The original structure is a exemplar of the exquisite traditional Japanese "kominka" construction. Surrounded on all sides by a small brook, the soothing sound of running water surrounds this house. Furnished with traditional Japanese furniture, some more than 100 years old, you will be enchanted by the house's charm. Many of the traditional Japanese doors were hand crafted by
the Arima family an
d are beautifully constructed. As you wander around the original structure, you will be amazed by the size of the huge wooden beams used in the construction of the original house. They really don't make them like this anymore! There are also lots of beautiful Japanese wood carvings and paintings dating back to 1908 and the original construction. In the summer, there is an amazing network of trails and lots of outdoor activities for the whole family. There is a big river nearby which is good for fishing and kids will get hours of enjoyment playing with the network of small brooks surrounding the house (mostly very shallow and safe for children)
Want a white Christmas? In the winter the sheer volume of snow will stun and amaze you. If you ski or snowboard, you will find some of Japan's best powder backcountry runs available from the nearby Kagura Mitsumata gondola. Guest Access
Guests will have access to the entire house. Interaction with Guests
I will probably not be there, but I hope you enjoy your stay! In the rare occasion that my family and I are there, you will have full privacy in your section of the house. The Neighborhood
In the summer, there is excellent access to a network of great trails. It is possible to hike all the way to Yuzawa Kogen (near Yuzawa station) and then bus back. We are located 1.4 kilometers from the Kagura/Mitsumata Gondola, which goes up to some of the best powder/backcountry runs that Japan has to offer. They allow you to ski off the trail and if deep powder is your thing, then you'll love it here. You can walk to the Kagura gondola in 15-20 minutes. Other Things to Note
This house is more than 100 years old. As such it is "well ventilated." We do our best to heat it and we think you'll be happy, but please be aware that central heating is not part of Japanese culture and each room has a separate heater. When you wake up in the morning, it will be cold until you have run the heaters! House Rules
Guests are expected to leave the house in the same condition as they found it...clean! We have a cleaning service that does the sheets, towels and vacuuming. So, guests are expected to leave the kitchen and bathrooms in the same condition as they found them...clean!
