Monzen Shopping Street

Each shop on Monzen Shopping Street has its own spring. Although the water all comes from the same source, many of the shops have given their spring a playful nickname. For example, the local bank’s water is called kin no mizu, or “gold water,” a tongue-in-cheek reference to money. These nicknames, though playful, are a symbol of the deep connection between Aso’s residents and their region’s natural resources. The pedestrian-friendly shopping street leads to Aso Jinja Shrine (monzen means “before the shrine gate”). The street is lined with restaurants and cafés, as well as shops selling fresh Aso produce, souvenirs, and baked goods.