Japan Guide
Northern Honshū
Sightseeing Information Centre
The Sightseeing Information Centre houses an information desk, crafts displays and a float pavilion (same hours; free) in the hall behind. These floats, which mostly carry tableaux depicting historical scenes, originated in the late seventeenth century when merchants would parade them round the streets as part of a local shrine festival – an English pamphlet is available. Beyond the float pavilion, two colourful Western-style buildings stand out against the sleek concrete and steel. Opening time: Daily 9am–6pm