
Fukiya Copper Mine Ruins
A historic village famous for its unique Bengara red pigment coating traditional houses, offering a nostalgic and tranquil atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Nostalgic ambiance

Fukiya Copper Mine Ruins
Best Time
Nostalgic ambiance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic village famous for its unique Bengara red pigment coating traditional houses, offering a nostalgic and tranquil atmosphere.
"This town truly has a charming, nostalgic atmosphere, as if you've slipped back in time."

🚗 Getting Around
Consider the free electric tuk-tuk service for a unique village tour and explanations.
⏳ Allow ample time
This village is small; an hour or two is enough for a quick visit, but an overnight stay is recommended.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bengara-Coated Streets
Throughout the village
Wander through streets lined with traditional houses painted in a striking reddish-brown pigment.

Fukiya Old School
Central village
Explore a beautifully preserved old schoolhouse, offering a glimpse into Japan's past educational system.

Local Cafes and Shops
Main street
Enjoy local refreshments and find unique souvenirs in the charming, small eateries and shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Red Hue
Plan for a Relaxed Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Getting Around
Consider the free electric tuk-tuk service for a unique village tour and explanations.
⏳ Allow ample time
This village is small; an hour or two is enough for a quick visit, but an overnight stay is recommended.
📸 Capture the Red
The distinctive Bengara pigment is the star. Get your camera ready for unique photo opportunities.
🗣️ Language Support
Locals often speak English well and are welcoming to tourists.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Getting Around
Consider the free electric tuk-tuk service for a unique village tour and explanations.
⏳ Allow ample time
This village is small; an hour or two is enough for a quick visit, but an overnight stay is recommended.
📸 Capture the Red
The distinctive Bengara pigment is the star. Get your camera ready for unique photo opportunities.
🗣️ Language Support
Locals often speak English well and are welcoming to tourists.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fukiya Copper Mine Ruins is praised for its unique Bengara-red architecture and nostalgic, tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful step back in time. While some find it lacking in amenities and potentially showing signs of wear, others highlight the excellent local service and the charm of its preserved historical sites.
"Did a day trip to Fukiya Furusato village today, which is known for its distinctive red ‘Bengara’ pigment coating on their houses.
However, the town seemed to have lost it’s vibrancy, with the years setting and signs of wear and tear starting to show.
Apart from a small handful of cafe/eateries and souvenir shops, there isn’t much other amenities to pique the interests of a general traveller, save for those who appreciate historical culture.
It’s a quaint and quiet little town which can be covered in an hour or two. Good as a day trip visit that’s along the way but probably not worth detouring or specially planning over for."
Shingo
"This was best place if you want to get kyoto vibe with less people around it takes 1hr+ from okayama station. They can speak english well too and welcoming tourist
The place, food, drink, and even the toilet are nice.
Highly recomend to support them to keep the place and the history of place"
Asri Maharani
"I got to ride in a free electric tuk-tuk-like vehicle, and as we headed further up the sloping road, the driver gave us all sorts of explanations. It was wonderful service. This town truly has a charming, nostalgic atmosphere, as if you’ve slipped back in time."
東出雅紘
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fukiya is located north of Okayama City. It takes over an hour by train from Okayama Station. While the village itself is small, getting there can be inconvenient, so plan your transport accordingly.
Public transport is available, but the journey can be lengthy. Consider checking train and bus schedules in advance to plan your trip efficiently.
Driving is an option, and it might offer more flexibility in reaching the village. Parking availability should be considered, especially during peak seasons.
While not explicitly mentioned, local services like the electric tuk-tuk offer explanations, acting as a form of informal guided tour.
Walking is the primary way to explore the village. The free electric tuk-tuk service is also a great way to get around and learn about the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village itself is generally free. However, specific attractions within the village, like the old schoolhouse, might have separate admission fees.
The village is accessible throughout the day. Individual shops and attractions may have their own operating hours, so it's best to check locally if you have specific places in mind.
No, the iconic Bengara-colored streets are part of the public village and do not require an entrance fee.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire locally or check official tourism websites if available.
While the village is accessible, visiting at night might limit your ability to explore shops and attractions. However, some travelers recommend visiting in the evening for a tranquil experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique Bengara-colored streets, visit the Fukiya Old School, enjoy local food and drinks at cafes, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.
Yes, it's a good option for a day trip, especially if you're traveling from Okayama. However, some visitors suggest an overnight stay to fully appreciate its charm.
The entire village is photogenic, especially the streets lined with Bengara-colored houses. The old schoolhouse also offers great photographic opportunities.
The village's history is evident in its architecture and preserved buildings like the old schoolhouse. The tuk-tuk driver also provides explanations.
Expect a quaint, quiet, and nostalgic atmosphere, as if you've stepped back in time. It's a peaceful escape from bustling cities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are a small handful of cafes and eateries offering local food and drinks. While not extensive, they provide a pleasant dining experience.
You can expect local Japanese cuisine and refreshments. The reviews mention that the food and drinks are nice.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's recommended to inquire at the eateries directly about vegetarian or vegan choices.
Bringing your own food is generally acceptable in public areas, but it's always good practice to be mindful of cleanliness and dispose of waste properly.
While specific recommendations are scarce, the reviews suggest that the available cafes and eateries offer a good experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the unique red hue of the buildings. Evenings offer a tranquil, atmospheric setting.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be respectful of private residences and any specific signage indicating no-photography zones.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the overall village views.
Drone usage is often restricted in residential areas and historical sites. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The distinctive Bengara pigment creates a unique color palette, and the preserved traditional architecture offers a nostalgic and visually appealing subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that Fukiya is a very quiet and traditional village. While there are a few cafes, extensive kid-friendly activities or playgrounds are not a feature. It's best suited for families who appreciate history and a peaceful environment, rather than those seeking high-energy entertainment. Consider it as a cultural stop on a larger itinerary.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are cafes and shops, you can manage costs by packing your own snacks or opting for simpler refreshments. The main expense will likely be transportation to reach the village. An overnight stay might also be more affordable compared to larger cities, offering a chance to experience the tranquility at a lower cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) to capture the most dramatic light on the red buildings. The quiet nature of the village means you can often find unobstructed shots. Don't forget to explore the Fukiya Old School for interior and exterior photography. Consider a versatile lens to capture both wide village vistas and close-up details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Bengara
This aesthetic is a major draw for visitors seeking a glimpse into Japan's past. The preservation efforts ensure that this unique visual character is maintained, offering photographers and history enthusiasts alike a truly special experience. The consistency of the color across many buildings creates a powerful visual impact that is rarely found elsewhere. The sheer saturation of the red is captivating.
While the village is quiet, the Bengara houses provide a constant visual feast. It’s this singular characteristic that sets Fukiya apart and makes it a memorable destination. The pigment not only beautifies the village but also tells a story of its industrial heritage and local craftsmanship.
Experiencing Fukiya's Nostalgia
The Fukiya Old School is a prime example of this preserved history. It offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the lives of students and teachers from a bygone era. Coupled with the unique Bengara-colored houses, the entire village contributes to an immersive historical experience. The free electric tuk-tuk service, with its explanatory driver, further enhances this feeling by providing local context and stories.
For those who appreciate historical culture and a tranquil environment, Fukiya is highly recommended. It's a place to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of preserved heritage. The quiet streets and traditional buildings create a deeply calming and evocative atmosphere.
Navigating Fukiya: Transport and Amenities
Once in the village, getting around is relatively easy. The main streets are walkable, allowing you to explore at your own pace. A unique and convenient option is the free electric tuk-tuk service. This not only helps you cover more ground but also provides an opportunity to learn about the village from the driver, who often shares interesting explanations.
Regarding amenities, Fukiya has a small selection of cafes and souvenir shops. While it might not offer the extensive dining and shopping options of larger tourist destinations, these establishments provide a pleasant experience for refreshments and local goods. The reviews indicate that the food and toilets are well-maintained. The village's quiet nature means that amenities are limited, so it's advisable to be prepared for a more relaxed and less commercialized experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit