Kominka Yasaka

If you'd like to do outdoor explorations, hiking and cycling trips are the ways to go. There are plenty of shrines, temples, and ruins of castles hidden in the forested slopes of Nara's mountains. You can also rent or bring your own bike and go cycling. Visit Kashihara's historic neighborhood of Imaicho or get blessings at Asuka-dera and Ohara Jinja. As for unwinding, you can also rent a sauna tent from the host to detox, or rent an aromatic distiller to make some fragrances that you can take home.

Other Celebrations

Kominka Yasaka seems to be a great place to hold a private celebration, such as for your birthday or anniversary. But before you start planning, it's best to make sure that you get permission from the host. Even if they don't totally agree, they may instead be able to recommend an alternative venue just for the party.

Book Venue

Bowing (ojigi): It's advisable to bow to show respect when greeting someone. It can also be done to show gratitude or convey an apology.
Shoe etiquette: You must remove your outside footwear before stepping on the elevated area of the genkan (entrance) and entering a house. You should also ensure not to step on the lower area of the genkan without your shoes on. Shoes must be kept facing the entrance. If you wear socks, they should be clean and without any holes.
Slipper etiquette: It's usually better to wear fresh socks or slippers inside the house, especially for formal situations. Make sure to remove your slippers before stepping into a room with tatami mats on the floor. There should also be a separate set of slippers for the washroom.
Dining etiquette: How you hold and place your chopsticks while dining is crucial. For example, they shouldn't be held upright when eating rice. You must also place them on a holder when you're not using them. It's good to say "Itadakimasu" before starting a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after completing it.
Tipping etiquette: Tipping isn't a common practice in Japan and may be considered rude.
Luggage etiquette: Luggage, especially those with wheels, should be carried instead of being dragged across the floor as it might damage the tatami mats or wooden flooring.
Photography etiquette: Photography rules can change from place to place, so make sure to check for signs or ask the staff before taking pictures anywhere.
Queueing etiquette: Make sure to maintain queues and never cut in line.
Onsen etiquette: Some onsens don't allow tattoos, so check with the staff before getting into one. You must also shower and be clean before entering a shared onsen bath.
Bathing etiquette: Japanese baths include separate areas for washing while the tub itself is meant only for soaking. This means bathers must first wash, scrub, and rinse themselves before entering the bath tub.