During the Edo period (1603–1867), the shogun controlled sekisho, or checkpoints, on all the highways that lead in and out of Edo (modern day Tokyo). These checkpoints were crucial areas where officials would regulate trade and search all travelers to check for weapons, rebels and criminals.
At the Hokkoku Kaido History Information Center, you can learn about these unique checkpoints and the role they played in history. There are artifacts with detailed descriptions in Japanese and English featured in the exhibition hall, as well as a tour through the reconstruction of a checkpoint, where you can walk around and re-enact a day at the Seki River border. The information center even offers fun props where visitors can dress up in kimono and traditional-style headpieces. All this combined with the detailed models in each room give you a vivid look at how things played out back in the Edo era.