Hotaruan Kominka Lodge

Hotaruan is a rare heritage property in Miyama, currently operating as an accommodation facility, originally constructed over 150 years ago and officially designated as a National Tangible Cultural Property.

Situated on approximately 5,000m² of land, the residence retains its traditional thatched roof, irori hearth, and timber structure while incorporating modern amenities such as a cypress bath, sauna, and fully equipped kitchen. The layout provides two Western-style bedrooms, a Japanese tatami room, and updated facilities to support both residential and accommodation use.

With its historic designation, architectural authenticity, and expansive setting, Hotaruan represents a distinctive opportunity for cultural preservation combined with income-generating potential in Japan’s growing heritage tourism sector. 

Main House – Structure

• Keyaki (zelkova) Main Pillar: Diameter 21.5 cm (standard modern homes use 10.5 cm)

• Irori Hearth: Usable for grilling, heating, or gatherings

• Wood-Fired Stove: Available for cooking and heating

• Western-Style Rooms: Fitted with beds for comfortable use

• Earthen Walls (Tsuchikabe): Traditional clay and straw construction, offering durability and insulation

• Roof: Thatched, constructed with 7–9 layers of kaya reed; lifespan 40–50 years, currently renewed approx. 9 years ago

Main House – Facilities

• Multipurpose Space: Glass-enclosed, can fully open; suitable for garden parties

• Kitchen: Modern, suitable for use by professional/visiting chefs

• Bathing Facilities: Cypress bath, sauna, and cold-water bath (outdoor bath possible)

• Washroom: Uses antique furniture (restored for use as sink/vanity)

• Outdoor Toilet: Traditional placement outside main building (inherited design practice)

• Storehouse (Dozo): Two-story kura-style storehouse

Outdoor Features

• Well: Water source available (though municipal supply is connected)

• Garden: Seasonal beauty — cherry blossoms in spring, crape myrtle in summer; moss carpet walkable even barefoot

• Two Courtyards: Visible from inside the house

• Cave Cellar: Natural refrigerator, maintains stable temperature year-round

• Pizza Oven: Usable for outdoor cooking/parties

• Warazuka-no-Michi (straw ridge path): Ideal for morning walks

• Kodakara Jizo (Child-giving deity): Local stone statue, traditionally prayed to for children

• Large Yamazakura (mountain cherry tree): Magnificent bloom every spring; photo resource

• Fruit Trees: Ume (plum), yuzu, persimmon, kaki; annual harvest possible

Building size: 200 m²

Land Area: 6625.60m²