Hono Gurashi no Niwa: New Rural Life Simulation Announced for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Hono Gurashi no Niwa, the latest title from the creative minds behind the celebrated Yomawari series, was officially announced during today's Japanese Nintendo Direct.

Exclusive to the Japanese stream and not featured in other regional presentations, Hono Gurashi no Niwa is set for release on both Nintendo Switch and the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, with a launch date scheduled for July 30, 2026, in Japan. Developed under the direction of Yu Mizokami—best known for his role as game designer on Yomawari—Hono Gurashi no Niwa offers a deeply immersive rural life simulation experience.

Taking cues from classic lifestyle sims while infusing the unique mood and charm familiar to fans of Yomawari, the game places players in the tranquil setting of Kagatsu Village.

As the seasons flow and the landscape transforms, players embark on a nostalgic journey into countryside living. In Hono Gurashi no Niwa, players can customize their experience by engaging in traditional rural activities such as farming, raising livestock, fishing, and hunting.

Interaction with the villagers is at the heart of the experience, offering countless opportunities to deepen bonds and build lasting relationships, all accentuated by the peaceful rhythms of village life.

The game also empowers players to design their own home, starting from a detached house with an adjoining garden and expanding into a personalized living space through hand-crafted furniture and decorations. "We wanted to capture the simple joys and Changing landscape of rural life," said Yu Mizokami in an official statement shared alongside the announcement.

"Players will find comfort in everyday routines and the sense of community that defines Kagatsu Village." Key features highlighted in the reveal include: - Detailed seasonal changes transforming the look and feel of Kagatsu Village - Immersive farming, animal husbandry, fishing, and hunting mechanics - Deep social interactions with villagers, enriching the simulation aspect - Extensive home customization with options to craft and arrange furniture The debut announcement trailer showcases the game’s serene art style and offers a glimpse into the daily life awaiting players. Hono Gurashi no Niwa will be available on both the current Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, expanding its reach to new hardware while maintaining accessibility for existing fans.

Further details regarding its global release and availability on the Nintendo eShop are yet to be confirmed.

For now, Japanese fans can look forward to exploring Kagatsu Village when the title arrives on July 30, 2026—cementing yet another milestone collaboration for Yu Mizokami and his development team following their critical success with Yomawari. Stay tuned to official Nintendo Direct updates for more information as the release date approaches.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Japan Switch 2 Switch Hono Gurashi no Niwa Nintendo Direct Yu Mizokami Yomawari Kagatsu Village