Approximately 40 of the village's structures are roofed with susuki (Japanese silver grass), which must be replaced every 15 to 20 years.
The village maintains an elaborate community-wide fire suppression system consisting of decorative wooden huts that house high-pressure water cannons.
Seasonal fire drills, known as 'Issai Hosui', involve the synchronized activation of these water cannons for inspection and public demonstration.
The local geography is defined by the Yura River, which winds through the valley and influences the region's historical agricultural development.
Many of the thatched roofs utilize a technique called 'kushi-gata' where the eaves are shaped to allow light and ventilation into the attic space.
Kayabuki No Sato is a preserved rural village in Miyama, Nantan, renowned for its high concentration of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses. Known as 'kayabuki', these straw-roofed dwellings date primarily from the Edo period and remain part of a living community rather than an open-air museum. The site contains 39 traditional houses, most of which are protected as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Unlike more commercialized tourist sites, residents continue to live and work in these homes, maintaining agricultural practices alongside tourism. The architecture features distinctive gabled roofs designed to shed heavy snow common in this mountainous region. The village is organized along a hillside path, providing panoramic views of the surrounding cedar forests and rice paddies.
The elevated path near the public parking area that offers a full view of the village slope.
Stay overnight at one of the minshuku (guesthouses) to experience the village after the day-trip crowds depart.
Respect the local privacy by adhering to designated walking paths and avoiding peering into private residential windows.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the village consists of unpaved, uneven, and inclined village lanes.
Do not assume every building is a shop; many are private family homes marked with 'no entry' signs.
Do not enter private properties or gardens without explicit permission; keep noise levels low as this is a residential area.
