Miharuso

The food was delicious, and the woman running the place, maybe the owner, was lovely and kind. I booked a breakfast plan and thought it was really good value compared with other places around here. I'd stay again if I get the chance.

The shower room and toilet were new and really nice, though the futon let me down. It's a pretty standard inn otherwise. Wi-Fi works inside, and the door uses a key instead of an automatic lock. The parking lot is a short walk away. There aren't restaurants or izakayas close by, and downtown is about a 6-7 minute walk. On the second floor there's a microwave, kettle and coffee.

I've stayed at almost every hotel and inn in Nishinoomote, and Miharuso is the one I like best. I first came for work and have been returning for three years, usually for stays of three to six months. It feels homey, the rooms are clean, and supermarkets, restaurants, convenience stores and the port are nearby. The staff are friendly and helpful, and there's always some update or improvement each time I visit. Last year so many people were staying in Tanegashima that finding a room was tough. My one gripe is that dinner portions are a bit big for me, but I'm older and don't eat as much as younger people. I can surf on my days off too, which is great.

The staff are warm, smiling and flexible, even with last-minute requests, and I had a very pleasant stay. Towels are washed daily, and the room is cleaned every day unless you decline. There's a free washing machine in the bathroom and a drying area on the roof. Breakfast comes in the big hall, with each room assigned its own breakfast. It's a traditional Japanese meal, mostly dried fish, and the menu changes daily. Rice and miso soup arrive piping hot in a wooden rice container when you get to the hall. The flavors lean sweet, which I found comforting. The room has no refrigerator, so I'm taking off a star, though guests can use a large one in the lobby and label their food with a marker. Some rooms have private baths, but the shared bath opens around 5 PM and can be used any time, so a private one may not be needed.