English

Countryside
Stay
Japan
web magazine

Welcome to Japan’s glorious countryside!
In Japan, a country surrounded by sea and covered in mountains across three-quarters of
its surface, you are never very far away from lush, natural areas that vary from region toregion. Influenced by variations in local climate, these regions have also developed theirown unique cultures.

Hokkaido
3

2

Enjoy a leisurely stay at a farm, mountain, or fishing village, take in spectacular views
while immersing yourself in each of the four seasons, and get closer to local people
through their traditional lifestyles and regional cuisine. These one-of-a-kind experiences
far from the urban jungle will move you in ways you never thought possible.

1

Take a trip to Japan’s countryside and feel right at home.
Try making cuisine using natural freeze-dried
ingredients, known as shimi, in Chino City, Nagano(p. 15)Countryside Stay Japan

Contents

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TohokuKansai---------------------------------------------- P24

6

Hokkaido--------------------------------------- P4

4

12

A forest in Kyoto where the quaint atmosphere ofa traditional farm village is preserved

Take a walk around Kushiroshitsugen National Park

11

Hokuriku

1 Tsurui Village, Hokkaido----------P5■

Savor unique Japanese wines

18

20

2 Yoichi Town, Hokkaido--------------P6■
3 Biei Town, Hokkaido-------------------P7
■

21

19

Try on a kimono in safflower country

22

4 Shirataka Town, Yamagata------P9
■

9

13

Kansai

ChugokuTohoku----------------------------------------------P8

10
16

A hilly town with gorgeous seasonal scenery

Tokai

17

Shikoku

7

A nature-rich town with a deeply-rooted medicinal herb
cultureKanto

17 Uda City, Nara------------------------------- P26■

8

Savor delicacies from food paradise Tamba in an old mansion
Japanese washi papermaking experience in Mino City,
Gifu (P20)

Enjoy the bountiful seafood and coastal scenery of
the Sea of Japan14

5 Hachimantai City, Iwate---------- P10■

16 Miyama Town, Kyoto----------------- P25■

Hokuriku -------------------------------------P16
15

Immerse yourself in the nature of Towada-Hachimantai
National Park

10 Obama City, Fukui----------------------P17■

Try special cuisine unique to places with heavy snowfall

Kyushu11 Joetsu City, Niigata----------------------P18■

Come to understand the power of the ocean at one of
Tohoku’s leading port towns

Rows of traditional Gassho-style homes

6 Kesennuma City, Miyagi-----------P11■

12 Nanto City, Toyama---------------------P19■

Kanto------------------------------------------------ P12

TokaiFeel at home in a rural village

Experience the culture of washi paper and ayu sweetfish
cuisine

7 Nakagawa Town &■Ohtawara City, Tochigi------------ P13

Stay at a 200-year-old farmhouse

23

Okinawa24-------------------------------------------------- P20

13 Mino City, Gifu----------------------------- P21■

Taste wild game meat in a secluded hot spring area8

■ Chichibu City, Saitama--------------P14

14 Inabu, Toyota City, Aichi--------- P22■

Try shimi, a method of naturally freeze-drying food

Chat with active ama divers

9 Chino City, Nagano---------------------P15■

2

Settlement of Gassho-style houses in Gokayama, Toyama (P19)15 Toba City, Mie------------------------------- P23■

18 Tambasasayama City,■

Hyogo------------------------------------------------P27

Chugoku & Shikoku---- P28
Visit a settlement in the secluded Iya district

19 Miyoshi City, Tokushima--------- P29■

Observe the atmosphere of a hot spring resort town thattakes visitors back in time

20 Yunotsu Town, Shimane--------- P30■

A mountain village from Japanese mythology

21 Okuizumo Town, Shimane---- P31■

Kyushu & Okinawa------- P32
Learn about kurume kasuri textiles and other crafts

22 Yame City, Fukuoka------------------- P33■

Experience blue waters and unique island traditions andcultures

23 Amami City, Kagoshima---------- P34■

Throw yourself into a dynamic adventure at a Natural
World Heritage site

24 Higashi Village, Okinawa-------- P35
■

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1

Walk around Kushiroshitsugen
National Park and enjoy cheese andwild game in a dairy farming village●Tsurui Village, Hokkaido
Tsurui Village is a peaceful spot in eastern Hokkaido that sits alongside
Kushiroshitsugen National Park. This park is home to the largest marsh in Japan, Kushiro
Marsh, which makes up around 60 percent of Japan’s total marshlands. The red-crowned
crane, which at one point was thought to be extinct in Japan, was rediscovered deep inside
the park at Cape Kirakotan. This area has been designated a special protection zone andis only accessible with permission from the Agency for Cultural Affairs, therefore it isrecommended that you visit with a guided tour. A guide can also provide greater insight
into the surrounding area and plant life.
Tsurui Village is also one of Hokkaido’s most notable dairy farming villages, and it
offers a variety of farm stays where you can experience life on a dairy farm and stay at thefarm overnight. Dishes made from fresh raw milk and cheese are a must-try in Tsurui. You
can also take part in an authentic cheese-making experience. Heart’n Tree Guest House& Cottage, a local guesthouse, proudly supports local dairy farmers, serving a range ofdishes that use plenty of local milk. The guesthouse is also well renowned for its wild gamedishes featuring Yezo sika deer, which are hunted to protect local forests, plants, and crops.
Walk through the marshlands and feel one with nature, then get your fill of delicious
cuisine. Take time to delight in the luxury of utter relaxation amid this rural landscape.

Hokkaido
4

Heart’n Tree Guest House & Cottage

1 Tsuruinishi, Tsurui-mura, Akan-gun,
Hokkaido496-4 Setsuri, Tsurui-mura, Akan-gun,
Hokkaido

Japanese webpage https://hotel-taito.com/

https://heartntree.jimdo.com/language/
english/tourism/hiking/Wade into marshes on a tour to Cape Kirakotan

Hokkaido is located north of Japan’s main island of Honshu and covers over
20 percent of the country’s total area. Temperatures in the region rarely
rise above 30°C, even in summer, and tropical nights of 25°C and above
are uncommon. The low humidity and pleasant temperatures make summer
the perfect season to explore Hokkaido. Winters, on the other hand, areextremely cold. Sapporo gets an average snowfall of over six meters, andvisitors to mountainous areas can enjoy high-quality powder snow. With
six national parks, the untouched natural landscapes preserved across theregion are yet another draw. You can also find a wide variety of flora andfauna here that is unique to Hokkaido. Taking advantage of the region’s vast
tracts of land, dairy farming has become a thriving industry that produces
delicious and highly regarded milk and cheese.

Taito Nature Club

Dinners at Heart’n Tree are packed full of local ingredients

The red-crowned crane, designated a Special Natural Monument of Japan5

3

Gaze across a vast landscape that spreads
as far as the eye can see in a hilly town withgorgeous seasonal scenery●Biei Town, Hokkaido
Biei Town stretches out from the foot of the Tokachi mountain range in Daisetsuzan
National Park. Rolling hills form an idyllic landscape of undulating waves that enchants
visitors. Also known as the “town of hills,” Biei offers various observation points aroundtown with views of the patchwork-like hills and flower fields from spring to autumn, andpure white snowscapes in winter. A drive along Patchwork Road will take you past all the
beautiful scenery that Biei has to offer.
The vast and varied farmland is what makes this landscape so beautiful. Vegetables
such as asparagus are harvested in spring, while wheat, sweetcorn, tomatoes, and melons
emerge in summer, followed by potatoes, onions, and pumpkins in autumn. If you join
the walking tour that takes you along a footpath through the patchwork hills of Biei, you
can get special permission to walk atop a normally inaccessible hilltop from the farmers.
Meanwhile, Cottage SPOONVALLEY, a sweet cottage that looks like something straightfrom a fairy tale, also has its own farm where you can enjoy typical Biei cuisine served withplenty of vegetables. Let yourself fully unwind in the midst of this magnificent scenery.
Footpath Walking Tour along
the Patchwork Hills of Biei
Biei Tourism Association (Shiki no Johokan), 1-2-14 Motomachi,
Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido (meetup location)
https://mybiei.jp/en/event/p=437/

Cottage SPOONVALLEY, which feels like stepping
into a fairy tale

Experience harvesting wheat from a wheat field

Cottage SPOONVALLEY
Okubo Kyosei, Omura, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun,
Hokkaido
Japanese webpage https://spoonvalley.com/

Walk along a footpath atop hills on a walking tour through farmland

There’s also a tour where you can enjoy wine with apple pie among the grapevines

2

Savor unique Japanese wines
at a small Hokkaido port town overlooking
the Sea of Japan●Yoichi Town, Hokkaido
Yoichi is a small port town in western Hokkaido that looks out over the Sea of Japan.
Drive out of Yoichi toward the mountains and you will soon begin to see beautiful hills
covered in vineyards. This area was designated a Special District for Wine in 2011, and it
attracts considerable attention both locally and internationally as one of Japan’s foremost
regions for winemaking. Widely cultivated in Yoichi are grape varieties for white wines
characterized by their refreshing acidity and rich fruitiness, as well as those used for pinot
noir, which are considered difficult to cultivate in Japan. There is also a tour where you canenjoy a glass right in the middle of a splendid vineyard.
Yoichi LOOP is a hotel in front of Yoichi Station that has been designed specificallyfor the enjoyment of wine. On the first floor is a restaurant that serves Yoichi wine pairedwith “Yoichi cuisine,” which features dishes prepared by cooking seafood caught fromthe port town’s bountiful waters, freshly harvested vegetables, and other delicacies using
French, Spanish, and Japanese cooking techniques. The wine theme continues throughout
the entire building, with winery and other wine-themed accommodations on the second
and third floors.
The town is also dotted with restaurants where you can try a variety of different wines.
Gazing out at Yoichi’s vineyards while enjoying local cuisine paired with a glass or two of
wine will allow you to appreciate Yoichi’s terroir with all five senses.
Taste the Vineyards TourNot disclosed
https://www.experienceyoichi.com/index.html

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Yoichi LOOP, a modern hotel renovated from an
old building. Rooms with kitchenettes are alsoavailable

A glass of local wine served alongside a terrine withlayers of fresh herring and seasonal vegetables

Yoichi LOOP
4-123 Kurokawacho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido
https://yoichiwine.co.jp/loop3/en/index.html

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4

Try on a kimono in safflower country
and enjoy local fine dining dishes●Shirataka Town, Yamagata
Nestled between mountains to the east and west and split by a large river flowing
through its center, Shirataka is a town blessed with nature. In this once thriving base forsilkworm rearing and silk weaving, a style of woven textile with intricate patterns called
Shirataka Tsumugi has been preserved and passed down as an important traditional craftof the town. Shirataka is also known for growing safflower, which is used as an ingredientin dye, and has been recognized as a Japanese Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage
System. Meanwhile, NIPPONIA Shirataka Gennai House is a hotel and “kimono
retreat” dedicated to sharing the joy of kimono and the natural features of the town. Hotelguests can experience getting dressed up in kimono. After being dressed by a local kimono
professional, guests can walk around freely in full kimono attire. Strolling around thecountryside in kimono while enjoying the unique scenery of the seasons, such as cherry
blossoms in spring and golden foliage in autumn, will certainly become an unforgettable
memory. Shirataka Town is also popular thanks to its rich food culture. A wide variety
of ingredients can be harvested throughout the year, including traditional vegetables
cultivated in the region for centuries, wild mountain vegetables, fruits, and more. Local
townspeople follow a long-standing tradition of eating soba (buckwheat) noodles during
festivals and other celebratory occasions, and popular soba noodle spots can be found all
across town. This area is one where you can get a sense of the local climate and history
from its food.
NIPPONIA Shirataka Gennai House

Hana no Yakata

183-1 Asadachi, Shirataka-machi,
Nishiokitama-gun, Yamagata

1707-1 Juo, Shirataka-machi,
Nishiokitama-gun, Yamagata

Japanese webpage https://nipponia-shirataka.com/

Japanese webpage http://www.sgic.jp/k/Try on a kimono at an inn created by renovating the main houseand storehouse of a home that has been in existence for 11 generations

T ohoku
Across the north part of Japan’s main island of Honshu lies the Tohoku region,
which is made up of the six prefectures of Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita,
Yamagata, and Fukushima. The area is surrounded by ocean and mountains
and undergoes distinct changes from season to season; it is particularly
during the winter months, when snow lies deep on the ground, that theunique lifestyle and customs of local people can be witnessed. Tohoku ishome to thriving agriculture and fishing industries that take advantage ofthe area’s rich natural environment, while tranquil countryside sceneries
spreading here and there lend the area a simple and rustic atmosphere. The
unique food culture and local cuisine, which reflect the local ingredientsand climate, form yet another part of Tohoku’s charm.

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Savor the chance to try high-quality meatand seasonal vegetables

A field of safflowers in Shirataka Town. The flowers bloom between late June and early August

95

Immerse yourself in the sublime andmystical nature of Towada-Hachimantai
National Park

●Hachimantai City, Iwate
Located in the Tohoku region, Iwate Prefecture is known for its beautiful coastline,
picturesque nature, and lush green mountains. Hachimantai City, tucked away in themountains, is the perfect place to take in the stunning nature and tranquility of Iwate.
From walking tours to forest exploration, a plethora of activities for nature lovers, whether
solo or with friends or family, awaits.
Sitting on the edge of Towada-Hachimantai National Park is Hachimantai Mountain
Hotel. This accommodation is highly rated by travelers who love its natural environs,
receiving a special award at the Ecotourism Awards jointly held by Japan’s Ministry of
the Environment and the Japan Ecotourism Society. The rustic and cozy hotel features
warm wood paneling and comfortable European-style sofas, creating the atmosphere ofa luxurious mountain cabin. Dinner is a buffet-style selection of seasonal local dishes;
along with Tohoku-grown vegetables, fish, and meat, you can also try the three great
noodles of Morioka, such as Morioka Reimen (cold noodles), Morioka Jajamen (noodles
with a scoop of meat miso), and Wanko soba (buckwheat noodles). Meanwhile, Iwate
Kenpoku Bus offers guided walking and hiking tours that take participants in and aroundthe Hachimantai area in a safe and efficient manner. Tour information is available at hotel
information desks and Iwate Kenpoku Bus’s official website, etc. The Hachimantai Flower
Tour around Kagami Pond at the summit of Mt. Hachimantai, held between spring andsummer, is popular. Knowledgeable guides will help you discover around 30 rare species offlowers in bloom, particularly harder to find varieties.

The hotel is topped with an impressive triangularroof. You can also bathe in the hot springs thattake their water from Matsukawa Onsen

Take a tour with an experienced guide to learn
about the highlights of Hachimantai

Hachimantai Mountain Hotel

Iwate Kenpoku Bus

1-509-1 Matsuoyoriki, Hachimantai-shi,
Iwate

18-88-99 Obuke, Hachimantai-shi, Iwate(Hachimantai sales office)https://hachimantai-mountainhotel.com/en/

Japanese webpage http://www.iwate-kenpokubus.co.jp/

The Dragon Eye is a natural
phenomenon that appears on
Kagami Pond at the summit of
Mt. Hachimantai between late
May and early June each year
View of Kesennuma Bay from Mt. Anba, located north of downtown Kesennuma

6Come to understand the beauty andpower of the ocean at one of Tohoku’s
leading port towns●Kesennuma City, Miyagi
Kesennuma sits along the Pacific coast at the northernmost tip of Miyagi Prefecture
and is known for its incredible views of ria formations. Close to the Sanriku Coast, oneof three largest fishing grounds in the world, the city is also one of Japan’s leading port
towns with a thriving fishing industry. Particularly noted for its swordfish and skipjack
tuna, the port of Kesennuma has the most landings countrywide. Oysters and scallops arealso farmed here. The Kesennuma Fish Market is a great place to learn more about life andculture in Kesennuma. Tours of the bustling morning fish market are available, and guides
offer guidance in English by request.
Kesennuma also suffered immense damage during the Great East Japan Earthquake
in 2011. Traces of the earthquake remain more than a decade later, and local people arestill working hard to rebuild the city. Renovated from a home that once served as a base fordisaster relief volunteers, Tsunakan is a guest house located a stone’s throw from the sea.
Kesennuma not only offers abundant nature and a bounty of seafood, but also rejuvenates
visitors through the powerful spirit of the people and community that call the area home.
Morning Fish Market Walking Tour

Tsunakan

Kesennuma “Umi no Ichi,” 7-13 Uoichibamae,
Kesennuma-shi, Miyagi (meetup location)

81 Shibitachi, Karakuwa-cho,
Kesennuma-shi, Miyagi

Japanese webpage https://kesennuma-kanko.jp/

http://moriyasuisan.com/english/

request2022-fishmarket/

10

You can observe fishermen and market vendors
working hard at the Kesennuma Fish Market

Tsunakan, a guesthouse built in an architectural
style unique to the region11

7

Feel at home during a stay in a historic
residence and tangible cultural property
in a rural village●Nakagawa Town & Ohtawara City, Tochigi
Nakagawa is a small town in Tochigi Prefecture with a population of about 17,000
people and accessible from central Tokyo in approximately 2.5 hours by car. With theclear Naka River, famed for having the largest catches of ayu sweetfish in Japan, flowing
through the town, and surrounded by the Yamizo mountain range and Kitsuregawa Hills,
Nakagawa is rich in natural beauty. The town also offers a variety of delicious cuisine
thanks to the rice, vegetables, buckwheat, and other produce grown in surrounding areas.
Nakagawa is also home to Iizuka-tei, a historical building-turned-hotel registered asa Cultural Property of Japan that is popular among travelers both from within Japanand overseas. The secret to this hotel’s appeal is that it provides a comfortable stay in aluxurious space featuring modern interiors and the latest facilities, while also maintaining
the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese home. Another positive about the hotel is theability to personalize your stay, including enjoying meals catered by local restaurants andbars, visiting local farms to meet the farmers and taste a farm-cooked meal, and otherprograms. In addition, Nakagawa’s neighboring city of Ohtawara is one of the most wellknown places for farm stays in Japan; the area features many farmhouse accommodations
dotted throughout that offer the chance to meet local people and enjoy a stay in the
countryside that will make you feel right at home.

K antoOhtawara Tourism

360 Bato, Nakagawa-machi,
Tochigi

2F, Ohtawara City Sogobunka Kaikan, 1-3-3
Honcho, Ohtawara-shi, Tochigi

https://iizukatei.ohtawaragt.co.jp/en/

Japanese webpage h ttp://www.ohtawaragt.co.jp/

Iizuka-tei, a historical building-turned-hotel in Nakagawa Town

The Kanto region, which includes the capital of Tokyo and the greater Tokyo
area, along with the prefectures of Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama, Gunma,Tochigi, and Ibaraki, is the largest economic zone in Japan and home to onethird of the country’s total population. At the same time, the region is also
home to the Kanto Plain, which is the largest plain in Japan. Travel outside
the urban areas and you will discover Kanto’s tranquil rural landscapes
blessed with abundant water, along with small fishing villages along thecoast. Further, located in the mountainous and hilly areas spreading out
around the plain are the prefectures of Yamanashi and Nagano, which,while easily accessible from Kanto’s urban centers, still retain the traditional
ways of life and culture that allow people to live in harmony with the harshnatural environment of the mountains.

12

Iizuka-tei

Farmhouse accommodations are dotted throughout
Ohtawara City, allowing visitors to enjoy farm activities
and experience life in the country

index.html

Enjoy local flavors with a catered dinner at Iizuka-tei

139

Try shimi, a unique method of naturally
freeze-drying food, at an old folk housethemed around a rural retreat●Chino City, Nagano
Chino is a highland town lying at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains. Deep inthe mountains, the settlement is home to several 100-year-old Japanese houses spread out
across an expanse of rural landscape almost untouched by development. Tucked away inthis hidden village is Yamaura Stay, a complex featuring several farmhouses in the styleof old folk homes that can be rented out in their entirety. The renovation was overseen by
East Asia researcher Alex Kerr. During your stay, you can relax in the farmhouse or takea walk around the historical village. The cool, invigorating mountain air is a reminder thattime spent relaxing here is one of the greatest luxuries there is.
Chino is also known for its traditional way of preparing food called shimi. This
technique involves leaving vegetables and other ingredients, such as tofu and daikon
radish, outside to dry out during the cold winter months, taking advantage of the area’s
freezing winter temperatures and dry climate. Shimi cuisine then incorporates theingredients prepared using this natural method of freeze-drying. Guests at Yamaura Stay
can try making and tasting shimi dishes with a local grandmother. Also on offer is a visit
to a local facility to watch the process of making a regional specialty known as kanten(agar), which takes advantage of the region’s climate and abundant water. You can also try
making kanten yourself.
A stay at an old folk house in a secluded village and the taste of unique local cuisine—
this alternative way of exploring Japan offers something different to the more well-known
tourist spots.

Create and taste shimi dishes made using freezedried ingredients with a grandma from the village

Try making a dish known as tokoroten with boiled
seaweed that has congealed into agar

Yamaura Stay
Not disclosed
https://yamaurastay.jp/en

Learn to make kanten sticks in Japan’s
top agar-producing region
1253 Yugawa, Kitayama, Chino-shi, Nagano

You can choose from a variety of colorful yukata at Miyamoto-ke

8https://chinotabi.jp/en/activity/1388/
Kiyomizu, one of Yamaura Stay’s four farmhouse accommodations in Chino, is a 150-year-old folk house

Stay at a 200-year-old farmhouse,savor a sumo’s favorite dish, andenjoy the taste of freshly picked fruits●Chichibu City, Saitama
Chichibu City has excellent access to Tokyo, taking just 80 minutes on the limited
express train. The area is popular with those seeking to experience nature in each of thefour seasons: vast expanses carpeted in creeping phlox in spring, water activities such as
river rafting in a tributary of the Arakawa River in summer, golden foliage in autumn,
and icicles in winter. The area is also dotted with auspicious temples and shrines, such as
Mitsumine Shrine and Chichibu Shrine, which are among the top spiritual sites in Japan.
The Chichibu Night Festival, held yearly in December, is one of the three largest hikiyama
festivals in Japan* and has been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
While the area is not far from Tokyo, staying overnight is recommended. At the
200-year-old farmhouse Miyamoto-ke, you can try a chanko hotpot* bursting with local
vegetables, including those grown on the Miyamoto family farm. As the head of thefamily is a former sumo wrestler, you are guaranteed a tasty and authentic pot of chanko.
Be sure to enjoy it with some local Japanese sake. The accommodation also has a private
onsen bath. You can also take part in harvesting seasonal fruits and vegetables at a nearby
farm. Why not step out of Tokyo and let yourself unwind?

On the menu for dinner are chanko hotpot andfish grilled over the hearth

The best part of fruit picking is being able to eat
freshly picked, perfectly ripe seasonal fruits*The three largest hikiyama festivals in Japan: Hikiyama are a kind of festival float adorned withdecorations and used in Japanese festivals. The Gion Festival in Kyoto, Takayama Festival in Gifu,
and Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama are said to be the three largest hikiyama festivals in Japan.
*Chanko nabe: Chanko hotpot, known in Japanese as chanko nabe, is a hotpot prepared from scratch
by sumo wrestlers and eaten at sumo stables.

Miyamoto-ke(Reformed historic farmhouse of more than 200 years old)
510 Nagaru, Ogano-machi, Chichibu-gun, Saitama
https://www.miyamotoke.jp/english/

14

Komatsuzawa Leisure Farm
1408 Yokoze, Yokoze-machi, Chichibu-gun, Saitama
Japanese webpage http://www.komatsuzawa.co.jp/

15

10 Enjoy the bountiful seafood and coastal

scenery of the Sea of Japan in a small port
town at the start of the Saba Kaido●Obama City, Fukui
The city of Obama in Fukui Prefecture has long flourished as a Miketsukuni, a term
used for regions that have provided ingredients to the Imperial Court since ancient times.
Abundant seafood and processed foods were transported to Kyoto along a network of roads
known as the Saba Kaido (‘mackerel highway’) to support the former capital’s food culture.
Wakasa Kajitsu is a hotel designed around the concept of kajitsu, or ‘auspicious day,’which offers a delightful stay and gastronomic delights from Obama. Particularly eyecatching is the hotel’s stunning design, which blends traditional and modern Japanese
aesthetics in an exquisite balance. Guest rooms feature ambient lighting and a paletteof calming earth tones, creating unique spaces in each room. Moreover, almost all areasin the hotel provide ocean views, with the vistas at early morning and before dusk being
particularly spectacular. Breakfast and dinner both offer a chance to try cuisine madeonly from locally grown ingredients and with a unique Obama twist. The evening menu
includes silky sesame tofu in a rich and aromatic miso soup and a wide selection of seafood
dishes, such as a regional specialty, Wakasa Guji (red tilefish from Wakasa), and driedmackerel marinated in soy sauce. Enjoy your meal while overlooking the view of Wakasa
Bay stretching out in front of you.
After admiring the beautiful ocean scenery and savoring its many fish varieties, why
not get even closer to the water on a sea kayak? The Ano Paddlers Club offers popular sea
kayaking tours led by local guides. The Ano area faces an inland sea, resulting in calmer
waves. Here, you can enjoy the striking contrast between the lush, verdant mountainside
and the clear ocean waters. During the three-hour course, you will first learn the basics
of how to navigate a sea kayak, then paddle along the coastline to a private beach where
you can try snorkeling and swimming. The tour also takes participants past fish feeding
grounds, so you may come across schools of silver mackerel and pufferfish being fed.
Wakasa Kajitsu
10-4 Ano, Obama-shi, Fukui

Hokuriku

Japanese webpage https://wakasa-kajitsu.com/

Take in the panoramic coastal views from a guestroom at Wakasa Kajitsu

The Hokuriku region, close to the center of Japan’s main island of Honshu,
includes the prefectures of Niigata, Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui, which lie
in a row along the coast of the Sea of Japan. This region is supported bymany thriving primary industries, such as fishing in the Sea of Japan andrice cultivation on the plains, and remains popular thanks to its rich foodculture. The mountainous areas of Niigata Prefecture receive some of theheaviest snowfalls in Japan, offering a plethora of activities that can only beenjoyed in this so-called “snow country.” The Hokuriku region is also hometo the World Heritage Site-designated settlement of Gassho-style homes at
Gokayama Village, along with Noto’s Satoyama and Satoumi, which havebeen registered as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems. At
both these sites, you can experience a traditional Japanese way of life.

16

Mackerel sushi made with mackerel marinated in vinegar

Ano Paddlers Club
9-4 Ano, Obama-shi, Fukui
Japanese webpage https://obama-apc.com

Try sea kayaking and enjoy the scenery along the coastline accompanied by a guide17

11 Build a kamakura snow dome, a one-of-a-kindexperience in “Snow Country,” and enjoy ricein one of Japan’s best rice-producing regions●Joetsu City, Niigata
Niigata Prefecture is one of Japan’s best producers of rice, which is a staple of Japanesecuisine. In the southwestern part of the prefecture is Joetsu City, a thriving rice-growing
region. Facing the Sea of Japan and surrounded by mountainous terrain, the city is blessedwith fresh produce from both the mountains and the sea. Inland, the city is also known
as having some of the heaviest snowfall in Japan. A special thing about this area is thatrice and other crops receive an abundance of water from melting snow, which makes fordelicious local sake that can be enjoyed together with local cuisine made from seasonal
ingredients.
YUKISATO Lodge was created from the idea of wanting to give guests the chance toexperience the wonder of snow. The lodge, built by renovating a traditional Japanese-style
house, can be rented out in its entirety. Surrounded by expansive forests and fields, guests
can take part in activities perfect for places with deep snow, such as building a kamakura,a Japanese-style igloo made by packing snow tightly to form a dome shape then digging
out the center so that people can enter the inside, along with snowmobile tours across vast
fields. There are also a variety of activities that offer a glimpse into life in the countryside,
such as farming experiences.
YUKISATO LODGE

You can enjoy mountain biking and trekking when
the ground turns green ©YUKISATO

Build a Kamakura1073 Okazawa, Nakago-ku, Joetsu-shi, Niigata
https://yuki-sato.jp/lodge/*This site is available in both Japanese and English

A bedroom at YUKISATO Lodge. The thick wooden
beams are striking ©YUKISATO

1073 Okazawa, Nakago-ku, Joetsu-shi, Niigata
https://yuki-sato.jp/lodge/activities-services/kamakura/*This site is available in both Japanese and English

Relax inside a kamakura snow dome. This unique experience is only possible in areas with heavy snowfall

The Suganuma settlement in Gokayama of Gassho-style houses has been designated a World Heritage Site

12 Experience life as it was lived in the past

in a traditional Gassho-style home

●Nanto City, Toyama
Nanto City, nestled between the mountains of western Toyama Prefecture, is known
for the UNESCO World Heritage list registered settlement of Gassho-style houses at
Gokayama Village. Gassho is a traditional Japanese architectural style that is cleverly
adapted to the harsh climate and natural features of this mountainous region, which
receives heavy snowfall in winter. It is characterized by its steeply sloping thatched roofs
that allow snow to easily slide off. While Gassho-style houses are scarce, even across Japan,
a cluster of them have been preserved in the Gokayama area. People even continue to callthem home.
Next to the World Heritage settlement is Gokayama Gassho no Sato, a unique facility
where visitors can stay in a Gassho-style home. While here, you can take an in-depth
look at the architecture and learn about the traditional way of life that accompanies it.
Also available are optional activities such as enjoying local cuisine and folk music. Whensnow settles on the ground, there are trekking tours where participants can explore thesurrounding area on foot wearing traditional snowshoes, known as kanjiki. These help
the wearer to walk over snow without sinking in. Experience the local food, culture, andagricultural traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation whileobserving the area’s hidden natural beauty.
Gokayama Gassho no Sato855 Suganuma, Nanto-shi, Toyama
https://www.gokayama.jp/en/

18

The houses at Gokayama Gassho no Sato still use
open hearths, known in Japanese as irori

During the Kanjiki Trekking Tour, you can explore
the surrounding area on foot for two to threehours

Kanjiki Trekking Tour855 Suganuma, Nanto-shi, Toyama
https://www.gokayama.jp/en/ (related site)19

13 Experience the culture of washi paper

and ayu sweetfish cuisine in Mino, a city
cultivated by abundant sources of water●Mino City, Gifu
Situated in central Gifu and blessed with the clear flowing waters of the Nagara and
Itadori rivers, Mino City has been well-known for washi papermaking since ancient times.
Mino washi, whose traditional papermaking techniques have been passed on for over
1,300 years, was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014, taking its
position as an important traditional craft in Japan. The area lined with splendid buildingsthat local merchants fought with one another to build is known as the Udatsu WallHistorical District. It still retains an atmosphere imbued with the abundant prosperity
from those days.
NIPPONIA Mino Merchant Town Hotel is recommended for overnight stays. The
hotel was built out of a 100-year-old residence formerly owned by a wealthy merchant,
and its facilities, renovated using traditional Japanese wood joinery techniques, give off apleasant woody fragrance.
A 15-minute or so drive from the center of Mino City takes you to the Warabee Land
workshop, where you can try making Mino washi paper from scratch. Here, participants
make their own unique washi paper under the guidance of a craftsperson by scooping
up the paper material with a special bamboo mold for papermaking called a sugeta, thenadding color with dried flowers and pigments.
In summer, the Nagara River, one of the clearest rivers in Japan, heralds in the seasonof ayu sweetfish. Ayu is a quintessential part of summer in Mino, and at Mino Kanko Yana,a long-established restaurant located along the river, you can savor dishes made from fresh
ayu swimming in a tank within the restaurant. The restaurant’s popular ayu full-course set
includes several dishes incorporating ayu prepared in different ways, such as marinated invinegar, prepared as sashimi, grilled with salt, and deep fried.
NIPPONIA Mino Merchant Town
1912-1 Motozumicho, Mino-shi, Gifu
Japanese webpage https://nipponia-mino.jp/

Mino Kanko Yana

T okai

Warabee Land

Japanese webpage http://minokanko-yana.jp/

Japanese webpage h ttps://warabeeland.com/

726 Warabi, Mino-shi, Gifu

Create your own washi paper under the guidance of a craftsperson

Aichi, Gifu, Shizuoka, and Mie prefectures—collectively referred to as theTokai area—sit almost at the center of the Japanese archipelago. Gently
undulating plateaus extend inland, while mandarin oranges and tea
plantations thrive along the plains of the Pacific coast, taking advantageof the area’s mild climate. At two of the largest rivers in Japan, the Nagara
River in Gifu and Kiso River in Aichi, traditional river fishing techniques arestill being employed, and visitors can observe and try out this masterful art.
The Tokai area also turned out many of Japan’s leading figures from thefeudal period, not least Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582, from Aichi Prefecture),a powerful daimyo who worked to unify Japan. With its castles, old temples
and shrines, traditional merchant houses, townhouses, and other historicsites remaining here and there across the region, Tokai is a great place toexperience Japan’s history and traditional culture.

20

15-1 Maeno, Mino-shi, Gifu
(only open between April and October)

Grilled ayu sweetfish served at Mino
Kanko Yana, the classic way to try ayu

At NIPPONIA Mino Merchant Town Hotel, washi paper is not only used as wallpaper, door screens,and lampshades, but is also woven into soft fabric for pillowcases using a special technique21

15 Chat with active ama divers,and enjoy local seafood dishes and hot springs●Toba City, Mie
Toba City is found in the southeastern part of Mie Prefecture, located on the Shima
Peninsula separating Ise Bay from the Pacific Ocean. The entire city has been designatedpart of the Ise-Shima National Park, whose beautiful waters are a source of pride as one of
the world’s first places to be successful in producing cultured pearls. The area’s topographyof a ria coastline with complex inlets encourages a rich ecosystem to thrive, and here
female free divers catch abalone, turban shells, and other seafood. This practice, known as
ama diving, is a local cultural tradition that has been passed down over the generations;some say it goes back as far as three to five millennia. At the Ama Hut, you can chat withactive ama divers while enjoying freshly caught seafood.
A variety of seafood lands at Toba Port in addition to the abalone and turban shells
caught by ama divers, most notably the Ise-ebi spiny lobster. Each inn in the area proudly
serves these local delicacies from the sea. There are also accommodations where you cansoak in hot spring water reputed to give bathers beautiful skin.
Another must-visit place is the Shinmei Shrine, where local ama divers have long
visited to pray for safety and bountiful catches. Also called “Ishigami-san,” the shrine is
known as a spiritual spot that grants women one wish.
Ama Hut Experience Osatsu-kamado
Osatsu Fishing Port, Osatsu-cho,
Toba-shi, Mie
https://osatsu.org/en/

One of the highlights is getting to try the freshlycaught seafood

Soak in the hot spring water of Shaguji Onsen,
which is gentle on the skin

Hana-no-koyado Ju-bei
1395 Osatsu-cho, Toba-shi, Mie
https://www.ju-bei.com/*This site is available in both Japanese and English
You can meet active ama divers and listen to their stories

Yana fishing, where waiting for fish to appear from atop a bamboo fishing weir (yana) is part of the fun

14 Enjoy the summer tradition of catching ayu

sweetfish from a fishing weir and taste wild
game meat in a secluded hot spring area

●Inabu, Toyota City, Aichi
The Inabu district in the northeastern part of Toyota City is full of natural beauty, with
Tenryu-Okumikawa Quasi-National Park spreading out to the east, and Aichi-Kogen
Quasi-National Park extending out to the west. Within the former is the virgin forest of
Mennoki, home to dense thickets of large beech and maple trees. The forest also features
a popular forest trail offering spectacular views across the seasons, such as fresh greenery,
autumn foliage, and barren branches covered in rime ice. As a way of making nature
exploration in Inabu even more enjoyable, a framework has been put in place for visitors to
explore the area’s mountains and rivers while learning skills and knowledge from the past,with the entire district considered part of a “stay-and-experience facility.” The base for thisis the hands-on workshop Donguri Kobo at Roadside Station “Michi-no-Eki” Dongurino-Sato Inabu. Popular activities include a mountain biking tour around forest trails andculinary experiences that offer the chance to taste local dishes. You can also try catchingfish by hand on the Yahagi River using a type of fishing weir called a yana*, which havebeen handmade by local residents. Another place to visit in Inabu is Natsuyake Onsen, a
hot spring surrounded by a river and mountains. At the hot spring inn Seiryu-tei, you cansavor unique dishes full of rustic flavors, such as shishi nabe, a hot pot made with wild boar
meat, river-caught fish sashimi, and salt-grilled ayu sweetfish.

A guest room at Seiryu-tei, an inn where you canenjoy hot spring water flowing from Okumikawa
and delicacies from the mountains and river

Catching fish with your hands is so simple thateven children are sure to have a blast*Yana: A device with a platform made from bamboo or wood that traps fish by stemming the flowof the river.

Seiryu-tei (Natsuyake Onsen)
45 Koizawa, Inabu-cho, Toyota-shi, Aichi
Japanese webpage https://seiryu-tei.com/

22

Oiden Yana Fishing Weir
Onose-cho, Toyota-shi, Aichi
Japanese webpage https://oonose.com/

23

16 A forest in Kyoto where the quaint atmosphereof a traditional farm village is preserved
Enjoy local delicacies in a Japanese satoyama
mountain village lined with thatched-roof
houses●Miyama Town, Kyoto
Miyama is a mountain town located at the center of Kyoto Prefecture. The town has
been designated a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional
Buildings due to the preservation of its thatched-roof buildings and the passing downof older Japanese customs. Moreover, in 2021, the United Nations World Tourism
Organization (UNWTO) certified the town as a Best Tourism Village where visitors can
get up close with the food culture and lifestyle of a traditional farming village. Formerly apharmacy selling Western medicines, the thatched-roof restaurant and inn KIGUSURIYA
comprises a spacious main building and a 140-year-old annex that can accommodate only
one group per day. One of the most memorable experiences here is trying a nabe hotpot
meal cooked over a traditional Japanese charcoal-fired sunken hearth. These hearths wereonce commonly used for heating and cooking in rural parts of Japan, but are incrediblyrare today. Enjoy your meal around the hearth for a precious experience that will bring you
in contact with Japan’s history. The nabe hotpot includes organic vegetables grown on theproperty, along with Kyo jidori, a local breed of Kyoto chicken that is less fatty and has achewier texture. Each mouthful is packed with delicious local flavors.
In Miyama Town, visitors can also participate in one-hour guided tours that introduce
the thatched-roof houses and lifestyles of local people, bringing their existence to amodern audience. These one-hour guided walking tours of Kayabuki no Sato are available
in the morning or afternoon. During the tour, you can visit the Miyama Folklore Museum
and learn in detail about the techniques used for thatching, which are registered as a
UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage, as well as see how the buildings are built
inside, including the roof space, sunken hearth, and more.

North of Miyama is Kayabuki no Sato, where 39 thatched-roof houses still exist today

KIGUSURIYA

Kyoto Miyama Tourism Association

8-1 Imayasu, Tsurugaoka, Miyama-cho,Nantan-shi, Kyoto

23 Agake Shimo, Miyama-cho,Nantan-shi, Kyoto

http://www.kigusuriya.com/en/https://miyamanavi.com/en/

K ansai

The Kansai region sits at the heart of Japan’s main island of Honshu. Formedof five prefectures that include Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, and Wakayama,
the region has played a central role in Japan’s history. Nara was the country’s
first capital, before the seat of power shifted to Kyoto in 794,; consequently,
various aspects of Japan’s history, traditions, and culture spread to the restof the country from this region. While most historical sites are concentrated
in more central areas, a large part of Kansai’s charm is its many tranquil
natural landscapes waiting to be enjoyed just a short distance away fromthe city. The northern part of the region overlooks the Sea of Japan, while
the southern part borders the Pacific Ocean; these varied climates havegiven rise to a rich and diverse food culture.

24

Nabe hotpot at KIGUSURIYA made withvegetables grown on-site and local chicken

You can hear details about the structure of thatched-roof houses from a guide25

17 Energize your body and mind

in a nature-rich town with a deeply rooted
medicinal herb culture●Uda City, Nara

Uda City is a castle town in the eastern part of Nara Prefecture that has been selected
as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Blessed with anabundance of nature, Uda also flourished as a town of medicinal herbs for many centuries,
as evidenced by an entry in the Nihon Shoki * that mentions that Japan’s first kusurigari(“medicine hunting”)* event took place here.
Yatakiya is a hotel in Uda that has been renovated from a 300-year-old traditional
Japanese house. Staff at Yatakiya certified in health tourism encourage guests to use theirtrip as an opportunity to maintain healthy practices and enrich their lives. Guests can also
take part in guided walking tours to nearby cultural properties and enjoy dishes madefrom locally grown vegetables at the on-site restaurant. Even the bath salts provided ineach guest bathroom are made at Yatakiya. They contain a compound of Yamato Toki
(Angelica acutiloba), a medicinal herb said to relieve fatigue and improve circulation.
Morino Medicinal Herb Garden is another must-see in Uda. You can find about
250 varieties of seasonal medicinal herbs and flowers growing at this approximately
600-square-meter medicinal herb garden, including some that are seldom seen elsewhere.
The walking paths in the garden are well-maintained for ease of accessibility. This an ideal
place for a walk in nature to soothe your body and mind.

See a beautiful thatched roof building up close

Lunch at Yatakiya is prepared with plenty ofvegetables, many of which are grown on thepremises*Nihon Shoki: Written around 702 CE, the Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan) is the oldest official
chronicle of Japanese history*Kusurigari: An event held by the Imperial Court in May 611 to collect fawn antlers and medicinal
herbs for use in herbal medicines

Yatakiya1835 Haibarayataki, Uda-shi, Nara
Japanese webpage https://yatakiya.jp/

Morino Medicinal Herb Garden
1880 Oudakamishin, Uda-shi, Nara
https://enntourism.com/spots/morino-medicinal-herb-garden/ (related site)
Pretty Asian fawn lilies, a type of medicinal herb that symbolizes spring

The evening menu at NIPPONIA Fukusumi Post Town Hotel features dishes packed with ingredients produced in Tamba

18 Go on a food tour of marine

and mountain delicacies that flourish
in the climate of the Tamba Basin●Tambasasayama City, Hyogo
Tambasasayama City in Hyogo Prefecture was once a thriving a castle town. Backthen, the city’s Fukusumi district, a 20-minute or so drive from the former castle town
area, served as a busy post town* on the route to Kyoto. A rare example of a post towncum-farming settlement, even in Japan, the townscape has been selected as an Important
Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Japan. Nestled in the heartof this district is the NIPPONIA Fukusumi Post Town Hotel, an accommodation thatwas built by renovating a 100-year-old mansion. The hotel’s appeal lies in its relaxing
interior, which has been completely updated to boost guests’ comfort while still retaining
the building’s original character, along with its innovative cuisine that makes generous useof ingredients from the mountains and rivers of the former Tamba Province (present-day
Hyogo Prefecture).
Thanks to the climate and fertile soil unique to the basin, a variety of agricultural
produce can be grown here with exceptional levels of quality. Tambasasayama City isparticularly known for its Tamba chestnuts and black soybeans. The local practice ofcultivating black soybeans has been recognized as part of Japan’s industrial heritage.
During a trip to this well-known food paradise, many people buy Tanbaji Purin to takehome as a souvenir. These jars are packed with some of the best ingredients from Tamba.
Especially popular is the Kuromame Purin, a two-layered dessert of flan topped with ajelly filled with gently simmered large black soybeans grown in Tambasasayama.
*Post town: A town that developed around its roadside inns, mainly built during the Edo period(1603–1868).

This hotel in the post town was renovated from aformer merchant’s residence

Three varieties of Tanbaji Purin are available,
including black bean, white azuki bean, andcustardNIPPONIA Fukusumi Post Town Hotel
378 Fukusumi, Tambasasayama-shi,
Hyogo
https://www.vmg.co.jp/en/hotels/fukusumi/

Tanbaji Purin
397 Hioki, Tambasasayama-shi, Hyogo
Japanese webpage https://www.tanbaji-purin.com/

26

27

19 Visit a settlement where people live inharmony with nature deep in the mountainsof Shikoku’s secluded Iya region●Miyoshi City, Tokushima
Miyoshi City sits roughly at the center of the Shikoku region and is surrounded byrugged wilderness on all sides. Here you can find Mt. Tsurugi, the second highest mountainin western Japan at 1,955 meters above sea level, along with the majestic Yoshino River.
At the northern part of the city is the area of Ikeda-cho. It was here that traders
once used the Yoshino River as a means for transporting goods, and even today, thestreets are lined with traditional merchant houses built between one to two centuries ago.
Meanwhile, the sharp, mountainous area to the south features many spectacular valleys,
including the gorges of Oboke and Koboke, which were carved out by the rapid currentsof the Yoshino River, and the Iya Valley, which is crossed by traditional suspension bridges.
Blocked off by steep mountains, the Iya region is sometimes referred to as an “unexplored
region,” and legend has it that the Heike, a samurai clan of great power and influence,
fled here in defeat after a political tussle in the 12th century. The people of the Iya region
have come to live in close harmony with the natural world, building settlements on
steep slopes and cultivating crops using methods adapted to the sloping land. You canexperience this unique way of life at Tougenkyo-iya, which offers accommodations inrenovated traditional mountain village homes. If you make a reservation, you can enjoy
local delicacies prepared by the villagers, such as grilled red-spotted masu salmon (amago)and skewered goshi imo potatoes.

The village of Ochiai in the Iya region of Tokushima Prefecture, which was designatedan Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings

Tougenkyo-iya

Iya-no-Kazurabashi Vine Bridge

403 Higashiiyaochiai,
Miyoshi-shi, Tokushima

162-2 Zentoku, Nishiiyayamamura,Miyoshi-shi, Tokushima

https://www.tougenkyo-iya.jp/

https://miyoshi-tourism.jp/en/spot/iyanokazurabashi/

C hugoku /S hikoku
Both the Chugoku region in the western part of Honshu, Japan’s main island, and the
Shikoku region to the south have beautiful mountain ranges that appear to circle
the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea. The Chugoku region is steeped in Japanese

history—on one hand, the prefectures of Tottori and Shimane preserve some of the most important legends in Japan’s mythology,
while on the other, Yamaguchi Prefecture was the hometown of leading figures in the country’s path to modernization during
the Meiji Restoration (1868). Bordering the Seto Inland Sea are Hiroshima Prefecture, home to the two World Heritage sites of
Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome), and Okayama Prefecture,
where you can find the elegant white walled buildings of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Meanwhile, the Shikoku
region, which is separated from Honshu by the Seto Inland Sea, is formed of the four prefectures of Kagawa, Ehime, Tokushima,
and Kochi. Shikoku has a unique pilgrimage culture, with pilgrims who travel to worship at each of the many temples scattered28

across the region referred to as ohenro-san.

Visit a sloping millet plantation and pick tea under
the guidance of local residents

Traditional dishes are specially prepared for you at Tougenkyo-iya

2921 Encounter scenes of steel production andterraced rice paddies in a village tucked away
between mountains from Japanese mythology●Okuizumo Town, Shimane
Okuizumo Town lies at the southeastern tip of Shimane Prefecture and borders
Tottori and Hiroshima prefectures at the edge of the Chugoku Mountains. This historical
The living room with wood-burning stove. There
area is considered as the birthplace of Japanese mythology and site of Susanoo-nois also a Japanese-style room with tatami flooringat the rear
Mikoto’s* mythical descent to earth; consequently, you can find many spiritual spots inthe area associated with the legend. In the past, the town was also an excavation site forhigh-quality iron sand, leading to a boom in iron manufacturing using the traditional
tatara ironmaking process. Mountain slopes cut away to get at the iron sand were laterleveled to use in growing buckwheat. Yokota kosoba, the rare, aromatic variety of indigenous
buckwheat grown on these slopes, is known as “phantom soba (buckwheat noodles)”: anoodle that can only be eaten in and around Okuizumo. The slopes, along with water
channels carved into the mountainside for mining, have also been transformed into
terraced rice paddies that reflect the beautiful natural scenery. This unique use of theland for agriculture has been recognized as a Japanese Nationally Important Agricultural
Heritage System. Nita rice, the name of the rice grown in these terraced rice paddies, isForging a knife by heating then repeatedly striking
ironregarded as one of the foremost varieties in western Japan for its delicious taste.
You can learn more about the region by participating in hands-on activities, including
knife-making under the guidance of a master craftsman from a blacksmiths spanning several generations, and soba-making taught by a farmer.
Stay at Miinohara Garden, a log house tucked away in the highlands, and enjoy a relaxing stay while discovering nature and getting to know
the local people.
*Susanoo-no-Mikoto: A deity that appears in Japanese mythology. Legend says that Susanoo-no-Mikoto fought against Yamata-no-Orochi, an eight-headed
and eight-tailed serpent, to save a princessHÏSOM has transformed its interiors into cozy spaces while retaining the atmosphere of an old kominka residence

20 Observe the atmosphere of a hot spring resort

town that takes visitors back in time andtraditional dances passed down for generations

Miinohara Garden
2915-2 Yakawa, Okuizumo-cho, Nita-gun, Shimane
Japanese webpage https://okuizumo.org/jp/guide/detail/2134/(related site)

Knife-Making Experience
Unshu Chuzen Hamono, 712-7 Minari, Okuizumo-cho, Nita-gun, Shimane
Japanese webpage http://okuizumo.org/jp/plantour/detail/1315/(related site)

The scenic landscape of terraced rice paddies built on excavated mountains●Yunotsu Town, Shimane
Yunotsu in Shimane Prefecture is a port town facing the Sea of Japan known for its
hot springs and pottery. The Yunotsu Onsen hot spring facilities at the center of town
A bedroom at HÏSOM, decorated in a Nordic style
are part of the cultural assets of the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, which was certified aswhile preserving a Japanese aesthetic
a World Heritage Site in 2007. For your stay, we recommend HÏSOM, a villa available
to book for private stays of one group at a time. Built from a former residence in thesmall village of Hiso, HÏSOM has been renovated into a cozy and warm accommodation
incorporating the Nordic concept of using natural and recycled materials in the homewhile still preserving the unique features of Japanese homes where possible. The two
spacious and comfortable bedrooms include European-style beds and desks for reading.
In the back garden overlooked by the kitchen are a charcoal grill, folding table, and chairs
for guests to enjoy a private barbecue outside. Extra futon beds can be added in order toaccommodate up to 10 people in each room.
A memorable event in Yunotsu is yokagura, traditional Shinto dances performed every
Saturday from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the dendo hall at Tatsu no Gozen Shrine (reservation
Yokagura, performed every Saturday on the stage
required). Originally a ritual involving tales about gods and demons set to high-tempo
at Tatsu no Gozen Shrine (image provided by the
Yunotsu Onsen Ryokan Association )music and dramatic dances, kagura has evolved into a form of folk entertainment that still
exists today. Though the actual practice of kagura has largely dwindled across Japan, here
in Yunotsu, local residents take pride in this tradition that has been passed down for hundreds of years, with some residents learning the dancesfrom an early age. Particularly impressive are the elaborate masks worn by the performers. Made of Japanese washi paper and handmade
lacquer by local artisans, these masks play an important role in kagura, bringing the performances to life.
HÏSOM
588-1 Yunotsu I, Yunotsu-cho, Oda-shi, Shimane
Japanese webpage https://hisom.jp/

30

Tatsu no Gozen Shrine
736 Yunotsu I, Yunotsu-cho, Oda-shi, Shimane
Japanese webpage h ttps://yunotsu-meguri.jp/introdecu/yokagura/31

22 Learn crafts through factory tours andwashi papermaking in an area that hasprotected its traditional crafts, such as
kurume kasuri textiles●Yame City, Fukuoka
Yame City is a place rich in nature in the southern part of Fukuoka Prefecture,surrounded by the clear waters of the Yabe River that flow into the Ariake Sea, alongwith several mountain ranges. The city has a thriving agriculture industry, producing rice,wheat, a variety of fruits, and Yame tea, which is renowned for its superb quality. The
region has long been a center for traditional craft making, such as handmade washi paperand chochin paper lanterns*, Buddhist altars, bamboo crafts, and Kurume Kasuri cloth*,and the craft making techniques are still being passed down today. Craft Inn 手[té] is anaccommodation that places Yame’s traditional craftsmanship at front and center. Guest
rooms are decorated with furnishings showcasing the brilliance of local handmade crafts,
with each room designed around the different themes of bamboo, washi paper, and thecolor indigo. The inn also organizes a selection of hands-on craft tours, along with a tour
to a kurume kasuri textile making factory and walking tours around workshops in the town.
Once you see for yourself the work that goes into these traditional crafts, you will come torealize the true depth of their artistry.
At the heart of the city is the Fukushima district, a picturesque townscape characterized
by elegant, white walled buildings. This area flourished as a merchant district from the1700s to the 1950s, and in 2002, it was selected as an Important Preservation District forGroups of Traditional Buildings in Japan. Historical buildings (townhouses) constructed in
the stately dozo-zukuri * style sit along the old highway, retaining the atmosphere of the past.
*Chochin: A lantern created by covering a frame made from thinly split bamboo with washi paperor similar, then placing a candle inside. Nowadays, lightbulbs are typically used instead of candles.
*Kurume kasuri cloth: Cotton textiles developed in the Chikugo region of Fukuoka Prefecture inaround 1800, dyed using the ikat technique.
*Dozo-zukuri: A traditional Japanese architectural style characterized by tiled roofs and clay walls
covering the exteriors of inner walls, eaves, and other wooden elements to create a fire-resistant
structure. In the Fukushima district of Yame City, these elements are finished with plaster (thepractice is called igura-zukuri locally).

Craft Inn 手[té]Shimogawa Orimono

https://craftinn.jp/enhttps://oriyasan.com/en/

120-1 Motomachi, Yame-shi, Fukuoka

K yushu /O kinawa

Around 150 historical buildings line the streets of Fukushima district in Yame City

From its position at the southwestern part of the Japanese archipelago,
Kyushu has been actively involved in trade with other Asian countries sinceancient times. Blessed with a mild climate and plentiful nature, the region
is host to a wide range of agricultural practices, including fishing, forestry, and crop and livestock farming. The
chain of islands stretching from Tanegashima in Kagoshima Prefecture to Okinawa, collectively referred to as
the Nansei Islands, has a warm and humid subtropical climate that supports a diverse variety of ecosystems.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, the northern part of Okinawa Main Island, and Iriomote Island inparticular were listed as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site in 2021. The region’s stunning blue sea and large
coral reefs are a sight you will never forget.

32

A room at Craft Inn 手[té] designedwith the theme of washi paper

1111-2 Tsunoe, Yame-shi, Fukuoka

We recommend touring the Shimogawa Orimono factory and making a kurume kasuri scarf

33

23 Encounter a rich ecosystem andmagnificent scenery
The island’s unique traditions andcultures will leave an imprint on your heart●Amami City, Kagoshima
Amami-Oshima Island sits between Kagoshima on the mainland of Japan andOkinawa Main Island. Millions of years ago, the island was connected to the mainlandand Eurasian continent. As it underwent a transformation into the cluster of islands that
it is today, certain plants and animals that went extinct on the mainland managed tosurvive on the island, a haven for rare endemic species such as the Amami rabbit*. AmamiOshima Island features pristine, untouched nature, such as blue seas colored by coral andthe second-largest mangrove forest in Japan, which was registered as a Natural World
Heritage site in 2021. As a melting pot of different cultures, including continental culture
from China, native Japanese (Yamato) culture from Kagoshima, and native Okinawan(Ryukyu) culture from the islands, Amami-Oshima Island has developed its own distinct
island culture that can been clearly seen from its oshima tsumugi textiles*, shima uta island
folk songs, and brown sugar shochu (spirits made from unrefined sugar cane).
In the northern part of Amami-Oshima Island is the DenPaku resort, which offers
three different styles of accommodation to make you feel like an islander including luxury
villas, traditional folk houses, and hotel-style accommodation. DenPaku can also arrange
ocean activities for guests, as well as excursions that offer the opportunity to experience
local culture, such as the Hachigatsu Odori dance* and the game of nanko-asobi*. Interact
with local people to learn more about the nature and culture in Amami.
*Amami rabbit: An endangered species of rabbit endemic to Japan and found only on Amami
Oshima and Tokunoshima islands.
*Oshima tsumugi textile: A silk textile unique to Amami-Oshima Island that is dyed with juices
extracted from simmering sharinbai (Rhaphiolepis umbellata), a plant native to the island, and mud,then woven by hand. In Japan, it is considered one of the great three textiles in the world alongside
Gobelins tapestries from France and Persian carpets from Iran.
*Hachigatsu Odori dance: Lit. “Dance of the Eight Month.” A folk dance performed every year in
September (the eighth month of the old lunar calendar) to pray for successful harvests*Nanko-asobi: A traditional drinking game from the Amami area

Nanko-asobi, a game where players have to guess
the number of sticks (nanko-dama) the otherperson is hiding in their hand

Explore a mangrove forest by canoe with a local
guide

DenPaku The Beachfront MIJORA
986-1 Kamesaki, Sotoganeku, Kasari-cho,
Amami-shi, Kagoshima
Japanese webpage h ttps://den-paku.com/the-beachfront-mijora/

Slow Guide Amami
Wadatsumikan, 555-13 Surigachi,
Sumiyo-cho, Amami-shi, Kagoshima
https://www.amami-guide.com/en/“Shower climbing,” a popular activity within the Natural World Heritage site

The sea, a special shade of “Amami blue,” stretches out before you at DenPaku The Beachfront MIJORA

24 Witness the dynamism of naturein Higashi Village, part of a Natural
World Heritage site

●Higashi Village, Okinawa
At the north of Okinawa Main Island is Higashi Village, an area of outstanding natural
beauty covered with forest over 72 percent of its area and traversed by as many as 14 rivers.
The Yanbaru area across north Okinawa Main Island is a vast expanse of mountains andwilderness and home to a huge variety of animals and plants that have evolved in uniqueways. The area was registered as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site due to its
importance as a natural habitat. This area is also notable for the Gesashi Bay mangrove forest,
where you will find mangrove trees (hirugi in Japanese) designated a Natural Monument ofJapan, as well as other beautiful mangrove colonies that grow in the wetlands near the sea.
A recommended activity in this area includes canoeing through the mangrove forest and“shower climbing” in a natural canyon. You first trek along the river by canoe, then aim forthe river source while walking through jungle-like areas, swimming in natural pools, andjumping into rivers. During this popular tour, you can enjoy the nature at a Natural World
Heritage site in a more physically active way. After getting your fill of this dynamic naturalenvironment, spend some time in quiet self-reflection at a peaceful guest house.

A warm and welcoming room in a traditional folk
house that staff members renovated by handShower Climbing Tour

Yanbaru no Yado Yui

334 Kawata, Higashi-son, Okinawa(meetup location: Fukujigawa Seaside Park)

Japanese webpage https://yaaninjuyui35.wixsite.com/family/yanbaru-stayJapanese webpage https://higashi-kanko.jp/hikyo/index.html

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The clear water feels great and will rejuvenate
your body and mind

111 Gesashi, Higashi-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa

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Published and edited by JTB Publishing, Inc.
*The information contained in this publication is current as of January 1, 2023.
*Any unauthorized reproduction or use of the contents, text, images, or any other part of this publication is strictly prohibited.