Ochiai Village: A Living History Museum

Nestled in the heart of the Higashi-Iya Valley, Ochiai Village is a captivating step back in time. This mountainside hamlet, with homes constructed from the mid-Edo to early Showa periods (approximately 1700 to 1930), showcases a unique and sustainable farming system developed over centuries. Designated as a national preservation district in 2005, the village is built on a steep slope, with a nearly 400-meter difference between its highest and lowest points. Ochiai's origins are shrouded in legend, with tales of Heike clan refugees and pioneer settlers making their homes here. The villagers ingeniously crafted their homes and fields by stacking stones to create walls and terraces. Today, visitors can wander through the village, exploring the narrow footpaths and admiring the traditional thatched-roof houses, many of which are over 200 years old. Near the village center, the Nagaoka-ke Historic House, a restored 120-year-old thatched-roof farmhouse, is open to the public. A somewhat steep path leads to the tranquil Sansho Shrine, surrounded by ancient cedar trees. For a panoramic view of the entire village, head to the Ochiai Settlement Viewing Point on the opposite side of the valley. Several of the traditional houses have been modernized and are available for overnight stays, offering a truly immersive experience.