodity, and the Sankyo Warehouses have historically been where rice from the surrounding farmland is shipped and stored before going to market.

Originally built in 1893, the complex consists of a long row of 15 storehouses, most of which are still used to store rice from the Shonai Plain. The area has become popular with visitors not only for its historical significance but also for its picturesque setting, including a path lined with zelkova trees along the perimeter and lovely views along the riverbank.

The warehouse at the far back of the complex houses the Historical Museum of Shonai Rice (currently closed indefinitely), with exhibits on the history and processes of rice harvesting. Displays include examples of different rice crops, still-life scenes of harvesting, and a weighted bag that visitors can lift to feel the burden rice workers carried. The Yume no Kura complex in the front two buildings contains a souvenir shop selling local crafts and produce, a restaurant, and a small museum detailing Sakata's culture and history.

The Sankyo Warehouses are a 30-minute walk from JR Sakata Station. Alternatively, they can be reached in about 5-10 minutes by Run Run bus (200 yen), regular city bus (260 yen), or taxi (around 1000 yen).