A Century-Old Kominka with Panoramic Views in Wakayama
This 100-year-old kominka (traditional Japanese house) offers a unique living experience perched on a hillside in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture. It boasts stunning views over Wakaura Bay, with the fishing port, Katano-hama Beach, and the famous Kimiidera Temple and Nagusa Mountain visible from the sea-facing rooms on the second floor. The property enjoys excellent sunlight and pleasant breezes carrying the scent of the sea and surrounding trees.
The house is a result of connecting two original homes, which is why it features two separate entrances. Essential and costly restoration work has already been completed, including a full roof replacement, ensuring the house is free from leaks. The renovation thoughtfully blends Asian aesthetics with traditional Japanese elements, using materials imported from Indonesia alongside locally sourced reclaimed timber. Original features like the latticework and frosted glass windows have been preserved. The interior includes retro touches, such as vintage floor tiles in the bathroom, and unique custom lighting made from old wood, utility poles, and roof tiles removed during the re-roofing.
The layout is spacious and versatile. The first floor comprises four original rooms reconfigured into two larger spaces using tatami, flooring, and an earthen floor (doma). The second floor features four rooms: spacious Japanese-style rooms and loft-style areas with sections of the floor removed to enhance light and airflow. The sea-facing rooms offer ocean views, while the mountain-side rooms are surrounded by greenery. There are three deep closets (oshiire) on the second floor, providing ample storage. The property is suitable for various uses, including a share house, minpaku (private lodging), or guesthouse. The kitchen has plenty of storage shelves, and the bathroom has space adjacent to it for installing a washbasin. There are two toilets: one with a simple water fixture and one pit toilet. Parking is currently available for one kei car, with the potential for more spaces on surrounding vacant lots.
The area is rich in natural attractions. A swimmable beach is just a 3-minute walk down the hill, and there are numerous fishing spots nearby. The famous Katano-hama Beach, selected for its beautiful sunsets, is about a 10-minute walk, while Hama-no-Miya Beach across the bay is popular for surfing. The previous owner operated a cafe here, and a collection of antique and vintage furniture, tableware, paintings, and miscellaneous items remain for the new owner's use, including three sets of furniture imported from Indonesia.
