Lake Saiko (Iyashi no Sato thatched village)
About this viewpoint
Iyashi no Sato Nenba is a recreation of the original thatched roof village that stood on the shores of Lake Saiko before a 1966 typhoon. Twenty restored kominka now host craft workshops, tea rooms and exhibitions, with Fuji rising directly behind the village.
What is a kominka
Kominka are traditional Japanese farmhouses with thatched gassho or hipped roofs, post and beam frames and earthen kitchens. The Saiko village is one of the rare places you can step inside many in one stop.
Slow morning
Most photographers chase sunrise at Oishi Park. Saiko in late morning is the quiet alternative, with workshops opening around 10:00 and Fuji light still good through noon.
Photographer tips
- Buy the village pass at the entry gate, it covers all houses.
- Try the indigo dyeing workshop, a 90 minute hands on session.
- Combine with the Saiko Bat Cave for an afternoon natural history detour.
Getting there
Practical info
¥500 adult
Free lot at the village entrance.
Gravel paths between houses. Some kominka have steps at the entrance.
35 mm prime or 24 to 70 mm zoom.
Where to eat nearby
- Houtou Fudou Saiko branch
Five minutes from the village by car.
Best rail pass for Lake Saiko (Iyashi no Sato thatched village)
These are the rail passes that actually reach Lake Saiko (Iyashi no Sato thatched village). Buy your pass before you fly, then collect it at any major Japanese airport or city station.
Mt Fuji Pass (1 to 3 days)Recommended
Unlimited Fujikyu Retro Bus and sightseeing bus rides around the Fuji Five Lakes plus discounts at viewpoints, ropeways and Fuji-Q Highland.
JR Tokyo Wide Pass (3 days)
Direct Fuji Excursion limited express from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko plus all JR East lines around Tokyo. The cheapest way to reach this viewpoint from Tokyo on rails.
Japan Rail Pass (7 days)
Use it if you are also visiting Kyoto. Covers the Fuji Excursion through the JR East section and the full Tokaido Shinkansen.
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