Kominka Yado Kuratani

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Guests might think Kuratani is just a simple kominka guest house, but the many adventures found in the region and offered by the local community are definitely going to turn into worthwhile memories. Yearly festivals are a favorite here, and the Shikoku Sake Festival is one of the island's biggest celebrations, held every February and commemorates the various regional specialties and breweries.

The hills that surround the Yoshino River's valleys are dotted with temples and shrines, many of which are located on scenic vistas and are centuries old. Hashikura-ji, for example, sits atop the hill that overlooks Ikedacho and can be accessed via a ropeway gondola. The neighborhoods that make up Miyoshi offer a variety of activities that represent the local industries, such as tea leaf picking and soba-making. There's also the Kazurabashi Vine Bridge over at the southern areas of Miyoshi, considered a sacred Shinto site and a popular "love test" for romantic couples.

Miyoshi is also a major hotspot for outdoor adventurers, owing to the incredible number of mountains, valleys, and rivers in the region. Those who prefer a relaxed pace can savor a leisurely river cruise, admiring the Yoshino River's green waters and the high peaks that surround it. Hikers looking for a challenge can instead explore the trails of Mt. Ryugatake and Mt. Nokanoike.

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.