Cafe & Guest House sofarii - Hostel

The food was plentiful and well-balanced, and we were very satisfied. Since going out seemed like a hassle, we chose the plan with two meals, even though most other guests seemed to be staying overnight. The bath water felt soft, and we took three baths. You can park a motorcycle in the covered lot, and for this price they even carried our luggage to the room. The manga section has Bali Den, Initial D, and Wangan MIDNIGHT, so car and motorcycle enthusiasts might enjoy it too. The staff are always ready to help, and the ryokan is very customer-friendly. We picked Taiya Ryokan as an inexpensive place while touring around Mt. Fuji.

I parked my motorcycle in the covered lot behind the inn, and there’s a washing machine and a large drying rack on the second floor, which makes it a great stop on a tour. I arrived on May 13, 2025, at a place I’d wanted to stay for a long time. It was Shimizu Jirocho’s regular lodging. Photos of Jirocho and his family are displayed, and there’s a large wooden plaque at reception handwritten by Yamaoka Tesshu, who was close friends with Jirocho. The staff were very kind and helpful. Baths and toilets are shared, but if that’s fine with you, I think it’s a comfortable inn. The bath was refreshing with a fizzy drink, and breakfast was delicious.

I went with my wife and 20-year-old daughter after my usual hotel had raised its prices tenfold, seemingly ignoring Japanese customers to cater to inbound tourists. The building is old, as you’d expect from a long-established hotel, but we were extremely satisfied. The thoughtful service, delicious and generous breakfast, sulfur-scented shower, and deep bath that let you soak up to your shoulders were all wonderful. In the morning I went up to the rooftop and was blown away by the beautiful view of Mount Fuji. Even though they were incredibly busy, the staff made time to talk with us and paid close attention to details. I learned a lot from them. It made me think about what genuine Japanese hospitality should be, and inspired me to apply it in my own work. Thank you so much for looking after us. Next time I’ll come with my motorcycle friends on a touring trip.

It’s old all around, but well maintained and there were no problems during my stay. Toilets and baths are shared. This historic inn has been operating for hundreds of years, and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes retro places.