Denshoen

Denshoen (伝承園) is an open-air folk village that offers a vivid glimpse into the traditional rural life of Tono. The site features around a dozen well-preserved thatched-roof farmhouses, storehouses, and agricultural buildings that reflect the architecture and atmosphere of the past. At its heart is the original nanbuke-style farmhouse where folklorist Sasaki Kizen collected local oral traditions—stories that later formed the foundation of The Legends of Tono. A small on-site museum further explores Sasaki’s work and highlights the customs, tools, and everyday life of farmers in the region.

What makes Denshoen especially engaging are its interactive experiences. Visitors can try weaving on traditional looms, crafting items from straw, or simply relax while listening to seasonal storytelling performances. These hands-on activities offer a deeper appreciation of the skills and rhythms that once shaped daily life in rural Japan. Surrounded by the quiet beauty of Tono’s countryside, Denshoen provides more than just a cultural attraction—it offers a peaceful, immersive escape into Japan’s folkloric heritage.