Guest House Maru ‐Hostel

The room was spacious and very affordable. It's a lovely guesthouse, easy to reach because it's close to the station, though I couldn't hear the trains. There's a lounge downstairs where you can get drinks in the evening. It was quiet when I was there, so I didn't try it.

Cozy, quiet, and clean.

The people were really kind, and the place was lovely and clean. The food was great, too.

Hizenhama turned out to be a lovely surprise. I first chose it simply as a place to stay, but the town felt tucked away and peaceful. At night there was hardly a sound, the stars were bright, and the air carried the rich smell of sake. The local braised sea bream head was delicious and unforgettable. If I get back to Kyushu, I'd stay here for a night or two. The guesthouse is right by the station, and the retro decor has a distinctive, nostalgic feel. The owner was so welcoming. I don't speak much Japanese, but with simple words and gestures we managed to talk about local specialties and restaurants. I was there November 6th and 7th for the Wilderness Zone event in Nagasaki. The JR station has no gates, and the line runs only two trains a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. I only regret forgetting to add the owner's friend on Pokémon Go. The owner's gestures like a long-haired troll were hilarious. I also stayed here November 6th and 7th for Wild Area in Nagasaki. The host was warm and helped me learn about local food and what makes the area special, even though I know little Japanese. The station is literally outside, and the interior has a charming old-fashioned look. It was a secluded little town, and after dark it was so calm and quiet under the bright stars. The JR station has no ticket gates, and only four trains go to Nagasaki each day, two in the morning and two in the evening. Sake's rich, mellow aroma seemed to fill the town. I won't forget the savory local braised sea bream head, or the rest of the trip. If I visit Kyushu again, I'd definitely come back for a night or two. My one small regret is not adding the host as a Pokémon Go friend. The way the host used gestures to describe Grimmsnarl was really funny.