Eco Windows

Our windows are double pane sealed units with black powder coated aluminum frames and sashes. They are certified by METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry) for their excellent overall heat transfer coefficient value (R-Value). These new guidelines were established in April 2008. Although, due to their size, they do get the highest rating, their location (southern and western sides), the amount of sunshine they will let in each day, and our heavy curtains at night will more than make up for their lower rating in the winter. In the summer, the ventilation system we have designed will eliminate the need for air conditioning on all but the hottest and most humid days. These windows will really pay off in the summer too!

Momiji no Sato ("Red Maple Country")

In spring 2006 our village decided to plant Red Maple trees all along the small river that runs through our area and supplies cold water from under Mount Fuji for all of our rice fields and gardens. The community gathered at the "Komisen" (Community Center) and drew numbers for which location to plant in and which 2 meter tall sapling to plant. This was a big event that brought the Mayor of Gotemba and other dignitaries for the ground breaking. Every household planted one tree with a family name plate on each tree. We are responsible for taking care of these trees. We planted a total of 135 trees that day! This created a 1km long area along the river that is commonly used as a walking and running trail. Last year the adjacent village added on another 100+ trees connected to our area and now almost 2km of the trail is lined with Momiji. This row of trees is about 110 meters to the south of our house. This year they are starting to fill in and will really make a nice view from our kitchen and master bedroom! Momiji (Red Maple Trees) line the river edge (along the white guard rail)