Minshuku Rakutenya

Cool retro vibe in the building. The staff were nice enough and it’s a good central location. The bedding and tatami were clean.

So old (more than we expected) and a lot of insects including cockroaches and centipedes. The building, bathroom and bedrooms are much older and in worse condition than the photos show, such as exposed wiring and rotting supporting beams and stairs. When we saw the room we considered moving hotels even after paying. I’m glad there was no earthquake while we stayed. The walls are extremely thin, we could hear snoring, creaking and a crying baby on floor below, so there is no privacy. It’s cheap but I wouldn’t go back.

I loved the style of the building, with its strong sense of traditional Japanese materials (wood, tatami, shoji) and quiet atmosphere. I was reminded of Tanizaki's essay "In Praise of Shadows". My room was airy and light, and so quiet and calm. Miyako-san was extremely helpful and kind regarding suggestions for places to visit in Ishigaki, and ensuring I was comfortable during my stay.

You're basically living like a local. In a classic tatami room. There is free coffee and tea. The showers are big and so is the room. Cheap Self-Laundry (50¥) and you can either dry it or hang it outside. Caring owner. They have a nice cancellation policy where you get refunded if you have to leave earlier and get money back if you tell them a day before. Super fair! (We took an earlier flight because of an upcoming typhoon). You get what you pay for.

The toilet upstairs smelled like piss and the showers and rooms definitely have seen better days. Then again, you get what you pay for.

The owner was kind. It was interesting to stay in a traditional inn. The building is clearly aged but my room was very clean and the futon comfortable. It’s good value for money.

As the building is so old the walls are paper thin so the sound carries from the neighbouring rooms.

love it. just make sure windows are closed as there are tons of mozzies outside