Benidaruma - Dango

The hosts were exceptional; Their English was really good! I appreciated being shown to the room and they also took my luggage up to the room for me Facilities were great; with food offered in the kitchen next door and a shared private bathroom downstairs. I was offered a free shower- there was a coin box where 100¥ was 10 minutes. Which is a little unusual considering the price of the room. But it was very nice in there with loads of towels and accessories. (As well as a few Dragon Ball figures- i'm guessing they're fans!) The room provided was clean. It did seem to show its age, but that was just something I appreciated. Lots of room for a solo traveller. I slept just fine in the futon as well. The location was excellent for me; as there was a train/tram round the corner which took me through to the full eastern side of Kyoto. I feel the price could definitely be a little lower (11,000 JPY iirc); but was personally more than happy to provide it as the hosts seemed very nice. Not to mention a unique experience. Thank you hosts for a great experience! Your English surprised even me; and the Dragon Ball figures were a nice touch.

100¥ for 10 minute shower- I appreciate the free shower, but a timer i'm assuming for others is a bit unusual at this price range. You can hear the train/tram from down the road from the room; but they do stop around quiet hours.

Really nice host. Lots of breakfast options. It felt somewhat like a homestay in a renovated traditional Japanese house (sliding doors and bath style) and I liked it that way.

The air conditioner was a little loud :)

Very, very helpful staff. Easy to reach once you know your way round in Kyoto.

The host, his son and his Mother were incredibly, nice, discreet and welcoming. Me, my son and daughter felt very well looked after and safe during our time there. The bathroom is a typical Japanese bathroom, spacious, with multiple spray showers à bathtub and all you need to wash and clean. The bedroom was also a typical Japanese bedroom, with Futon, à wardrobe, air conditioning, à fan and really well décorated. The kitchen also had all you needed in terms of food, cooking material, space and chairs. The area is very calm, 1mn away from the main bus stop, close to à few restaurant, to the country side, temples and shrines and also very close to the train station which will take you to some more major temples shrine places to visit. I felt ideally located and it was nice to get away from the buzzing city centre. I highly recommend the place.

Nothing

The hosts were amazing! They took care of every need. They were funny, gave tips & were interested in the culture of their guests. The fact you have a free breakfast buffet & cold water at the ready for your hikes/sightseeing is godly! Must do if you want to have a genuine Japanese experience 👊

The hosts are wonderful people who go above and beyond to make sure you have everything you need. Generous and thoughtful, it was a pleasure to stay with them. The beds (futons) and pillows were some of the most comfortable of my whole stay in Japan. The kitchen was well-equipped and well stocked with lots to eat. I enjoyed being able to choose/make my own breakfast.

Though this is not the fault of the hosts, the nature of the property means you hear everyone else move around/talk/etc. Despite many signs and notices imploring guests to be quiet and considerate, not everyone is, and noisy neighbours can be quite a challenge. The property is also relatively far from the city - which we knew, but expect about an hour’s trip to get in/out. It is right next to a bus stop and train station, though.