A Historic Thatched-Roof Kominka with Gardens and Rice Field in Yamagata
This property is a genuine, historic thatched-roof kominka (old folk house) located in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture. The main building is estimated to have been constructed in the late 18th century, featuring an authentic and impressive straw-thatched roof. The spacious grounds include a garden harmonizing with the surrounding satoyama landscape, a home vegetable garden, and one rice field. The site is within an urbanization control area, meaning operations like minpaku (private lodging) or ryokan are not permitted.
According to the agent's notes, the property includes several outbuildings: 1) A wooden, galvanized steel sheet-roofed warehouse (10.91 sqm, year of construction unknown), 2) A two-story earthen storehouse with a galvanized steel sheet roof (total floor area 96.32 sqm, built in 1917), and 3) A wooden, galvanized steel sheet-roofed shed (10.91 sqm, built in 1991). The property is equipped with electricity, public water supply, a septic tank (connection to public sewer is possible), and parking. Legal notes indicate it is within a sediment disaster warning zone and is subject to the Agricultural Land Law, Agricultural Promotion Area Law, and Yamagata Prefecture's Landscape Ordinance. The seller will remove any remaining items on the premises that are available for purchase prior to handover.
Tendo City is renowned for having Japan's highest production of La France pears and traditional shogi pieces. Adjacent to Yamagata City and Yamagata Airport, it has ranked first in Yamagata Prefecture for comfortable living, making it a popular choice for relocators. The area offers convenient access to daily necessities, with a York Benimaru supermarket approximately 3.5km away and a Seven-Eleven about 2.8km away. A fascinating local fact is that Tendo is the birthplace of the modern shogi piece manufacturing industry, with over 90% of Japan's professional-grade pieces crafted here by local artisans. The closest major landmark is the scenic Mogami River, one of Japan's three fastest-flowing rivers, famous for its traditional boat tours through dramatic gorges, located within a short drive.
