Discover the Hidden Japanese Village of Suganuma Now Open for Free Overnight Stays After 20 Years

Unique Japanese Experience in Suganuma Village

This one-of-a-kind Japanese experience will open to two guests on June 29.

When you think of traditional Japanese architecture, thatched roofs and A-frame homes may not come to mind at first. However, that’s exactly what makes the Gassho-style homes in the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama so unique. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, overnight access to the region is rare. Nevertheless, for the first time in 20 years, the nine-home Suganuma village is welcoming two guests to one of its 170-year-old homes.

The Charm of Gassho-style Homes

“I am delighted to open my family’s home for a unique stay that will enable guests to enjoy the traditional life of our beautiful village of Suganuma,” said Shinichi Nakashima, a fifth-generation resident of the village and host. “Through our collaboration with Airbnb, my family and I look forward to providing guests with unique experiences that have been part of our village for centuries.”

The cozy home, adorned with Japanese furniture and lanterns, is situated near the banks of the Sho River, surrounded by dramatic mountains. However, what makes it such a “secret” is that it doesn’t feature any tourist accommodations, and residents are only permitted entry after sunset.

“Suganuma is a cultural time capsule,” the vacation rental company stated. “The village’s Gassho-zukuri style farmhouses, like the Nakashimas’ family home, are unique to the region, designed to withstand heavy winter snowfall through their pitched, thatched roof structures.” These homes were built as a communal effort, emphasizing the villagers’ collaborative spirit known as yui.

Discovering the Cultural Time Capsule

The unique rental can be requested on June 29 at 8 p.m. ET, which translates to June 30 at 9 a.m. local time in Japan, for a stay from July 17 through July 19. Interestingly, the stay is complimentary, signifying the priceless nature of this experience, as stated about this one-bedroom rental.

Authentic Local Experiences Await

During their visit, guests will enjoy a welcome tea prepared by Nakashima featuring local dishes like Gokayama tofu, mountain vegetables, and river fish. Additionally, guests will learn about traditions such as making washi, a traditional Japanese paper, as well as how to play the sasara, a percussion instrument. The experience also includes an opportunity to explore the area on a guided bike ride, concluding with a nighttime light show complemented by folk music performances.

“The rich history and vibrant culture of this charming small town, coupled with the warm hearts of the people who live there, will create a fascinating and restorative stay,” remarked Mikio Tanaka, mayor of Nanto City in the Toyama Prefecture, where this beautiful village is located. “We hope this initiative brings attention to this stunning destination for both Japanese residents and visitors worldwide.”

For further details, visit the listing at airbnb.com.