Chiiori

Chiiori refers to a traditional Japanese farmhouse located in the Iya Valley of Shikoku, Japan. The name, meaning "house of the flute," was given to the house by American Japanologist Alex Kerr, who purchased and renovated the property in the 1970s.

Chiiori is notable for its architectural significance as a well-preserved example of a minka, a type of traditional Japanese vernacular architecture common in rural areas. These farmhouses are characterized by their steeply pitched thatched roofs, earthen walls, and open floor plans.

Kerr's renovation and subsequent use of Chiiori as a retreat and cultural center have played a significant role in promoting tourism and preserving traditional architecture in the Iya Valley. The house has become a symbol of sustainable living, cultural preservation, and the revitalization of rural communities in Japan. It serves as a guesthouse and a venue for workshops and events focusing on traditional Japanese arts and crafts.

While the term "Chiiori" specifically refers to Kerr's farmhouse, it is often used more generally to evoke the image of traditional farmhouses and rural life in the Iya Valley. The house has been featured in numerous publications and documentaries, further cementing its place as an important cultural landmark.