Minshuku Minami

Aoshima being so close is a big plus for sightseeing. I booked this unusual inn while traveling alone because I wanted to save money. The room was basically just for sleeping, with a shared toilet and sink. I think I might have enjoyed it as a student, but by myself I felt surprisingly lonely.

June 30-July 1, 2025 I chose this inexpensive place for one night because I'd stayed in Miyazaki several times and wanted to be in Aoshima, where I could take a walk in the evening or morning. The people at the inn were nice, and the parking lot was right beside it. The toilet and bathroom were shared. There was a bath, but I went to a private hot spring about a 10-minute drive away for a relaxing soak. The inn was painting the stairs while I was there, and the smell was awful. A refrigerator stood in the hallway but wasn't plugged in, so I turned it on when I arrived. There was shampoo, conditioner, and body soap. A toothbrush was in the bathroom, but it already had toothpaste on it and didn't lather, so bring your own. I asked the woman in the second-floor dining kitchen to heat my food in the microwave. For dinner, I bought pho at a nearby supermarket. There are restaurants and izakayas around, but many close on Mondays.

The location is handy for visiting Aoshima, close to both the sights and the station. Some things weren't explained very well, but I slept fine and the breakfast and dinner were tasty. I also found it interesting that the posters and other things inside seem to have stayed frozen in time for about four years. The bath was meant to be ready from 5 pm, but when I arrived then, it hadn't been filled. I couldn't find anyone from the inn or get through on what seemed to be an internal phone line. Once I finally tracked someone down, they told me guests had to fill it themselves. I turned on the water and waited in my room, but another person got in first, and I lost interest. A hot spring facility nearby was a better option for me, so I rented a bicycle and went there. If you want to enjoy Aoshima Hot Springs, that may be the better choice.

The meals were the highlight for me: generous servings, homestyle, and genuinely delicious. The inn is also handy for getting around, close to both the station and Aoshima Shrine. There are two parking areas. The one nearer the inn is weedy, while the farther lot is asphalt, so you can pick whichever suits you. The rooms have a typical guesthouse setup, with toilets separate from the rooms and a shared fridge in the hallway. Yukata and towels are supplied. Smoking used to be allowed in rooms, but it seems to be prohibited now; there’s a smoking spot on the first floor. I’d recommend staying here if you’re in Aoshima or Miyazaki.