Guesthouse UNILA

It's been almost a year, and I still think about our stay at Guesthouse UNILA. My partner and I came here last summer after spending time in Tokyo, and the quiet was such a welcome change. I loved the lush scenery and rustic feel as soon as we arrived. Our room was simple, clean, and well organized, and the food was phenomenal, hearty, and comforting after a long day. Sumio and his wife picked many ingredients from their backyard and cooked fresh meals each day. We speak English and know very little Japanese, so we were concerned about communicating so far from the city. Locals were much more willing to chat and get to know us than we'd expected. Sumio was attentive, kind, and accommodating, and gave us plenty of suggestions for places to see nearby. We also learned he runs the Ichirino Illuminations, along with many other ventures in the Hakusan area. You can feel his big heart in all the little details around the guesthouse. I wish I could give this six stars. Thank you for everything, Sumio. I'll remember this trip for the rest of my life.

I showed up without knowing the morning menu listed on the official website is only offered in winter, and they didn't serve it. That seasonal restriction wasn't written anywhere. I was left wondering what that was all about.

I reserved the bear hotpot when I booked and was very happy with it. The room, bathroom, and even the toilet all looked clean.

We had planned to visit the Gassho-zukuri village, about a half-hour drive away, on November 18, 2024. A road closure forced us to detour through Kanazawa, though. By the time we reached the guesthouse, it was after 8 p.m. The owner was still waiting in the lobby and explained the amenities we needed. I'd highly recommend staying here. There's apparently a ski resort nearby, so it should be convenient during ski season.