I booked Guest House Kuranomachi last minute as an unplanned stopover when my plans changed but it turned out to be a wonderfully memorable part of my adventure in Japan. The host is a super friendly and welcoming young woman. I’m a Japanese speaker so it was nice to be able to chat with her, but she does speak a small amount of English and has put up useful signs and rules for travellers who do not speak Japanese so it’s an accessible experience. I stayed in a cosy traditional Japanese room with futon. I think there was only one other guest staying at the property at the time so it was very quiet and relaxing, I pretty much had the place to myself. There are plenty of amenities you can use as you please such as free tea and instant coffee, a fridge and microwave etc. Unfortunately I didn’t manage to eat at the property but whatever they are cooking downstairs (it’s a bento shop) smelled absolutely delicious - it added to the wholesome atmosphere. I’m really happy I stayed there, if only for one night. I slept so well, I wished I’d been able to stay longer. Tochigi city is a very interesting place that rewards those who take their time to explore it thoroughly. I was overwhelmed by how helpful people were on my way to the property and the next day while exploring. Thankfully the host was happy to keep hold of my luggage for the day after check-out so I was able to make the most of my time there, which meant that I stumbled upon a spectacular Hokusai exhibition taking place at the local art gallery. People have commented that security at the property is a bit lacking, but in such a quiet and friendly Japanese countryside town, it’s not too much of an issue. There are lockers for valuables and you can lock your room from the outside if you are concerned about other guests but all in all, I was not worried about leaving my things with the host the next day as there are people constantly working in the bento shop.

The only downside to how good the smell of the food being prepared downstairs is that I could smell it on my clothes all day afterwards!

This guest house is a hidden gem! The room was in a beautiful traditional Japanese style with Tatami floor and futon beds and our host was just the kindest and nicest person! :) it’s located right next to the canal there is a bento shop on the first floor. A supermarket, the Tochigi station and a boat ride on the canal are all in walking distance.

Beautiful guest house, modern and traditional all together. The person who checked us in was so kind and enthusiastic. Unfortunately we couldn't stay and chat long! The area was very convenient, nice walk along the river with historical sights all around. The futons and pillows were really comfortable, the ac worked well. There were cute little multicolor orb lights you could take to your room. Shower pressure was great, clean. Will definitely stay again!

The walls are very thin, but you can always expect to hear neighbors in a guest house! Maybe bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper.

Location on the river. Beautiful tatami mat with view of river in large room. Toilet seat with carpet made us laugh. The town is amazing !!

The smell of fatty food until you got into your room. Was very greasy underfoot.

The staff is very responsive, very accommodating, super friendly, and very flexible. The neighborhood is very walkable. There appears to be bike for rent at very good price. Nice countryside feeling.

Extremely sweet and friendly staff!! So cute < 3 Very pretty location in centre of town

Security a bit lacking, definitely recommend renting the lockers in the property if u have valuables. Very safe area regardless

We stayed in a traditional Japanese room and we were so impressed by how thorough it was! It was also very clean everywhere, friendly staff and comfortable futons!

Awesome. They waiting for our trip till midnight. Not same others guesthouse.

Nothing

Service, and place

Very friendly host, good location too!