Kominka Night Camp

The Kominka Night Camp, held at the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum in Toyonaka, Osaka, offers a unique overnight experience inside historic Japanese folk houses. This special event allows participants to stay in buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, enjoy traditional meals by the hearth, and experience the enchanting atmosphere of nighttime in a preserved Edo-period village. Normally closed to overnight stays, these historic houses open their doors for this rare opportunity as part of the Kominka Festival.

The Japanese term kominka (古民家) translates to “traditional Japanese house” or “traditional folk house”.

The two-day festival allows visitors to experience, play, and learn from Japan’s traditional lifestyles. Activities include thatching and woodworking workshops, character shows, concerts, and the illuminated night museum with the Sky Lantern Ceremony. The festival highlights the charm and craftsmanship of traditional architecture, celebrating the enduring spirit of furusato (hometown) and its relevance in modern life. 

Event Highlights

Guests will camp inside two historic buildings:

• Hida Shirakawa House (Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property)

• Hyuga Shiiba House (Important Cultural Property)

Participants pitch small tents within the wooden interiors and enjoy dinner and breakfast around the irori (traditional hearth).

On Saturday 22 November, from sunset (around 16:50) until 20:00, seven folk houses on the museum grounds will be illuminated, creating a warm and dreamlike scene that transforms the village into a living painting of rural Japan.

The evening features a Sky Lantern Ceremony at the Shodoshima Farm Kabuki Stage, accompanied by live performances from orchestras and bands. Participants release lanterns into the night sky, creating a stunning and symbolic display of hope and connection under the autumn stars.

Participant Information:

• Age: Junior high school students and older (minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian)

• Capacity: 25 participants (5 groups of 3, 5 groups of 2)

How to Apply for Kominka Night Camp

Applications are accepted by email. Please include:

• Representative’s name, address, age, and phone number

• Names and ages of all participants

Send your application to: info@kominka-fes.jp. 

Application Period: October 27 (Mon) - November 7 (Fri), 2025. 

If applications exceed the participant limit, a lottery will be held. Successful applicants will be notified by email on Monday 10 November (scheduled).