Guesthouse KAZURABASHI

A classic, traditional inn in a handy spot for walking around the valley, with food places and a shop also within walking distance. The bus station is about a ten-minute walk away. The owner kindly drove me back to oboke station so I didn’t have to carry my luggage on the bus.

The rooms had a lovely traditional style, and the location is close to a beautiful rope bridge, a waterfall, and monkeys 🐒. Most of the classic iya valley sights are nearby too, and the scarecrow village is about a 40-minute drive away. I managed to get around without a car by bus, and the host also rents e-bikes. He picked me up from Ôboke station and was really helpful explaining where things were.

We felt right at home here. The guesthouse was immaculate, the owner was friendly and helpful, and the location was beautiful and very quiet, opposite the ancient vine bridge. We slept on tatami mats, but the beds were thick and comfortable, with plenty of covers for the cold February weather. The rooms had good heaters. We were there with friends in two other rooms and had most of the guesthouse to ourselves. There’s a spacious tatami room for hanging out, a nice bathroom, and several very clean toilets. The kitchen is well equipped. We bought croissants and fruit for breakfast, and sake for the evening. There’s a small shop across the street for basics, and the shop owner was delightful. We managed to chat using smiles and gestures. The bus to Oboke train station stops nearby, though taking a taxi is worthwhile. The owner called taxis when we needed one and booked us dinner at the guesthouse next door. We also hired a local taxi for a six-hour tour of the main Iya Valley sights, including Myoshi. It was well worth it. Our driver was patient and careful, and took lots of photos for us. Iya Valley is special. Thank you, Kurabashi Guest House!

The rooms were clean and spacious, with nice beds, and warm baths were ready from 5pm. The host was kind and very helpful. The location is convenient for reaching a few attractions on foot and sits between other major sights. The room did feel cold, and street noise came through clearly. A bright streetlamp also lit up my room all night :)