Kayabuki-no-sato is a quaint village located in Miyama, a rural region of Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. This village is renowned for its traditional thatched-roof houses, known as 'kayabuki' in Japanese.

You might be familiar with the famous village of Shirakawa-go, and Kayabuki-no-sato shares similar charm and architectural beauty. However, it remains a hidden gem, relatively undiscovered by tourists. For me, it's a sanctuary away from the crowds, especially during Kyoto's peak tourist season.

These kayabuki houses have been meticulously preserved for centuries, representing a rare and authentic example of traditional Japanese architecture. Crafted from local materials such as bamboo, straw, and cedar bark, these houses are designed to withstand the region's heavy winter snowfall.

Recommended arrival time at the first location: 10:00 AM

Quick summary of the itinerary:

• Stroll through the picturesque surroundings.

• Savor a delightful lunch at one of the local options.

• Explore a couple of serene shrines.

• Discover two charming gift shops offering unique regional products. Here, you can also indulge in coffee, desserts, and purchase some delectable snacks to take with you.

Please note that there are no convenience stores in the area.