Walking among these old houses, you really get to see the beauty of traditional Japan. This place is thoughtfully designed.

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Saiko 'Iyashi no sato NENBA'
Traditional Japanese Scenery, Thatched Roofs and Mt. Fuji
The Nenba area, once home to rows of thatched-roof buildings, is located along the shore of Lake Saiko, overlooking Mt. Fuji and Aokigahara Forest. However, there was terrible damage from the typhoon of 1966, which destroyed most of the town.
“Saiyo ‘Iyashi no Sato NENBA’” was opened in 2006 in an attempt to restore the thatched roof village, part of Japan’s traditional scenery.
Around 20 thatched-roof houses have been restored, recreating the old rural and peaceful landscape.
Each of the buildings is home to something like a restaurant, souvenir shop, hands-on experience class, and more, where you can enjoy activities while looking out over Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
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Area with 20 restored thatched-roof houses.
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View of Mt. Fuji and Japan’s beautiful traditional seasonal scenery.
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Experience craft-making and wearing kimonos (reservations required in advance).
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Weeping cherry trees are in season from mid-April through early May.
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Autumn leaves are at their best typically from late October through mid-November.
Photos
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Entrance
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View from Fujimi Bridge
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From late February through early April of each year, hina dolls are put on display at “Kutsurogi-ya.”
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Mt. Fuji and nostalgic old-time scenery
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Springtime cherry blossoms
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Snowy scene
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are there any pamphlets or signs in foreign languages available? (Please specify the languages if any)
Pamphlets: English & Chinese / Signs: Mainly in English
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Is there any free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, there is. Saiko-free
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Are there any coin lockers available?
No, but we provide free luggage storage at the General Information Office (③).
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Are there any restrooms nearby?
Yes, there's one near the parking lot and several others throughout the village.
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Can pets enter the premises?
While pets can accompany visitors for a stroll around the village, they are not allowed inside the buildings.
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Is there a smoking area?
The entire village is a smoke-free zone. Smoking is only permitted in a designated area located near the reception.
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Can I use a drone?
The use of drones or remote control devices is prohibited within the village.
Reviews
If the original text is in another language, the AI will automatically translate and display it.
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This place is absolutely beautiful—it's like a hidden paradise. No matter the season, you get a different experience every time.
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I've visited Shirakawa-go before, and while Saiko Iyashi no sato NENBA is much smaller, it's way less crowded and much more peaceful. You can really enjoy the rustic, quiet atmosphere, and the stunning view of Mt. Fuji is just breathtaking—it's like being in a fairy tale.
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 西湖いやしの里根場
- Postal Code
- 401-0332
- Address
- 2710 Saikonenba, Fujikawaguchikomachi, Minamitsurugun, Yamanashi
- Telephone
- 0555-20-4677
- Closed
- No holidays (temporary closures may occur)
- Hours
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March to November: 9:00am - 5:00pm
December to February: 9:30am - 4:30pm - Admission
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Adults (high school students and older) 500 yen, children (elementary and junior high school students) 250 yen
※Separate fees for experiences and other activities - Access
- About 40 minutes by retro-bus from the Fujikyu Line’s Kawaguchiko Station
- Credit Cards
- Accepted (Varies by store)
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)