Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba (西湖いやしの里根場), also known as Saiko Iyashi no Sato Healing Village, is a reconstructed traditional village located in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. The village, situated on the shores of Lake Saiko with a stunning view of Mount Fuji, was once a farming community known for its thatched-roof houses. After being destroyed by a typhoon in 1966, the village was rebuilt in 2006 as an open-air museum, providing visitors with an immersive experience of traditional Japanese rural life and crafts.
The village showcases over 20 meticulously restored thatched-roof houses made from local materials, reflecting traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the village, step inside these houses, and witness demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery making, and soba noodle making. Some houses also function as museums and galleries, exhibiting local artifacts and artworks.
The village offers several dining options, including restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine like hoto, a hearty vegetable and noodle stew, as well as local specialties made with fresh ingredients from the region. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs at various shops, including those selling traditional crafts, local produce, and unique gifts.
Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba is not only a tourist attraction but also a place for relaxation and cultural immersion. Visitors can experience the tranquility of rural Japan, appreciate the beauty of traditional architecture, and learn about the region’s history and customs. The village hosts various events and workshops throughout the year, providing additional opportunities for visitors to engage with local culture.
Getting there
By Bus
From Kawaguchiko Station:
- Take the Saiko Sightseeing Bus (Green Line)
- Journey time: About 45 minutes
- Frequency: Hourly, 10 minutes past the hour
- Cost: 520 yen one-way
- Take a highway bus to Kawaguchiko Station
- Journey time: About 2 hours
- Then transfer to the Saiko Sightseeing Bus
By Car
- About 25-minute drive from Kawaguchiko Station
- Free parking available for visitors
Details
| Hours | March to November / 9:00 – 5:00 PM (Reception closes at 4:30 PM.) December to February / 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Reception closes at 4:00 PM.) |
| Admission | Adults: 500 yen Children: 250 yen |
| Phone | +81 555-20-4677 |
| Address | 2710 Saikonenba, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0332 |
| Official Website | https://saikoiyashinosatonenba.jp/en/ |