BED N CHILL Shippoya - Hostel

The host and his family made this stay special. They were so warm and generous, and even with my limited Japanese I could chat with them and play a few songs on the guitar. The shared dorm pods were roomier than usual and very clean, and the women’s shower had face masks and hair ties. You can see how much thought and effort went into the place. It’s tucked among flower patches in the hills outside the city, so it was a really relaxing break from the kind of city stay many tourists have in Japan. Easily my best hostel experience across 25-plus countries.

I had a Kukai craft beer at the Canadian bar in the old house, where I believe the owner’s family lives. It was delicious and refreshing. There are no meals, so I picked up dinner on the way to Shippoya. The hostel is between Temple No. 70 and 71, and I was glad to stay there after finishing my Henro. It’s clean, comfortable, well maintained, and good value. I slept in the mixed dorm with six bunk beds, though I was the only guest that night.

Seiji-san looked after me well, and we had plenty of good conversations during my lovely two-night stay at Shippoya. It’s an easy walk from Mino station and a convenience store, and the high standard of cleanliness made the place feel especially comfortable. I’m looking forward to coming back.

After arriving late and soaked from a thunderstorm, I was grateful for how friendly and helpful the owner was. They speak good English and helped me book my next accommodation. Shippoya is clean, with nice showers and laundry facilities, and it’s well placed just before Temple 71 (Iyadaniji). I visited early the next morning while the temple was quiet and wrapped in fog, and had the place to myself. I stayed here in April 2023 during my pilgrimage, and would happily return.