TSUDOI guest house

The owner was super nice, and the dorm price was good. Staying here also gets you access to the public onsen. The beds are rock hard, though, and there’s nowhere in the room to put luggage. Hooks on the beds for hanging things in the cubbies would help. I was happy overall with just two of us in the room, but it would feel very crowded if it were full.

The low price and warm, friendly atmosphere made our three nights in Unzen memorable, even with the snow while we were walking around Japan. It’s right in the town center, just a minute from Jigoku, and Ichi-san was so kind. We had a wonderful stay.

Ichi and Hannah made it easy for travelers to get to know each other, and we were treated like part of the family. On a stormy, windy day, Ichi brought out games and even taught us a little calligraphy. He was accommodating and had great recommendations. The stay includes free onsen vouchers, too. If you’re visiting the area, this is the place.

The bunk rooms are capsule-style, so you can hear people snoring or packing right beside you, and making your own bed can be a hassle. Bring your own towel and toiletries, including a toothbrush and toothpaste, since they don’t provide them. The free voucher for the nearby onsen may be included, but bring washroom supplies there too. It’s a sentou-style bathhouse with onsen water. The guesthouse itself feels cozy, almost like somebody’s home, and the other guests were friendly. It’s in sleepy Unzen, about 500 metres from Unzen Hells. When I needed cigarettes, the owner came along and showed me a shop that sold them. Great service.