Takasaki, a commercial town guarded by Kannon or the Goddess of Mercy
Takasaki, which prospered as a castle town in Yedo period (1603 - 1867) along Nakasen-do and Mikuni-kaido route, has been transformed as a commercial town in the present day, while remaining one of the busiest spots in the area. While the east exit of JR Takasaki station is the office street, the fashionable street with various department stores and hotels is on the west side. The unique stores along the avenue through Joshi park (ruins of a castle) attract a number of tourists and youngsters. The industrial aspect of the town is another of its characteristics. A total of 230 local industries employing traditional skills and the forefront companies including high tech, machines, and beverages are located in fifteen separate industrial districts. Looking up the hill of Mt. Kannon-yama, which extends to the west side of the city, is the merciful look of the famous statue of Byakui Dai-kannon. The cultural aspects of the town including the love for music and the admiration of nature may be the charm of Takasaki city.
