Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba Tours

Step back in time at the 'Healing Village'—a reconstructed hamlet of thatched-roof houses framed by the majestic Mount Fuji.

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Multiple options available
1 Languages
Small groups available
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

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Experience

Experience the Nostalgia of Ancient Japan

Nestled on the western banks of Lake Saiko, Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba (The Healing Village) offers a captivating glimpse into Japan's pastoral past. This open-air museum features over twenty reconstructed traditional houses with thatched roofs, standing on the site of a farming village that was once lost to a typhoon. Today, it has been beautifully restored as a hub of culture and craft. Visitors can explore the charming structures, which now serve as museums, galleries, and artisan workshops. Whether you are trying your hand at traditional pottery, dressing up in samurai armor for a memorable photo against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere of the countryside, a visit here provides a peaceful retreat from the modern world and a deep connection to Japanese heritage.

4.8/5
Average Rating
20+
Historic Houses
Year-round
Open Daily
Fuji View
Scenic Spot

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Secure your spot immediately for popular dates, especially during cherry blossom and autumn seasons

Flexible Cancellation

Most of our partner tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba village
Restored thatched-roof houses
Scenic views of Mt. Fuji
Peaceful Jinba Falls nature escape
Traditional mountain atmosphere

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

Village Logistics
Open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Mar-Nov)
Open 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Dec-Feb)
Last entry 30 mins before closing
Weather & Views
Mt. Fuji visibility depends on weather
Best visibility usually early morning
Winter offers clearest skies
Accessibility
Sloped paths can be challenging
Wheelchair accessible routes available
Gravel terrain in some areas
On-Site Facilities
Restrooms available
Soba noodle restaurants
Local craft souvenir shops

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book tours 2 weeks in advance for cherry blossom season
  • Morning slots offer better odds of seeing Mt. Fuji
  • Check if your tour includes the entrance fee (most do)
  • Combine with the Ice Cave or Wind Cave for a full day

What to Bring

  • Camera
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Cash (some small shops don't take cards)
  • Sunscreen
  • Umbrella (weather dependent)

Best Seasons to Visit

Spring (Sakura)|Autumn (Foliage)|Winter (Clear Views)

What to Wear

Comfortable walking shoes (essential)|Layers for changing mountain weather|Sun hat and sunglasses|Warm coat in winter (Nov-Mar)

Planning

Historical Context

Originally a farming settlement called 'Nenba', the village was devastated by a typhoon. The reconstruction project 'Iyashi no Sato' (Healing Village) aims to restore the original landscape and preserve the thatched-roof culture unique to this region.

Photography Tips

  • Use a polarizing filter to cut glare on Fuji
  • Shoot early morning for less haze
  • Portrait mode works great for kimono shots
  • Include the thatched eaves in your frame for context

Insider Tips

  • Walk to the very top of the village for the best photo of Fuji framing the houses
  • Try the washi paper making workshop, it takes only 20 minutes
  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds
  • The souvenir shop near the bridge sells exclusive local honey

Our Partners

  • Tours provided by trusted partners including Viator and local operators.

Fun Facts

  • The village was completely destroyed by a landslide in 1966.
  • It was rebuilt 40 years later as an open-air museum.
  • There are exactly 20 thatched-roof houses on the site.
  • Each house specializes in a different craft or exhibit.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund on most partner tours. Check specific ticket details at checkout.

Social Media

Share your experience: #IyashiNoSato #MtFuji #JapanTravel #HealingVillage #Fujikawaguchiko

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Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
USA • 2024-04-12

Highlight of our Japan trip

The village is absolutely beautiful. We rented kimonos and took hundreds of photos. The view of Fuji was shy that day, but the atmosphere of the thatched houses made up for it. Booking the bus tour from Tokyo was so easy.

M
Mohammed Al-Fayed
UAE • 2023-11-05

Excellent Muslim-friendly tour

We took the Muslim-friendly tour option and it was perfect. Halal lunch was delicious, and we had time for prayers. The village itself is serene and the autumn colors were breathtaking.

K
Kenji Tanaka
Japan • 2024-01-20

Beautiful but cold in winter

Great place to see the old style of Japan. The winter view with snow is stunning, but dress warmly! The wind from the lake can be chilly. The soba noodles at the restaurant warmed us up.

E
Elena Rodriguez
Spain • 2023-09-15

Cultural gem

I loved the craft workshops. We made our own postcards with washi paper. It's not just a museum, it feels alive. The guide from our tour was very knowledgeable about the history of the typhoon and reconstruction.

D
David Chen
Taiwan • 2023-07-08

Relaxing atmosphere

A nice break from the busy Tokyo streets. The air is fresh and the scenery is like a painting. We combined this with the Ice Cave tour which was nearby. Highly recommended for families.

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