Katō

Shimo-michi lay along the western bank of the Takahashi River and its tributaries in Bitchū. Its old district contained early Buddhist temples, including the sites at Hatawara and Yata, whose roof tiles reflect the distinctive traditions of the Kibi region. In the Edo period, the Itō lords of Okada domain established their residence in the district, first at Kawabe and later at Okada. Their small domain held lands beyond Bitchū as well.