Being over 150 years old, Kominka Yado Rootfield would have been a silent witness to many turning points in Japan's history. Yet even with the passing of decades, it remains a firm and stable home, now providing warmth and shelter to travelers visiting Yamanashi. Although it has been modernized and refurbished to a certain extent, many of its quirks and charm have been retained. The host warns guests to watch out for low beams, be careful with the steep stairs, and try to not be bothered by the creaking aged wood. Yet those qualities a stay at Rootfield all the more authentic and immersive, letting guests live like the locals did back in the Edo Period.

Design and Architecture

Rootfield retains much of its original kominka architecture, making use of its spacious first floor as the living area and workspace where guests can hang out, do a bit of remote work, or just relax and enjoy the rustic atmosphere. There's even a traditional sunken hearth called irori with which you can arrange an authentic folk dinner, with permission and reservation from the host, of course. Speaking of food, there is a modern kitchen available but you'll also have the option to prepare food using a traditional stone oven.

For the sleeping area, the dormitory-style room on the second floor features an uncluttered minimalist setup. The bathroom's design has brutalist vibes, but it still keeps in with the rustic atmosphere of the property. On clear days, feel free to hang out on the deck patio, as it has a table where you can enjoy a meal and hammock for naps.

Kominka Yado Rootfield is self-catering , which means you can use the kitchen along with its provided appliances and cookware to whip up whatever dish you'd like to make. Aside from the equipment, Rootfield also provides opportunities to try local delicacies and traditional cooking methods. Guests can book the irori hearth for a traditional dinner wherein the kominka's host will prepare a selection of regional and seasonal ingredients to be grilled over the smoke and flame. There's also a stone stove called a kamado with which you can cook rice for a more authentic Yamanashi experience. Do note you'll have to chop your own firewood for the kamado.

While Kominka Yado Rootfield is not a wedding venue, the kominka provides a stay package for couples planning to celebrate their upcoming nuptials. Aside from the prospective bride and groom, a small entourage can also stay at Rootfield. The package also covers dinner and breakfast, as well as a seasonal outdoor activity.

For the photo op, guests have a lovely selection of where to shoot their wedding photos. These include Lake Sai, around Rootfield's property, and the forest and surrounding landmarks. The bride will also be provided a bridal dress for the shoot, so feel free to choose which style suits you best. Guests who prefer to have a shoot wearing traditional kimonos can also avail a lineup of rental garbs during reservation.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Being surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of Yamanashi also means plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Aokigahara Forest, also known as the Sea of Trees, is surrounded by many deep mysteries, making it a popular destination not just for nature lovers but also for fans of the macabre and the paranormal. But if you look past the notoriety, you'll discover many incredible locations such as the Wind Cave and Ice Cave. Aside from the forests, the other main attraction of Yamanashi are the Fuji Five Lakes, one of which is right next to Kominka Yado Rootfield. Saiko, or Lake Sai, is just a short walk down the street. The lakes are popular destinations for swimming and watersports during the warmer months, with nearby campgrounds such as Kangakuen providing equipment rentals.

The community where Rootfield is situated is also right next to Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, a reconstructed folk village with other kominka houses that serve as local establishments and museums.

Other Celebrations

Even though you'll have the whole kominka to yourselves, it would still be proper courtesy to inform the host if you're also planning to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with a small private event. They may agree, especially if you promise not to be rowdy and cause trouble or damage, though they might put some prohibitions in place just to make sure things go smoothly. Alternatively, they may instead recommend a nearby venue that is more suited to your plans.