Homestays w: Aomori Prefecture, Japan

As a backpacker, the journey to the hotel was challenging. I chose this one because it was the closest to Hakusan-Hoko Temple, which I absolutely had to see for its magnificent three-story pagoda and all its surroundings. Arriving from Aomori, I couldn't leave until after 4 p.m. Having not paid attention, I discovered that there are very few buses between Suwanotaira Station and the hotel, the last one leaving at 5:30 p.m. So, I decided to walk with my 25 kg packs. Walking in the dark through the forest with my small flashlight, I heard a dog barking incessantly near a farm. Suddenly, there was a loud noise in a tree: a bear came down very quickly and started growling. I was terrified, stepped back, and used a bell to scare it away. This happened a five-minute walk from the hotel. The receptionist was surprised but took my story seriously, asking me for the exact location. I hadn't eaten since morning, and despite the kitchens being closed, she offered to make me onigiri and sake. They were the best I've had since arriving in Japan. I particularly enjoyed the hotel's onsen for relaxing after the long walk. It was my first time sleeping in a traditional Japanese room, and I loved the experience. Kimonos are available in all sizes. Thinking I could finally go to sleep peacefully, my phone received two national alerts. I had barely started reading them when a major earthquake struck. The entire room began to shake. I was worried because I had never experienced anything like it before. The alarms in my room and throughout the hotel started going off. The receptionist came to me several times to check if I was alright and to tell me not to use the elevator. The cleaning staff also came to check if the water was turned off in my bathroom. The alarms went off again at 6:00 a.m. and then 8:00 a.m. The receptionist came to my room to offer to drive me to the temple free of charge, something I had originally planned to do on foot, and then to take me from the temple to Hachinohe Station, because due to the earthquake, all trains between Suwanotaira and Hachinohe Stations had been canceled, as well as the Shinkansen trains departing from Hachinohe that I was originally supposed to take to Tsuruoka. I am extremely grateful for the support and kindness of the receptionist. She took care of me without me even asking. Thanks also to Yukuri Okobo for her kindness and for driving me to the temple and then to Hachinohe Station. Despite these very unusual circumstances, I highly recommend this hotel! You couldn't ask for a better welcome as a foreigner, and the rooms and onsen are superb! Arigatō Gozaimasu! 😊

This backpacker hostel boasts a superb location, just a five-minute walk from the Towada Lake Restaurateur bus stop, making it convenient for exploring and taking photos at the lake. The hostel features a beautiful exterior and comfortable interior with ample shared space. The dormitories have curtains for privacy on each bed and tables and chairs for guests' use. The owners are friendly and helpful; the elderly gentleman, though not fluent in English, is very accommodating, while the younger manager speaks fluent English, making communication easy. The hostel is very affordable, including dinner and breakfast, and the food is decent, with a comfortable restaurant environment. Guests can also purchase discounted tickets to the Towada-so onsen (hot spring) next door, making it an excellent value.

I stayed at this place while hiking Michinoku trail. This place is right next to the train station Tanesashi Kaigan. Very clean and well maintained place. The owner lady is very sweet, kind and helpful. This is a fantastic place to stay, no doubt. Dinner and breakfast are sumptuous, with a variety of dishes. It is a short walk to the sea shore as well. I know basic Japanese, and I have lived in Japan before. Therefore it is easier for me to stay in minshukus. However, it is not difficult for foreigners to stay in this place at all. The lady owner is very helpful. I will not hesitate to stay here again when I visit this area. I highly recommend this place.

Although the location is often a little distance from the fireworks, the proprietress is very enthusiastic to drive us past and back, and the service is really good. The meal is simple but very attentive, delicious! In addition, the bathroom is built with a large bathtub, which is a bit rudimentary. In this regard, you should have more thoughts to improve the security. 

The building and rooms were clean and very comfortable. The food was delicious, and the hot springs were included, so I had a very satisfying stay. After checking out, they even took me to the Yasumiya bus stop, which saved me the trouble of walking. I highly recommend this place if you come to Lake Towada.

The surrounding environment and service are good👍But there are really bed bugs in the room. We killed nearly 20 of them. It's so scary.

A great hotel! The cat is super cute and petite! There are more than 20 cats in total, and the boss is very warm and thoughtful. The hotel should have it and the breakfast is delicious. recommend!

裏の有料駐車場からは塀があり直接入れないのが難点でしたが入庫から24時間500円だったのでそれは良かったです。アメニティに歯ブラシがあると思っていましたが見つけられませんでした。またリンスが無いので持参しましょう。このような宿泊所は初めての経験でしたが隣りの部屋が空室だったようなので気兼ね無く過ごせました。ベッドの寝心地は良かったです。食事が無いおかげで弘前の夜散歩を楽しめました。ありがとうございました。