Chiiori
A 300-year-old thatched-roof farmhouse in one of Japan's three great secluded valleys, restored by author Alex Kerr.
About this stay
Chiiori — the 'House of the Flute' — is a 300-year-old thatched-roof farmhouse perched high above the Iya Valley, one of Japan's three most secluded regions. Discovered and restored by writer Alex Kerr in 1973, it became the inspiration for his seminal book 'Lost Japan.' Now operated by the Chiiori Trust NPO, staying here means sleeping in a piece of living cultural heritage: two irori sunken hearths for cooking, a hinoki cypress bath, and nothing between you and the mountain valley but centuries of silence.
What this place offers
Best for
Getting here
Train to Oboke Station + taxi 50min
Where you'll be
Guest Reviews
The photos don't do it justice. Highly recommend staying here. Wish we booked more nights. :) The drive to Chiiori is not for the faint of heart but adds to the experience. I have strict dietary requirements due to chronic illness and the owner accommodated them perfectly.
If you want to experience an authentic farm house, but a luxurious experience at it, this is perfect. Natural water from the mountain, quiet, warm, beautiful, elegant. It is like staying at a museum. Chiiori is a landmark, the second oldest house in Iya. Unforgettable memories will be made during your stay.
Fifteen years ago I came here when driving through Shikoku on a motorbike, I came unexpectedly and was welcomed by tea and invited to dinner which we cooked together with the volunteers i was allowed to stay for a reasonable price, the house was in its old condition. Today came by wanting to just show the place famous from the book to my wife. I was coldly told by some staffer that without a reservation we weren't even allowed inside the house. I see he outside has been replaced with modern glass housing and gas heating put inside. The price to stay is also doubled. It's become a gentrified expensive hotel. I guess everyone has to make living, but the soul of the place feels lost. Fortunately the old house on down the hill is now a cafe and you can experience an authentic interior (plus TV, it this is Japan...)
Nice and cozy place to stay. The food is great and the view is magnificent.
Luxury guesthouse in a Traditional farm house
Reviews sourced from Google
Up to $300/night depending on season
Not affiliated with this property. Prices may vary.
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