Mino City, famous for producing Mino washi paper, was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the national government in 1999 for its "Udatsu-agaru Townscape," making it a popular tourist destination. Many traditional buildings from the Edo period remain in the city, creating a very charming streetscape. The city is famous for its Mino Festival, held every April. It is a lively festival featuring flower mikoshi (portable shrines) and floats. Another popular event is the Tour of Japan Mino Stage, a bicycle race featuring famous cyclists from around the world. The Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition, which uses Mino washi paper, a specialty of Mino City, is also popular.