Jul 9, 2019 - 1 min read

Ojika Island's "Kominka Stay"

The best way to experience "living" in Japan

By Victoria Simkovic

Community writer

There are 6 different 'kominka' to choose from with each having its own unique features

The "Kominka Project" took place 10 years ago. This was organized by a well-known 'Japanologist', Alex Kerr, who helped local authorities realize the cultural and historical value that these island’s 'kominka' have

Mr Kerr suggested removing some of the walls, lowering the floor level and installing more windows. This was to help create extra space and let in more daylight

The graceful space of these 'kominka' has been created with stylish furniture, like these chairs which were produced by a well known chair-making company located in Hida-Takayama

All of these 'kominka' have also been equipped with many modern conveniences such as air-conditioning and floor heating

The kitchen comes equipped with a high-tech induction stove, as well as other modern amenities

All of the necessary cooking utensils and cutlery are also provided so you can enjoy cooking and dining at your new home. To get the most out of your 'kominka' stay how about ordering some locally produced seasonal vegetable along with a rice set? This way you can enjoy your fresh veggies as well as support local farmers.

The concept of the "kominka project" is the skillful fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetic and modern comfort

Visitors are encouraged to have a break from their electronic gadgets and enjoy a tranquil time at a 'kominka'

The living rooms of 'kominka' all have wooden flooring, while the bedrooms are Japanese traditional tatami room style. Here instead of a bed you will be sleeping in a cozy futon, (Japanese style mattress)

The outside of this 'kominka' is as impressive as the inside. Most of these 'kominka' are surrounded by stonewalls that display a high level of craftsmanship

Do you love Japanese gardens that you see at temples? Well, you get to have one all for yourself

Walking up to a 'kominka' feels like you are entering the sacred grounds of a shrine

Some 'kominka' are former samurai residences

After a long day of island adventures you can restore your energy in this aromatic cypress wood bathtub

By staying at a 'kominka' you will be supporting the “Kominka Project”. This aims to preserve Japan’s valuable cultural heritage, while creating an eco-friendly community with Japan’s traditional culture as its foundation

In so many ways Ojika Island in Nagasaki Prefecture is a real hidden gem. The island's tranquil lifestyle, warm people, beautiful natural scenery and fresh sea food already make Ojika a very attractive travel destination. However, there is another "hidden" reason why this small island might take your Japan travel experience to a whole new other level. If you have ever heard the word 'kominka' then you might understand! The Japanese word 'kominka' literally means 'old house' where, it seems that over the last several years, there is an ever increasing 'kominka' boom in Japan. This boom can be seen when looking at the many 'kominka' cafes, 'kominka' guest houses and 'kominka' galleries opening up all over the country. Ojika Island with it's thousand years of history, is blessed with many old houses where travelers can experience "living" in one of them thanks to the "Kominka Project". This well known project was organized by a well-known "Japanologist", Alex Kerr.

You can reach Ojika Island via a night ferry from Hakata in Fukuoka. You can also take the day ferry from Sasebo in Nagasaki. Conveniently, there are also speed boats travelling from Sasebo reaching Ojika in only 90 minutes.