Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba (Traditional Japanese Village) — Attraction in Fujikawaguchiko

Located on the western shores of Lake Saiko and offering a postcard-worthy view of Mount Fuji on clear days, Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba—commonly known as the Saiko Iyashi Village—is a quaint stop that blends traditional Japanese charm with a touch of modern tourism. While the setting itself is undeniably beautiful, the overall experience feels somewhat underwhelming, especially when you take the entrance fee into account.

To enter the village, visitors are required to pay a modest admission fee. At first, this seems fair—after all, the setting is picturesque, the thatched-roof houses are photogenic, and there’s an expectation of a cultural experience. However, once inside, you quickly realize that there’s not a whole lot to see or do beyond the aesthetic appeal. The village is essentially a cluster of restored traditional houses, many of which have been converted into small boutique shops or mini galleries selling crafts, souvenirs, and regional snacks. While some of the handmade items are charming and unique, the shopping experience is relatively limited and feels more like a curated tourist stop than an immersive cultural journey.

To be fair, the houses themselves are beautifully preserved and offer a glimpse into what rural life in Japan may have looked like in the past. A few of the buildings include small exhibits—such as traditional weaving, pottery displays, or local artwork—but these are quite basic. There are occasional workshops and kimono or samurai costume rentals for photos, which could be fun for families or first-time visitors looking for that perfect Instagram moment. Still, these features are optional and add-on expenses on top of the entry fee.

If you’re hoping for a bustling village full of interactive exhibits, local artisans at work, or a more in-depth cultural narrative, you might be disappointed. Saiko Iyashi Village is more of a photo stop than a full-day destination. Most visitors seem to spend 30 minutes to an hour here at most. Once you’ve admired the architecture, taken a few shots with Mount Fuji in the background, and browsed the handful of shops, there’s not much left to explore.

What does redeem the experience somewhat is the surrounding nature. The views of Mount Fuji—when the weather cooperates—are stunning. The air is crisp, the village is peaceful, and there’s a calming energy to the area that makes it a pleasant break from the more crowded tourist spots around Fuji Five Lakes. If you happen to be passing by or including it as part of a larger day trip itinerary, it’s worth a short visit.

In summary, Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba is a charming but minimal cultural stop. It offers beautiful scenery and a taste of traditional Japan, but falls short of being truly engaging or worth a special trip on its own. If you’re in the area and curious, it’s nice to walk through. But if you’re short on time or expecting a full cultural immersion, you might want to prioritize other...

A Stunning Hidden Gem – A Must-Visit in Japan

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba is an absolutely breathtaking place to visit if you’re traveling in Japan. Here are a few tips and highlights from my experience to help you plan your trip:

Private Tour Experience

We visited this village as part of a private guided tour designed by us (added his recommendation) , which made the day so much smoother, especially since we were traveling with young kids. He took us to several spots, including a scenic maple viewing area, this village, a boat tour on the lake with views of Mt. Fuji, and an onsen watching Mt Fuji (highly recommend this—don’t skip it!)

We were lucky to see Mt. Fuji clearly during the boat tour in the morning since it became cloudy later in the day. If you’re considering a private guide, it’s worth it. We paid around $400 USD for the day, and it was well-organized and stress-free. We could have gone to more places but we had a train to catch so I need to adjust the schedule accordingly.(if you want to know the tour guide I used today, his name on Facebook is Huy Bianchi. A friend recommended him to me and I'm glad I went with him, very thoughtful and kind)

Parking Area Food Recommendation

Right near the parking lot, there are a few of small, traditional Japanese restaurants. If you’re a seafood lover, you must try the grilled fish on a stick. It’s simple yet incredible—lightly seasoned with salt and perfectly grilled. At just 800 yen per fish, it’s delicious and affordable! Don’t miss this hidden culinary gem.

Kimono Rental

Once you enter the village, you’ll see a kimono rental shop. It’s a fantastic opportunity to dress up and immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere. Unfortunately, they only take reservations in advance, which we didn’t know. We were quite disappointed since the rental fee is very reasonable—around 2,000 yen. This is much cheaper than what we paid for kimono rentals near Asakusa Temple in Tokyo (about 6,000 yen each). If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend booking your kimono rental ahead of time!

Photo Opportunities and Souvenirs

The village is incredibly picturesque, so take plenty of photos. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop, where you can purchase Fuji stones and other unique keepsakes.

Peaceful Atmosphere

Surprisingly, this place wasn’t crowded with tourists, even though it’s so beautiful. It’s a peaceful escape, and the serene environment makes it well worth the trip. If u are lucky that the sky is clear, you might see Mt Fuji too

Final Thoughts: This village offers a unique and memorable experience that combines history, culture, and stunning views. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking to explore traditional Japan. Plan ahead to make the most of your visit, and definitely include this gem in...

Stepping Back in Time at Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba

My December visit to Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba was a charming journey into Japan's past. Nestled on the shores of Lake Saiko with Mt. Fuji as a majestic backdrop, this recreated village offered a glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

A Village Reborn

The village's history adds another layer to the experience. Originally a farming community, it was sadly destroyed by a landslide in the 1960s. Its reconstruction as an open-air museum is a testament to preserving Japan's heritage.

Thatched-Roof Enchantment

Strolling through the village, I was struck by the beauty of the thatched-roof houses. Each one, meticulously restored, housed a shop, restaurant, museum, or gallery. I particularly enjoyed the Watanabe House, which showcased the daily lives of the area's past farmers. The Erosion and Sediment Control Museum offered a fascinating explanation of the landslide and how such disasters are prevented now.

Experiencing Japanese Culture

Beyond the informative museums, the village bustled with opportunities to experience Japanese culture firsthand. I browsed shops selling local crafts, from delicate pottery to aromatic incense. Some shops even offered workshops where you could try your hand at these crafts, a unique way to take home a piece of Saiko.

Winter Wonderland Charm

Visiting in December, I was treated to a winter wonderland scene. The thatched roofs dusted with snow added to the village's picturesque charm. While some shops might have adjusted their winter hours, there were still plenty open for me to explore.

A Perfect Escape

Overall, Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba is a perfect escape for anyone seeking a taste of traditional Japanese life. The walkable size makes it easy to explore in a few hours, and the stunning scenery provides a memorable backdrop. If you're looking for a cultural experience with a touch of winter magic, I highly recommend adding this village to...