A one-hour drive north from central Kyoto City, Hanase is a mountain village of about 125 full-time residents, most living along a 9km stretch of river valleys in both minka and more contemporary housing. With less farmable land, Hanase’s economy was traditionally lumbering, floating huge trees downriver into Kyoto City. The area is extraordinarily beautiful year-round, with cooler summers and spectacular springs and autumns, though it’s also quite cold from mid-December-February, sometimes with enough snowfall that you’ll want a vehicle with 4-wheel drive. The community – composed of four sub-villages (Harachi, Yamasu, Ofuse, and Bessho) is friendly and supportive, particularly for families with small children.
Public School – daycare, elementary, junior high school
Police – koban, with one full-time officer
Fire Department – yes, centrally located
High-Speed Internet Access – yes (multiple options)
Cellphone Reception – excellent for most areas; reception varies depending upon carrier
What type of housing generally available? – minka, modern houses, log cabins for sale & for rent
Banking – ATMs 20 minutes away by car
Grocery Shopping – None. Nearest grocery stores (Sundaiko, Gohonmatsu) 30 minutes by car, though several weekly delivery services widely used here (Sundaiko, Kyoto Coop/Seikyo).
Convenience Stores – None. Nearest ones 30 minutes by car.
Medical Services – In- and outpatient senior care, part-time clinic within village; nearest hospital 30 minutes by car (Kyoto Municipal Keihoku Hospital)
Plusses:
- Downtown Kyoto City is convenient, about one-hour by car
- Excellent elementary/junior high school, with average of 4-6 students per class
- Beautiful nature, clean air and water, a quiet and peaceful environment
- Many traditional houses available here, as well as surrounding villages (Hirogawara, Kuta, Kuroda)
Minuses:
- Roughly 50% of winters include periods of heavy snow, making commuting into city difficult 5-7 days/year; you’ll need snow tires and want 4-wheel drive
- Limited bus service into city
- Nearest hospital 30 minutes by car
For More Information please contact Stuart at stuart4th@yahoo.com
