Hanare (Detached Cottage) - Japanese Encyclopedia

What’s a Hanare?

A hanare is a type of dwelling or room built off of a Japanese home.

These sorts of arrangements aren’t seen in apartment buildings or condos; rather, they refer to other residential-style buildings constructed on the same property as a detached house, or single family dwelling. In these cases, the house where the family resides is known as the omoya, the main or manor house.

In other words, this secondary structure is built away from the main building - in Japanese, the word ‘hanare’ means ‘separate from’.

Generally speaking, hanare are smaller and less equipped or outfitted than the main building in terms of household items. In all regards, it is less of a permanent residence overall when compared to the main house.

When the size of the family increases, a number of guests come for a visit, people want to build a studio or hobby space, or in such similar situations, many homeowners will construct or make use of a hanare.

If You’d Like to See a Home with a Hanare

At present, there aren’t that many homes that have a detached cottage to them. The vast majority of people live in apartment buildings and in urban areas, where there just isn’t the land space available to build such a thing.

If you are interested in seeing Japanese style residences, there are many historical former manor homes located throughout Japan. There are many manor homes with detached cottages that have been recognized as Important Cultural Properties, such as Oita prefecture’s Former Narikiyo Family Summer Villa, and Aichi prefecture’s Former Suzuki Family Residence, among others.

In places such as Kyoto, Nara, or anywhere you can find rows upon rows of historical buildings or a castle, it isn’t unusual to also find preserved historical old homes with hanare as well. If you have the opportunity to visit an omoya or former residence, make certain to look about for the hanare as well.

Visitors to Japan That Want to Try a Hanare

Visitors to Japan who want to experience a stay in a detached cottage, should first look into staying at ryokan (inns) or ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants).

When staying at a ryokan or ryotei, any accommodations that are not directly connected to the main building are known as hanare as well. If you would like to really get away and enjoy your time in very peaceful setting, then a stay in a hanare is probably best for you.

In order to stay in such an accommodation, you will of course require a reservation in advance. These lodgings are somewhat expensive when compared to standard inns, hotels and the like. If you are interested in this sort of stay while in Japan, then please make sure to research it more in depth beforehand.

Spend a Wonderful Time in Your Own Cottage

Many detached accommodations can be used by an individual or group of people for a certain time period, which makes them an idyllic place to stay on a short-term basis. This further appeals to the senses as these types of rooms are often traditional in design and style, and surrounded by Japanese gardens outside.

The price for this sort of lodging may be higher than that of a standard hotel or ryokan, but if you have the opportunity to stay in one, by all means make a reservation. You’re sure to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, seasonal garden views, and overall Japanese charm of your accommodation.