Get off the beaten track and join the local community through a stay at Japan's traditional houses called 'kominka'. Getaways like this are on top of everyone's wish list right now and they are perfect to share with your friends and family. Travel beyond Japan’s cityscapes and instead of just seeing, truly experience Japanese culture and history in the astonishing Setouchi region! The area is known for its natural beauty, Naoshima and the art islands, and unforgettable outdoors experiences.
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
The kominka we are raving about were built between 100 and 250 years ago in the Setouchi Area – in Hiroshima Prefecture’s Shobara and Uchiko in Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku. Setouchi Cominca Stays enable you to rent a whole house and thoroughly immerse yourself in Japanese architecture and design. Have you ever slept in a miso factory? Definitely what we call an extraordinary holiday! Do something different and discover unknown sides of Japan in rural areas! Ideal for socially distanced holidays, all of the kominka on our list have been skilfully adapted to provide you with the classiest amenities.
It’s time to get your groove back and start planning the long-awaited holidays in Japan!
SHOBARA IN HIROSHIMA PREFECTURE
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
Located in the heart of Hiroshima prefecture, Shobara is famous for its untouched beauty and classic landscapes. Nestled between two coasts, it's a great base for exploring both the Setouchi area and the Sea of Japan coast.
Don't forget to add extraordinary outdoor experiences like hiking, biking, mountain climbing to your itinerary because they will not disappoint! Here you can slow down and get to know the local community through activities like vegetable picking or foraging. Then after a fulfilling day of rekindling with nature, cook your food on a wooden stove or...have a professional local chef Kouji Mikawa visit you! Who would say no to a seven-course meal created with local ingredients?
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
KOZAKO MORI, SHOBARA
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
Away from city lights, Kozako Mori, a 150 year old farmhouse, blesses you with splendid starry nights filled with the relaxing sound of a nearby mountain stream. An open plan area downstairs allows you to naturally enjoy the views and the refreshing breeze from every corner of the room.
FUROSEN, SHOBARA
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
The youngest out of the three properties in Shobara, Furosen, is a 100 year old who is still doing great. It must be the fresh mountain air! If outdoor baths are your thing, Furosen is the kominka for you. It's equipped with a wood-burning outdoor bath that lets you enjoy Furosen's ambiance any time of the year.
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
CHOJAYA, SHOBARA
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
This gorgeous kominka represents regional revitalisation in a nutshell. Previously left to its own devices, this 250 year old farm house has gone through a major glow-up! Chojaya with its thatched roof and modern amenities is an amazing country getaway. Japan has many hidden gems that are just waiting for you to notice and appreciate them.
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
UCHIKO IN EHIME PREFECTURE
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
Uchiko is a merchant town that was put on the map by... wax production! Located on the island of Shikoku, it's filled with treasures from its heyday in the late 19th century. What remains from those times are quaint streets filled with incredible traditional Japanese architecture and a superb kabuki theatre!
Uchiko candles are produced from haze sumac tree berries without the use of animal products which made them popular around the world. They were so highly esteemed, you can even find them in the British Museum! When you're in the area, take a walk to Omori Candle Shop where the 7th generation candle maker crafts with his bare hands!
ORI, UCHIKO
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
Breathe in the fresh air at Uchiko's Ori villa which used to be a miso factory and wood merchant's house. Maybe the smell of freshly produced miso still lingers in the area? This kominka boasts a large tatami room, and a private garden which you can view from a bath!
HISA, UCHIKO
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
Step back in time to Meiji period (1869-1912) and check out a converted merchant's house. You can find this residence in the town centre, perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture. This kominka will surprise you with a large private garden and a living room made for gatherings. Don't forget to check out the pottery and paper-making workshops around the area!
© Setouchi Cominca Stays
For more details contact reservation@wondertrunk.co or check out their website and Instagram!
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