Tabino Yado Mashumaro

Freshly laundered towels are provided with a “please feel free to use them,” which I really appreciated as a traveler trying to conserve my own towels. The inn is run by a friendly woman who loves cooking and is always laughing, and I’d recommend it to women traveling on their own too. It seems to be well placed for trips around eastern Hokkaido, within day-trip range of major destinations such as Shiretoko and Kushiro.

For just one night, I found the place very comfortable. The innkeeper rides motorcycles herself, so there are thoughtful touches for riders throughout. She seems to have taken over from the previous innkeeper and made considerate improvements from a woman’s point of view. The location isn’t especially convenient, so motorcyclists and other travelers should keep that in mind before staying.

Dinner was a delicious, filling homemade meal with lots of little dishes. The portions might be a bit much for women, but I asked for less rice and they adjusted it for me. The hostess is an experienced biker and can give route advice for eastern Hokkaido and other areas too. She’s a friendly woman from Kansai. After dinner I could unwind in the common room, chatting, journaling, or reading manga. Even though it’s a guesthouse, each group gets its own room, so I didn’t feel self-conscious.

The owner was very welcoming, and the home-cooked food was delicious. I do think it would be better to have separate baths for each person.