Guide
Tokonegawa in Shiaba Village, Miyazaki Prefecture, is a designated Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Spanning approximately 39.9 hectares, this area encompasses the Tokonegawa and Okubo settlements along with the surrounding forest. The settlement is situated on the southern slope of a valley surrounded by mountains. It was officially designated as a national preservation district on December 25, 1998. The region is renowned for its unique 'Shihaba-style' residential architecture, where traditional houses, stables, and storehouses are harmoniously arranged within the landscape.
This region serves as a living testament to a way of life adapted to a rugged natural environment. The 'Shihaba-style' architecture reflects the local topography and the traditional lifestyle of the inhabitants. Furthermore, the area preserves deep-rooted traditions such as 'Shiaba Kagura,' a significant intangible folk cultural asset of Japan. The structural design of the village, utilizing stone walls and stone steps, demonstrates the ancestral wisdom of living on steep mountain slopes.
The Tokonegawa area features several iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Notable sites include the Tokonegawa Shrine, the Himmura Sugi (ancient cedar trees), and the Hinoki cypress trees of Okubo. The stone walls throughout the settlement are a striking feature, some exceeding 4 meters in height and 40 meters in length, working in tandem with stone stairways to create a breathtaking, integrated landscape of man-made structures and nature.
As a mountain village, the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. From March to November, visitors can enjoy the changing colors of the surrounding forests and the stark, impressive outlines of the traditional houses and stone walls. Please note that because it is a mountainous region, weather conditions and terrain can change rapidly.
Visitors can experience the authentic structure of a traditional Japanese mountain settlement up close. The 'Shihaba-style' houses and the intricate stone masonry are unique to this region. To deepen your cultural understanding, you can also visit the Shiaba Folklore Museum nearby to learn more about the local customs and history.
There are many historical and natural sites nearby, including the Shiaba Itsukushima Shrine, the Nasu Family Residence (also known as Tsurutomi Yashiki, a National Important Cultural Property), the Kami-Shiaba Dam, the giant Gingko tree of Matsuo, and Shiromizu Falls. Exploring these spots will provide a comprehensive understanding of the geography and culture of Shiaba Village.
The settlement is built on steep slopes with many stone steps and uneven surfaces. Please wear sturdy walking shoes and be careful while moving around. As this is a residential area, please respect the privacy of the locals and maintain a quiet atmosphere. Please note that most local services primarily accept cash.