[Travel Conditions]
Departure/Destination: Kyoto/Osaka - Miyama
Duration: Day trip
Transportation: Private charter bus
Bus Operator: Chuo Kotsu Bus or equivalent
Meals: Breakfast: 0, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0
Accommodation: None
Min. people to depart: 1
Tour leader: 1 (A tour leader who can provide guidance in English and Chinese will accompany the tour)
Guide: 0
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Company Name: Club Tourism International Inc
Address: 1-9-6 Edagawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 1693
Affiliated Travel Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Regular Member
[Entrusted Sales]
KKDAY JAPAN Inc.
WESTALL Yotsuya Bldg. 2F, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 2045
Affiliated Organization: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
A minimum of 1 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Snow scenery may not be visible depending on weather conditions. Snowfall levels vary by season.
Road surfaces may be slippery, so please wear non-slip footwear (such as shoes with deep treads or cold-weather/waterproof boots). This tour involves outdoor walking at night. Temperatures may drop below freezing at night, so please bring cold-weather gear (such as warm clothing, coats, disposable body warmers, gloves, hats, and earmuffs).
Some snowy night paths are dark, so we recommend bringing a flashlight. In case of rain, please bring a raincoat or poncho.
Please be mindful of others when using tripods or taking photos/videos. The use of drones is prohibited.
If you are participating in an odd-numbered group, you may be seated with other travelers, and you may be seated next to someone of the opposite gender.
Delays or non-participation due to public transportation delays are subject to cancellation fees. The tour will depart at the time stated on the voucher.
A fee of JPY 1,500 per meal will be charged for changes to meal contents due to food allergies or religious reasons, and any price difference will be charged at cost. Please notify us at least 14 days before the departure date. Please consult with us for requests made after this period.
The itinerary order may be changed, in which case the tour leader will inform you on the day.
The travel fee for infants (3-6 years old/preschoolers) is JPY 5,000. The fee includes a bus seat only.
Miyama Thatched Village (Miyama Kayabuki-no Sato) is renowned for its well-preserved traditional thatched-roof houses, often referred to as 'kayabuki' homes. It offers a glimpse into Japan's rural past and original scenery, distinct from modern cityscapes. The village is particularly famous for its limited-time Winter Lantern Festival, where the snow-covered houses are beautifully illuminated.
Miyama Thatched Village is nestled in the mountains of northern Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Due to its secluded location, direct public transportation is limited, and parking is often restricted or requires reservations. For convenient access without the hassle of navigating difficult routes or securing parking, a bus tour from major cities like Osaka or Kyoto is highly recommended.
While both Miyama Thatched Village and Shirakawa-go feature traditional thatched-roof houses, Miyama is generally considered a smaller, more intimate, and less commercialized 'living' village where residents continue their daily lives. Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is larger and tends to attract more tourists, with many houses converted into museums or guesthouses. Miyama offers a quieter, more authentic rural experience.
To fully experience the charm of Miyama Thatched Village, especially during the enchanting Winter Lantern Festival, a stay of approximately two hours is recommended. This allows ample time to stroll through the illuminated village, admire the traditional architecture, enjoy warm seasonal treats like zenzai, and explore the local food stalls and souvenir shops.
While Miyama Thatched Village offers beauty in every season, winter is often considered the optimal time for a truly unique atmosphere, particularly during the Winter Lantern Festival. The sight of the snow-covered thatched roofs illuminated by gentle lights creates a magical and unforgettable landscape, showcasing a quintessential Japanese winter wonderland.
During the Winter Lantern Festival, visitors can immerse themselves in the magical ambiance of the thatched-roof village illuminated by gentle lights, creating a breathtaking night view. Beyond the stunning scenery, you can enjoy warm hospitality with treats like zenzai (sweet red bean soup), explore various food stalls offering warm winter menus, and shop for local specialty products, enhancing the festive experience.
To ensure a comfortable winter visit, Miyama Thatched Village tours often include warm amenities such as complimentary zenzai (sweet red bean soup) to combat the cold. Food stalls at the venue offer a variety of warm, seasonal dishes. Furthermore, guided tours typically provide English and Chinese assistance, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for international visitors, even in colder weather.
Miyama Thatched Village is an excellent day trip choice from Kyoto or Osaka due to its unique cultural charm and the convenience offered by organized bus tours. Despite its challenging access by public transport, these tours handle all logistics, providing hassle-free round-trip transportation. This allows visitors to enjoy a serene escape to Japan's traditional countryside and its winter illuminations without worrying about planning.