Guesthouse Aozora Blue Sky

Quaint, old Japanese accommodation.

At the start the heavy snow closed the final train leg to Myoko. I was stuck at Kurohime station. All attempts to call and get assistance from Aozora Blue Sky failed. Finally after about 2 hours I managed to snag a taxi. Guests of other accommodation places had shuttle buses and taxis sent to pick them up. The 20 minute uphill walk to town and ski lifts. The road was often very icy. Making it a very difficult and treacherous walk to and from the accommodation. There was no shuttle bus. If it was convenient the owners would give me a lift. I fell on the road, injuring my back. While this did not end my skiing it did seriously impact it. The road also made it too difficult to visit the great bars and restaurants of the town at night. Also, I found the fumes from the kerosene heaters very unpleasant. I have mild athsma and the fumes triggered breathing discomfort. I was able to remove the heater from my room but I could not escape the fumes in the general living areas. I actually moved out and into other accommoodation half way through the schedued stay. The new accommodation was great. A number of shuttle buses scheduled each morning and the fumes from the kerosene heaters were nowhere near as bad. They also a far better breakast for no extra cost. The eggs, fresh, good quality bread and good, proper espresso coffee, made a much better start to the day.

Owner could not pick us up from 1.5km up the hill but when we got there, the owner left in his car & we had to wait for an hour before we could check in, nice!

Fun, great people, comfy beds warm, nice big showers

The walk to and from town, wasn’t far but they seem to not do lifts after the morning lifts like other accoms

Breakfast was more comprehensive than most others we have experienced. Snacks for purchase were relatively inexpensive. Staff were friendly and helpful. Beds were reasonably comfortable. Dinner was delicious.

Location was difficult in a big snow season as it is a long walk to amenities Drying room was a mess and not dedicated to the task Hot water available but had to ask for teabags/coffee and cup. Typical kerosene heating of older property - smelly and not nice in bedrooms. We turned it off in our room.

Great location, super friendly staff and cute pets