Okayama Guesthouse Igusa

We stayed for three nights and had a great time. The host was really informative, and the peaceful garden and very quiet neighborhood made it easy to relax. The station is nearby, and the supermarket is about a 12-minute walk away.

I loved using the Japanese stoneware and those blue and white ceramic plates and cups. The kitchen was clean, well organized, and had room to cook, and the female-only room had space for five futons. I’m fond of heritage houses, and this one was a favorite. Walking from the station, you pass modern Japanese homes before reaching a lovely contrast, a traditional inn with an impressive Japanese garden. Staying at Igusa House at Hayashima was a memorable way to end my Japan trip. Hayashima is about two stations from Okayama City and also lies on the route to Takamatsu.

The owner is very kind and speaks English really well. If you book online, he’ll usually message before your stay, so keep an eye on your email. The hostel is close enough to the train to make it easy to get to Shikoku, Okayama, or kojima, while the town itself is small and quiet. I like visiting peaceful little towns in Japan, and this place is worth the time. On a first visit, I’d suggest staying 2 to 3 days. There’s plenty to see, but it doesn’t feel boring or overwhelming.

The owner was incredibly kind and helpful when I lost my wallet. He went out of his way to help and cheer me up, and, because this is Japan, the wallet was eventually found. The guesthouse has a lovely, fairy-tale feel, like something from a Studio Ghibli film. I enjoyed relaxing in the main room with a drink or a meal and looking out at the traditional Japanese garden, where there were birds and dragonflies. The garden and peaceful surroundings are wonderful. Hayashima is a small, cozy town and the guesthouse makes a great base, only a few stops from Okayama.