Miyama Kayabukinosato – Kyoto’s Thatched-Roof Village
Overview: Step Back in Time in Rural Kyoto
Miyama Kayabukinosato (美山かやぶきの里) is a picturesque village in the mountains of northern Kyoto, renowned for its collection of over 30 traditional thatched-roof (kayabuki) farmhouses. The village offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s rural past, with beautifully preserved architecture, tranquil countryside scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can stroll the lanes, visit folk museums, and experience the charm of a living heritage site. For more ideas on what to see nearby, check out the "Find Recommended Sightseeing Spots Near Miyama Kayabukinosato" section below!
History and Cultural Significance
Miyama Kayabukinosato preserves a way of life that has all but disappeared elsewhere in Japan. The thatched-roof houses, some over 200 years old, are still inhabited and maintained by local residents. The village is recognized as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and its landscape changes beautifully with the seasons—lush green in summer, fiery red in autumn, and snow-white in winter.
Thatched Village Guided Walk (English)
Discover Miyama Kayabukinosato in depth by joining the Thatched Village Guided Walk led by a local English-speaking guide. Learn about the unique thatched-roof houses, village history, and rural traditions as you stroll through the picturesque lanes. Check Official Site
- Availability: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
- Schedule: Morning 10:00–11:00 / Afternoon 13:00–14:00
- Minimum Participants: 5 adults (or JPY 11,000/group for smaller groups)
- Price: Adults JPY 2,200 per person; Ages 13–15 JPY 1,100 per person
- Booking Deadline: 3 days before the tour date
Note: Additional payment is required for groups with fewer than 5 adults.
How to Get to Miyama Kayabukinosato (Last updated: May 21, 2025)
| Departure Station | Route | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Station |
Kyoto Station → JR Sagano Line to Sonobe → Transfer to JR San'in
Main Line (for Goma) and get off at Hiyoshi (Kyoto) → Nantan City Bus → Get off at final stop (walk 5 min) |
About 2 hr | ¥1,500 |
| Osaka Station | JR Kyoto Line to Kyoto Station → JR Sagano Line to Hiyoshi Station → Bus as above | About 2.5 hr | ¥2,500 |
| Kameoka Station | JR Sagano Line to Sonobe → Transfer to JR San'in Main Line (for Goma) and get off at Hiyoshi (Kyoto) → Nantan City Bus to Kayabuki no Sato | About 1.5 hr | ¥1,100 |
From Hiyoshi Station, take a Nantan City Bus bound for "Kayabuki no Sato" and get off at the final stop. The village is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.
Access on Foot (From Miyama Town Center to Kayabukinosato)
You can walk from Miyama Town Center to Kayabukinosato—it's about 2 km and takes around 30 minutes on foot. The route follows the Yura River and passes through scenic countryside, making for a relaxing stroll.
Start at Miyama Town Center:
Exit the center and follow the signs for Kayabukinosato, heading north along the
Yura River.
Enjoy the Rural Scenery:
Walk along the riverside path, passing rice fields, forested hills, and traditional
Japanese homes.
Arrive at Kayabukinosato:
Keep walking straight, and you’ll soon reach the entrance of the picturesque
thatched-roof village.
Walking is a wonderful way to take in the peaceful landscape and perhaps spot local wildlife. For those who love nature and tradition, exploring on foot is highly recommended!
Activity Information
- Location: Nantan, Kyoto, Japan
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (for museums/facilities)
- Recommended Season: All year (spring, autumn, winter snow)
-
Admission Fee: Village admission is free.
Miyama Folk Museum (美山民俗資料館): Adults ¥300, Elementary & Junior High School Students Free - Notes: Please respect residents’ privacy; some houses are private homes.