Minka is a type of traditional Japanese house that people used to live in a long time ago. Minka houses are made out of all-natural materials like wood, bamboo and rice straw. They have big roofs that are sloped down to protect people from the rain and snow. Minkas often have sliding doors that can be opened to let in fresh air and sunlight. You might hear people say that minkas are "eco-friendly" because they don't use a lot of electricity to stay cool or warm. Today, not a lot of people live in minka houses anymore, but many minkas are still preserved and used for cultural activities and historic museums.