Konpira Machiya Usu

Furumachiya guesthouse was spacious, clean, and had a fully equipped kitchen. We made hot pot, pan-fried wagyu beef, and our own breakfast there. I especially liked the bathroom: in winter I could run hot water, and opening the windows made it feel like a semi-open-air bath. It also drained and filled quickly. We'd originally booked four nights, then our plans changed when snow fell in the mountain area we meant to visit, and we didn't have snow tubing gear. Luckily, we could add another night at USU. Parking was easy, and we explored the area on foot and by bike. I really liked the small-town atmosphere. We'd go back to Shikoku just for USU!

We had a spacious room when we stayed with family to visit Konpira-san Shrine. The semi-open-air bath smelled of cypress and looked beautiful. There was a washing machine, kitchen, and rental bicycles too. JR Kotohira Station and Kotoden Kotohira Station are both less than a minute away on foot, and Konpira-san Shrine is around a 5-10 minute walk. The staff were helpful and accommodated our sudden changes to the schedule. Only one group is accepted each day, so we could really relax. I'd stay here again on another visit to Konpira-san Shrine.

It was a cold snap when I stayed, and the inside of the Japanese-style house was cold too. I suppose that comes with the type of building. It's flexible, so I think it works well for families with lots of children. It also cost less than a nearby hotel.

We used this hostel for a university graduation trip with classmates from high school. They helped us out by accommodating our request for some consecutive nights, and communication after booking was smooth, so arriving that day felt worry-free. The husband and the woman in training both explained everything carefully. It made for a pleasant trip, and I'd use the hostel again next time I'm in Kagawa.