Wood house in Shiga

Full description

A small hamlet along a stream with views of Mt. Ibuki. Backed by a carefully nurtured satoyama (rural mountain landscape), this luxurious traditional Japanese house features the classic four-tatami "yoji-no-ma" (田の字) room layout plus additional spaces. Once you step inside, a slow and mindful lifestyle awaits. The satoyama, which surrounds the hamlet, has been shaped over centuries by balanced human engagement; firewood and forest vegetables have been traditionally harvested here. The front entrance is painted in benignara (deep red oxide), a local tradition that adds charm and natural insect-repelling properties. The spacious genkan (entrance) can accommodate winter rope-making, mochi preparation, persimmon drying, summer water washing, or storing outdoor gear like skis and camping equipment, featuring built-in wooden shelving like modern shoe storage. The main house contains four tatami rooms in the traditional田の字 layout, plus a small tatami room, kitchen, and engawa (veranda). A corridor connects to the gakuryō (caretaker's dwelling) with two tatami rooms on the first floor and one large, unfinished room upstairs, ideal for remote workers. Every room features hand-crafted transoms and sliding doors with beautiful traditional designs. A detached building (mizuya) provides groundwater. The original outdoor toilet has been removed. The expanded grounds comfortably accommodate vehicle parking and barbecuing. However, only urinals are currently installed; bathroom renovation is needed. / The settlement is organized into several groups with community events requiring rotating duties; residents participate in ditch maintenance (mizo-bushin) and summer festivals, maintaining good connections with neighbors while joining longstanding traditions. The landlord is a key local figure who has long served the community and welcomes residents eager to cultivate authentic countryside living. / Notable features: Benignara paint adds both aesthetic charm and practical insect resistance. Traditional Japanese house design with田の字 layout, verandas, excellent natural light and ventilation. Spacious entrance with generous storage. / Surroundings: Nearest station is a 5-minute drive; elementary school nearby, ideal for families. Near a stream where fireflies dance. At the base of a well-maintained satoyama with rich nature. Even on snowy days, snowplows clear roads early morning. Excellent sunlight.

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