The Story Behind Mitoya: Saving a Thatched-Roof Home

Mitoya opened as a private rental accommodation in 2018. Today, we would like to share with you the story of how this thatched-roof farmhouse was saved and brought back to life.

The previous owner lived in the city and treasured this home as a weekend retreat. He cared deeply for the house and spent peaceful time here in Miyama, surrounded by nature.

However, after he passed away, the property was inherited by his wife. Sadly, she did not have a driver’s license and was unable to travel to Miyama. Over time, it became difficult for her to maintain the house.

The thatched roof had reached the point where a complete re-thatching was necessary. On the back side of the roof, grass had begun to grow, and leaks had already started.

We knew that if nothing was done, this precious thatched-roof house would eventually be lost. In order to protect it, we proposed a long-term lease agreement so that we could take responsibility for its care.

As professional thatchers, we made the major investment of re-thatching the entire roof ourselves. We also improved the surrounding landscape by planting grass in the field in front of the house, creating a more welcoming and comfortable environment for future guests.

The owner was truly delighted with the transformation. The local community also expressed their happiness, saying that the house had been close to becoming abandoned, but was now always beautifully maintained—and most importantly, that lights were once again shining from the windows at night.

Our goal has always been to make thatched-roof houses something that can be shared and enjoyed by many people. Mitoya is one of the most successful examples of that idea becoming reality.

By staying here, our guests help support the preservation of this house, and our work as well. Your visit is not only a stay—it is part of the effort to keep this heritage alive.

The name “Mitoya” carries special meaning. It combines the name of the late owner with the word “Miyama,” symbolizing the continuation of the original owner’s spirit and love for this home.

Mitoya is not simply a place to stay. It is a living cultural heritage, protected by the wishes of many people, and passed forward into the future.