by Judy Jean Kwon
Visit this whimsical Swiss-like village nestled in the Yamanashi forest in Japan with your child, where you can explore the rich history and enjoy a variety of activities.
Nestled in the lush hills of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, lies a hidden gem that transports visitors straight to Europe: Kiyosato Moegi-no-Mura. This enchanting village offers a perfect setting for quality time with loved ones, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway in a charming German-style town filled with small Swiss chalets overlooking Mt. Fuji.
A Stroll Through the Enchanted Village of Moegi-no-Murae
I was looking for a fun Halloween activity to do with my kid when I came across an ad for a festival of artisans and Halloween fun in the mountains of Yamanashi. The drive up the winding mountain roads set the stage for our adventure. We arrived around 2:30 PM at Moegi-no-Murae village in the small town of Kiyosato, just as the festival was starting to wind down. Thankfully, there were still stragglers, food trucks, and shops open to explore.
As we wandered through the cobblestone pathways lined with charming shops and cafés, I was immediately captivated by the architecture, reminiscent of a Hansel and Gretel fairy tale. The buildings, like the Swiss Alps, were adorned with pumpkins and fall decorations, creating a picturesque setting that felt almost magical. To add to the charm, proud Japanese dog owners paraded their pets, many of them dressed in adorable costumes that outshone my own attire! It was delightful to see several sets of dogs dressed as triplets, and I couldn’t help but join the crowd as we oo’d and aa’d at their cuteness.
Discovering Local Crafts, Shops and Food
There was a wooden horse carousel perched on a hill just behind the main building with many small chalet-style shops littered throughout an enchanted forest. The breathtaking mountain views surrounding it made the experience even more memorable.
Kiyosato's Moegi-no-Mura is not just about stunning views; it’s also a vibrant hub for local artisans. I explored shops showcasing beautifully crafted pottery, delicate textiles, and intricate woodwork with an all-year-round Christmas shop. Many of these shops seem to offer workshops where you can participate in crafting. ( I couldn't stop thinking about my late mother-in-law who obsessed over Christmas all year round. She would have loved it here.) We can't forget about the cats. There was a shop dedicated to all things cats which was a delight for me.
A highlight was a whimsical music box shop and museum called "Hall of Halls," filled with antique dolls and music boxes collected from around the world. The enchanting melodies added a touch of spooky eeriness to the atmosphere, perfect for Halloween.
Of course, no visit is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The village features German-style restaurants with charming Swiss architecture, serving delicious sausages and freshly baked apple pie made with locally sourced ingredients, making it a truly delectable experience—like stepping into Europe right in the heart of Japan.
Another gem is a restaurant-brewery called 'The Rock,' steeped in history that dates back to the pioneering days of the town that took me down a rabbit hole of the past.
History of Kiyosato and the American
Dr. Paul Rusch was born in Indiana and raised in Kentucky. He first arrived in Japan in 1925 to assist the YMCA with reconstruction efforts in Tokyo and Yokohama after the Great Kantō earthquake. As the Pacific War began, Dr. Rusch returned to America, only to come back later as a member of the GHQ with the mission of reviving Japan.
Focusing on the mountainous regions and farming villages, he started his work at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains. Kiyosato, with its high elevation, struggled to produce rice and faced significant living challenges. During the post-war food crisis, residents were said to have survived by consuming tree bark. This plight inspired Dr. Rusch to believe that if such a struggling area could prosper, then so could the rest of Japan. He envisioned developing a dairy farming industry and cultivating vegetables suited to the climate, leading him to establish a model plantation in Kiyosato, Seisan Ryu, with ranches, restaurants, shops, cottages, campsites. Dr. Paul Rusch dedicated his life to its development. His unwavering commitment and nurturing spirit earned him the affectionate title of the beloved "grandpa" of Kiyosato, as he tirelessly worked to uplift the area and its people.
In 1971, Ueji Funaki opened the coffee shop "ROCK" in Kiyosato, when the national highways were still gravel roads. Growing up under the influence of Dr. Rusch, Funaki initially started ROCK as a small shack. Despite facing setbacks, including fires and economic downturns, he transformed ROCK into a multi-generational brewery with a rich history and community.
You can also visit Paul Rusch Memorial Museum" at "Seisan Ryo", Rusch's campground with a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji, which is only a short walk.
Where Dreams Come True
Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, the village offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. The vibrant foliage in autumn was a breathtaking backdrop, adding a splash of color to the serene landscape.
Kiyosato Moegi-no-Mura is truly a magical place that captures European charm with the heart and soul of Japanese resilience and community, nestled in the picturesque countryside. Whether you’re looking to explore artisanal shops, savor delicious food, relax in nature, or discover the past, this village has something for everyone.
It’s a place where the West meets the East and creates a unique village where magic happens against all odds. A look at the past makes me think what a wonderful time it must have been to pioneer Kiyosato. If you find yourself in Yamanashi Prefecture, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this enchanting destination, full of spirit. It’s a place where memories are made, and dreams are woven into the fabric of the forest.
A Stroll Through the Enchanted Village
Discovering Local Crafts and Flavors
History of Kiyosato and the American
#japan #travel #yamanashi #kiyosato #halloween #crafts #history #moeginomurae #paulrusch #uejifunaki #shops #campgrounds #mtfuji
Comments