Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: A Gassho Village Under Mount Fuji

When people think of Japan’s gassho-style villages, most immediately picture Shirakawa-go.
But did you know there’s also a traditional gassho village right near Mount Fuji?
It’s called Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, and it’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy classic Japanese scenery with Mount Fuji in the background.

Fuji Five Lakes – Saiko

The Fuji Five Lakes—Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako, Saiko, Motosuko, and Shojiko—were all formed by volcanic activity from Mount Fuji.
Among them, Kawaguchiko is the most famous and the easiest to reach, so it’s always crowded with tourists.

Just west of Kawaguchiko is Saiko, a much quieter lake that hasn’t been overly developed.
It’s a calm and relaxing place, perfect if you want to avoid the crowds.

And the highlight here is the charming Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, a restored traditional gassho village.

We drove to the village and found a large free parking lot right outside.
From the entrance, you can already see wide fields, straight water channels, and several thatched-roof houses standing against a backdrop of Mount Fuji.
Compared to busy spots like Chureito Pagoda or the Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, this place feels peaceful and incredibly refreshing.

👉👉 KKday Japan eSIM / SIM card
👉👉 Klook Japan eSIM / SIM card

Walking into the Gassho Village

As you walk toward the entrance, you’ll even spot a few scarecrows along the waterway, some of them “cheering you on” with a thumbs-up 😆

The entrance fee is 500 yen for adults.

Once inside, you’re greeted by a nostalgic little village filled with traditional gassho-style houses.
These steep, thatched roofs blend beautifully with the surrounding greenery, and every building feels like a piece of history.

Along the paths, you’ll see various craft workshops—pottery, weaving, and small shops selling local goods.
And of course, Mount Fuji rises in the distance, creating the perfect postcard view with the gassho houses.

History of Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba

Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba was originally a real gassho village with over a hundred years of history.
The houses were built with steep thatched roofs that look like hands pressed together in prayer.

But in 1966, a powerful typhoon destroyed almost the entire settlemen, 37 out of 41 houses were lost.
Fortunately, the village wasn’t forgotten.
After years of planning and reconstruction, it was rebuilt along the lake and reopened to the public in 2006.

Today, the village preserves the traditional style while offering visitors a calm, cultural, and scenic place to explore.

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: What You Can Do Here

The village now has 20 gassho-style houses, each with its own purpose.
Some are perfect for photography, while others serve as craft studios where you can watch artisans at work, pottery, textiles, and more.
There are also small eateries and souvenir shops where you can try local food or bring home handmade crafts.

One fun option is to rent traditional outfits like kimono, ninja costumes, or samurai-style clothing.
Walking through the village in costume with Mount Fuji behind you makes for amazing photos.

I loved sitting by the kotatsu and looking out at the distant view of Mount Fuji.

There’s also a building where you can view displays of Hina dolls on wooden floors.👇

At the back of the village, you’ll find the small but atmospheric Nenba Hachiman Shrine.👇

What makes Iyashi-no-Sato so special is the blend of restored architecture and the stunning view of Mount Fuji, it feels both historical and healing at the same time.

Nearby, you’ll also find the entrance to the Aokigahara Forest, which makes it easy to combine both locations in one visit if you’re driving.

The calm lakeside scenery and the rustic charm of the village create a soothing atmosphere that’s perfect for slowing down and recharging.

---

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: Visitor Information

• Hours:
  • 09:00–17:00 (March–November)
  • 09:30–16:30 (December–February)
• Admission: Adults 500 yen / Children 250 yen
• Address: Yamanashi Prefecture, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Saiko Nenba 2710

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: How to Get There

• By Bus:
  • Take the Green Line (Saiko Sightseeing Bus) and get off at Nenba Iriguchi.
• By Car:
  • There is a large free parking lot next to the village.

👉👉 KKday Japan eSIM / SIM card
👉👉 Klook Japan eSIM / SIM card