Originally Posted by LapLap

Nihon minka en... tacky?

If they started offering regional specialities to suit each of the houses, yes, that would be a good way to start the process of getting it there.

Very, very obvious you've never been. It isn't like the open air Edo Tokyo Architectural Museum (not that I would call this museum tacky either), it's much more intimate and special than that. Has more of the feel of a social club for those who are passionate about folklore, crafts and traditional freemasonry and carpentry, there must be an army of intensely interested and motivated volunteers who keep this place maintained and running. The koto/cello/keyboard concert led by Rin Nakashima in one of the houses - blisteringly hot day yet the performance was caressed by cool breezes and punctuated by birdsong - one of the most serene performances I've ever been to, my daughter was spellbound. Our golden week visit was particularly special as there were more mingei enthusiasts there than usual to share their expertise, the park was the busiest I've ever seen but it was very far from crowded.
First thing my daughter did on her return was pull out her Japanese folk tale books and stories, she seemed really pleased that the scenarios they are set in were something she could better relate to.

If you want tacky, go to the takoyaki museum and the adjacent Ye olde Edo reconstruction out in Decks, Odaiba (shudder).