Miyama Kayabuki no Sato (Thatched-Roof Village) - Kitamura

Overview

Miyama Kayabuki no Sato - Kitamura is a traditional village in Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, featuring numerous houses with thatched roofs. Many of these thatched-roof houses, built between the Edo and Meiji periods, remain, leading to the village's designation as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The village still retains its traditional way of life, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the traditional architecture and scenery. The surrounding area boasts abundant nature, perfect for hiking and cycling. Kayabuki no Sato was once a mountain village whose main industry was forestry. The road running through the village was part of the so-called Saba Kaido (Saba Road), a route connecting Kyoto and Wakasa. As a midpoint between these two areas, it saw many travelers passing through. This is believed to have influenced the village's architecture and lifestyle. The houses in the village are built on terraced slopes, with stone walls at the front of each property. Many of the existing thatched-roof houses were built from the middle to the late Edo period and are classified as "Kitayama-gata Minka" (Kitayama-style farmhouses). They are characterized by their tall gable roofs and decorative elements similar to those found on shrine buildings. The Miyama Folk Museum is located within the village. It showcases the main house, barn, and storehouse of a Kitayama-style farmhouse, displaying over 200 antique farming tools and household items—rare and valuable relics providing a glimpse into the past lives of Miyama's people. Kayabuki no Sato is a heartwarming place where the nostalgic scenery of old Japan remains. It's highly recommended for those seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.