Daisen Basecamp

The hosts made me feel welcome right away. This husband-and-wife team showed me around the huge place and brought cold water when I arrived with my suitcase after hauling it uphill. They were thoughtful, friendly, and happy to tell me about what was available nearby. Since the area is quiet and away from major traffic, restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores are limited. There isn't a grocery store nearby, and most local places close around 4:45 or 5 pm, so BaseCamp's Food Court is a really useful dinner option. The food is tasty, varied, and fairly priced at JPY1000 to JPY3000. The rotisserie chicken stood out, it takes three hours to roast. Meals come with a nice range of sides and pickles, plus fruit for dessert. There are free drinks all day, pour-over coffee for JPY200, and beer too. I loved the renovation work. The dorm bunks are made of wood and screened with shoji, with a careful, purposeful feel. The mattress had just the right support, and the pillows were shaped and supportive instead of flat. Guests also get a cubby and hangers. The private tatami rooms have double doors that help keep noise down. Laundry costs JPY800. You fill a bag, and everything is washed and dried together, so socks won't go missing. Walking sticks are kept by the door for the Mt. Daisen hike. I'd set out before noon, since the climb takes longer than you might expect. The mountain and trees were beautiful, and the cicadas' buzzing made my five-day stay feel peaceful and restorative. It's cooler on this side of Mt. Daisen, too. I couldn't find anything wrong, even after staying longer than most people apparently do. Well, some snoring did keep me awake, but that's part of any shared dorm room. I highly recommend this guest house.