There are places you don’t just visit…
There are places that invite you to play, to feel, and to experience Japan from within.
A few days ago we discovered one of those magical spots in the area of Saiko, very close to Kawaguchiko, where time seems to stand still among mountains, forests, and traditional houses.
From the moment you walk through the entrance (500 yen), you know this won’t be an ordinary visit. It feels like stepping into a small ancient Japanese village, where every corner has a story to tell.
But what truly made this experience unforgettable… was becoming part of it.
Living Japan… literally
For 2,000 yen, you can rent a kimono or even dress up as a samurai or warrior.
And yes… even as a woman, I chose to be a samurai because I deeply admire them.
I feel a profound respect for their legacy… for those values of honor, discipline, respect, and order that, in many ways, are still alive in Japanese culture today. And that is something I truly love.
My friend Heidi dressed as a warrior… and together, we escorted our princess, who wore a beautiful kimono. That’s the story we created and—the one we had so much fun with.
Walking along stone paths, crossing small bridges over a gentle stream, posing among traditional houses and tall forest trees with a sword in hand… it all felt magical. It wasn’t just a costume—it was a full experience.
We had such a good time and laughed so much… it became one of those memories you carry with you forever.
Nature that embraces you
The natural surroundings are an essential part of the magic.
Tall trees surround the village, creating a peaceful and immersive atmosphere. A small stream winds through the area, crossed by charming wooden bridges, and beautiful stairways lead you to different corners full of character.
And something we truly loved: even though there were several visitors, it never felt crowded.
That perfect balance between beauty, calm, and space… is exactly what we look for when we travel.
And all of this… with the majestic presence of Mount Fuji in the background (slightly shy behind the clouds that day, but still breathtaking).
Living culture in every house
Each building within the village holds a story.
During our visit, we found:
- A special Hina doll exhibition (available for a limited time, tied to the season)
- A museum about the 1966 typhoon that impacted the area
- Spaces with art, traditional objects, and representations of Mount Fuji
And also, we were able to take off our shoes, and explore a space with tatami floors, altars, and antique objects. It was a very intimate way to connect with Japan’s past.
In that builing one of the most special moments was discovering a stunning artwork that covered almost an entire wall: a depiction of Monte Fuji with its blue sky… made entirely out of paper cranes.
It was simply beautiful.
Delicate, symbolic, and deeply Japanese… one of those moments that makes you pause in silence, just to take it all in.
Each house felt carefully preserved, authentic… and full of respect for tradition.
Flavors that tell stories too
In between exploring, we stopped to enjoy dango with green tea.
And this needs to be said clearly:
it’s nothing like the supermarket version.
The flavor was softer, more authentic, more “homemade.” One of those small details that makes the whole experience even more special.
We sat on tatami flooring, on soft cushions, around a beautiful kotatsu—a traditional low table with a built-in heater underneath and a blanket that keeps the warmth inside.
It was perfect for warming up a little… and truly feeling at home.
Little details to fall in love with
There are also small shops filled with beautiful handcrafted items:
Glass, ceramics, silk… every piece feels made with patience and care.
In one of them, I found tiny frog charms that completely stole my heart.
In Japanese, “frog” is kaeru, which also means “to return home.” Because of this, frogs are seen as symbols of good luck and a wish for safe returns.
I found that meaning so deeply beautiful… that I decided to buy several and gift them to my friends. I told them it was my wish for them: that they always return home safely.
A small gesture… but full of meaning.
A sensory experience you don’t expect
Another special place was an incense shop… the kind that embraces you the moment you walk in.
The aroma was absolutely incredible.
They offer incense in many sizes and prices, often in small sachets perfect for gifts. But what makes it even more special is that you can create your own custom incense blend.
The experience lasts between 30 and 60 minutes… and although I didn’t do it this time, it’s definitely on my list for the next visit.
A lucky encounter
As if everything else wasn’t already enough…
We were also lucky enough to encounter a young japanese tanuki.
A local told us it wasn’t an adult yet… and that tanuki are considered a very important symbol of good luck in Japan. They say that those who are fortunate enough to see one… receive that luck as well.
And honestly, after a day like this… I have no doubt
More than a place, an experience
This is not just a place to see…
it’s a place to feel, to play, to explore, and to reconnect.
A space where you can become part of history for a few hours, surrounded by beauty, tradition, and moments that stay with you.
If you’re in Yamanashi…
this is something you don’t just visit. You experience it.
Practical Info
- Entrance fee: 500 yen
- Kimono / Samurai / Warrior rental: 2,000 yen (approx. 2.5 hours)
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Parking: free and spacious
- Food and souvenirs: available inside and outside the village
- Website: saikoiyashinosatonenba.jp/en
- Language: English-friendly
