What is Rural Japan?
Based in the tranquil satoyama landscapes of Ena and Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture, Rural Japan invites you to step off the beaten path and into the living heart of traditional Japan. Beyond famous tourist sights, Satoyama represents a timeless way of life—where pristine mountains, fertile valleys, and human traditions exist in complete harmony.
We invite you to experience not a stage set for tourists, but the authentic, vibrant pulse of rural Japan.
Why Travel With Us
· Authentic Local Immersion: we work directly with local keepers of tradition in Ena, Nakatsugawa, and surrounding areas to offer genuine cultural encounters—not staged tourist performances.
· Expert-Led & Intellectually Stimulating: supervised by experts in sustainability, environment, and regional heritage, our journeys offer deep insights and fieldwork-style discoveries.
· Environmentally & Socially Responsible: we design eco-conscious tours that respect local ecosystems, support small community economies, and welcome travelers with diverse dietary and cultural needs.
Backed by Expertise and Living Tradition
“On this journey, you will savor breathtaking nature while interacting with locals—experiencing the authentic, sustainable life of Japan. Come to Ena and Nakatsugawa, and discover one of the world’s most truly sustainable ways of living.”
— Prof. Masao Takano, Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University
The Gateway to the Samurai Road: Ena & Nakatsugawa
Flanking the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) and neighboring the famed post towns of Magome and Tsumago, Ena and Nakatsugawa are rich in pristine forests, historic post stations, and centuries-old agricultural terraces.
Before or after walking the ancient trail, venture into these rolling hills to touch the quiet, profound heartbeat of traditional Japan.
Our Mission: Reweaving the Future
Rural landscapes across Japan face the quiet threat of depopulation. Yet, the ancient wisdom of Satoyama—living in balance with nature—holds vital answers for our modern world.
We created Rural Japan to bridge global travelers with local communities. By stepping into our fields, sharing meals, and engaging in deep dialogue, your presence brings new energy to this land, helping us preserve its priceless heritage for generations to come.
“Connecting dots into lines.
Weaving lines into a fabric that drifts like clouds over these timeless mountains.”
Meet Our Team of Rural Japan
Ayami Sato － Founder & CEO
Born and raised in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture, Ayami grew up deeply connected to the region's forestry heritage through her grandfathers, both local foresters. Her perspective was shaped early on through a passion for poetry and a solo journey across Africa in her early twenties. With 9 years of experience managing an e-commerce business, she brings a solid background in digital marketing, customer relations, and business operations. Returning to her roots, she founded Rural Japan Co., Ltd., a specialized travel agency dedicated to authentic satoyama experiences. Living a lifestyle in harmony with nature in Ena, she guides the company's vision, tour curation, and global communications, seamlessly connecting local culture with international travelers.
Keiko Katsuno
－ Certified Travel Service Supervisor & Regional OperationsBorn and raised in Agi, Nakatsugawa City, Keiko brings decades of deep hospitality experience to Rural Japan. Beginning her career as a scenic bus guide, she spent years guiding travelers across Japan while raising four children. Driven by a desire to support her home region, she later transitioned into community development in Kasagi Town, Ena City, leading local revitalization initiatives. As a Certified Domestic Travel Service Supervisor and Tour Conductor, Keiko combines rigorous operational safety with a passionate, heart-led knowledge of local satoyama culture. She lives in Nakatsugawa with her three-generation family of seven and two dogs.
Prof. Masao Takano
ー Advisor & Executive Sustainability SupervisorProfessor at the Nagoya University Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Masao is a leading authority on sustainable community development. Combining rigorous academic research with hands-on practice, he advocates for community-based tourism as a vital pathway for rural revitalization. He specializes in slow-paced, expert-guided walks through mountain villages, translating complex environmental and cultural history into engaging, accessible insights. Practicing what he preaches, Masao lives in a restored traditional farmhouse in Ena City, embracing a self-sustained lifestyle centered around a wood-fired bath and stove.
We are here to assist.
Whether you have questions about our seasonal journeys or are interested in a bespoke journey to this region,
we are happy to provide the information you need.