Whether residences for the nobility and warrior classes, or for those engaged in trades and agriculture, Japanese traditional housing shares a number of similarities in design and construction techniques. Tall sloping roofs, overhanging eaves, engawa verandahs, rectangular-shaped rooms with sliding doors to allow flexibility and heat and ventilation management are defining characteristics. There are differences naturally – villas will often feature elegant tokonoma alcoves, elaborately decorated panels and sublimely rustic teahouses, while machiya provide a practical layout that seamlessly allows business to be run from the front while the family resides at the back and upstairs. Life in the farmhouse revolved around a central open irori hearth, which simultaneously warmed and allowed the family meal to be cooked, with steep thatched roofs to mitigate against snow buildup. We offer a guided experience with local experts to explain the style and design of Japan’s traditional residences.