Japan has a long history of building homes with thatched roofs made from grass. Many of these houses have been lost over time. Yet in some special villages near Kyoto, people still build and inhabit these historic thatched houses. They are preserving this old way of life alive.
Miyama is a beautiful place in Japan. It’s famous for its old traditional houses with grass roofs. It’s a peaceful place with clean air, perfect to get away from a busy life. Miyama is made up of 26 small villages. These villages are scattered across a large area of mountains and valleys. This village has 39 houses with traditional thatched roofs. in 1993, recognising its historical significance, the government decided to protect this village.
For long years, the Japanese have used grass, straw, and reeds to build roofs. Now some are used as homes to live in, while others are used as places of worship.
Shinto, Japan’s ancient religion, has a deep connection to thatching and the imperial family. One of Japan’s last remaining thatchers, Haruo Nishio, explained that the word “Kaya”, meaning “thatch”. It is part of the name of a god. This god was born in a thatched hut.
In the 1990 s, Nishio moved to Miyama to learn the art of thatching. Thatching is more than just a job for Nishio. He bought an old, thatched house which is now a protected historical site, and lived there with his family.
“Thatched roofs… create a space of nothingness, including invisible energies,” Nishio said. “Perhaps this isn’t a house, but a place of worship, and it was built out of gratitude for God, Buddha and our ancestors.”
The Nishio family eventually opened the doors to their former home to visitors. Their business aims “to welcome visitors to experience our hometown’s wonderful lifestyle”, as Nishio explained.
For a memorable experience, you can stay overnight in one of these traditional houses. You can relax and enjoy food made from fresh, local ingredients. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery, a region in Japan known for its beautiful mountain and well-preserved rural traditions. You will be impressed by the house’s unique architecture and the connection to the history and culture of Japan.
In Miyama, people still rely on traditional ways of life like farming and growing trees. The houses with roofs made of grass. These houses keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. The community of Miyama is working to protect its cultural heritage and promote sustainable tourism.
“Lose yourself in the serenity of a Miyama thatched house, surrounded by nature and loved ones.”
