The origin of Inami traces back over 600 years ago, to the construction of Buddhist temple  Zuisen-ji in 1390.  Over the years, the wood temple suffered multiple fire damages.  Rebuilding needs had brought skillful artisans to Inami from Kyoto. The temple became the creative ground for craftsmen to expand their carving skills.  With each rebuild, the carvings became ever more extravagant.

Artisan settlement has since then flourished at the foothill of the temple to become what Inami is today.

 

On April 2018, Inami Wood-carving has been recognized as Japan Heritage. (English coming soon.)

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 Old Chu-Etsu (now Hokuriku) Bank Building 旧中越銀行(元北銀)井波支店 locates in the center of the historic main street Yokkamachi-dori.

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This is a grass-root / community-driven / educational initiative in exploring ways to protect and preserve cultural assets for historic town with social and economic challenges.

We have set our goals in alignment with UNWTO Sustainable Development Goals.