MINKA(thatched-roof-houses) are among the most unique and important historical assets of Japan. In spite of their historical value, many of these formerly popular homes were demolished and replaced by more modern structures during the "bubble era"(the years of inflated Japanese prosperity, namely 1986 through 1991).
Fortunately, because a segment of local governments had stubborn respect for its heritage and with foresight prevented destruction of things traditional, some of these beloved MINKA still exist today!