JOYinn

They were very welcoming and focused on guests, and the owner speaks English really well. The place seems designed with foreigners in mind. They offer free pickups and will drive you places when they can. The downsides are the location, which feels pretty much in the middle of nowhere, with not much to do nearby, no street lights or sidewalks, and the house has thin walls.

The host is lovely and helpful, replies to messages almost immediately, and makes an effort to learn different languages to communicate with guests. Public transport doesn't get you to the location, but their daily pickup and drop-off to wherever you need is a lifesaver. There's a microwave in the room, which came in handy. There aren't restaurants nearby, so I'd buy what you need at a convenience store first. The closest restaurant is 10 minutes away by mountain roads. The wooden interior lets some sound through, and there are signs asking people to be quieter after 11pm. I had a really nice stay and would do it again if I got the chance.

I traveled from the US and generally like Japan. The Japanese people I've met have been diligent and kind. But in my experience, this inn's owner acted like a thief, just without a weapon, making easy money by backstabbing tourists while other Japanese people work hard. I'd booked a room through hotels.com for two adults and two small children, and was able to select a room. When we arrived, the owner said the children weren't included in the reservation and demanded extra payment, even though I'd already paid over 20,000 Yen. It's Golden week, so it would have been impossible to find a last-minute place elsewhere, and most people probably would have handed over another 6,500 Yen. I felt the tactic was unethical and left a foreigner with no good options. The owner cited a "policy" that I understand exists, but I still felt taken advantage of. I couldn't get a refund if I cancelled, but could stay by paying more. I was disgusted enough to walk away. My trips to other cities have been wonderful, and I won't let this spoil the rest of my trip. I'd recommend avoiding this place if possible.

The host put in a real effort to make my stay a good one. They offered free pickup and drop-off, perhaps because it was off season. I can't imagine they can do that in the busy season. The room was convenient and very clean, with power outlets and switches that were easy to find and remember. From the ocean-view room, the view is amazing. Their hospitality deserves a Michelin reward.