🏡 "Step Back in Time: Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba – Japan’s Picturesque Thatched-Roof Village

#summervacay
### **📍 Location:**
Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture (Near Lake Saiko)

### **⏰ Opening Hours:**
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)

### **💰 Budget Breakdown (USD):**
- **Entrance Fee:** ~$5 (¥500)
- **Transport:**
- **From Kawaguchiko Station:**
- Retro Bus (30 min, ~$6 round-trip)
- Taxi (~$15 one-way)
- **Extras:**
- **Workshops (pottery, weaving, etc.):** $5–$15
- **Local snacks (mochi, grilled trout):** $2–$5

### **⏳ Time Needed:** 2–3 hours

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### **🌸 Why Visit?**
1️⃣ **20+ restored thatched-roof houses** in a stunning mountain setting
2️⃣ **Handicraft workshops** (try indigo dyeing or woodworking!)
3️⃣ **Postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji** (on clear days)
4️⃣ **Seasonal beauty** (cherry blossoms in spring, fiery foliage in autumn)

### **💡 Solo Traveler Tips:**
✔️ **Best lighting for photos:** Early morning or golden hour (3–5 PM)
✔️ **Wear comfy shoes** – the village has gravel paths
✔️ **Check the weather** – Fuji views depend on clear skies
✔️ **Combine with:** A trip to Lake Saiko or the nearby **Fugaku Wind Cave**

### **📸 Must-Capture Spots:**
- **Reflection pond** with Fuji views
- **Thatched roofs against autumn leaves**
- **Traditional craft demonstrations**

### **🍡 Local Flavors:**
- **"Hoto" noodles** (Yamanashi’s famous miso stew)
- **Grilled "ayu" (sweetfish)** from Lake Saiko

### **🚌 Getting There:**
- **From Tokyo:** Take the Fuji Excursion train to Kawaguchiko (~2 hrs), then the **Retro Bus (Saiko Line)** to Iyashi no Sato.

#hiddenjapan #fujiviews #traditionaljapan #solotravel

**"Where time stands still – wander among thatched cottages with Fuji as your backdrop."** 🌿🗻

*(Note: Some houses are museums, while others are active craft shops!)*

Would you like recommendations for nearby onsen (hot springs)? 😊