This was a trifecta of awesome. Great location, great room, and the best part was our lovely host. We had to stay again she was so warm and welcoming. She is a fabulous cook and prepares so much food I’m blown away she does this all on her own. She had large portions of local sake too! We didn’t get to hear music but it was still a really neat place. We had a cozy room that had everything we needed. Private bathroom and bathtub. She had some free time so was able to take to an onsen and share wonderful suggestions of things to do. If you want to meet a wonderful lady and be close to great areas in Itoigawa, this is the place.

I didn’t like leaving lol. I wanted to stay longer, I will return again. Bring cash if you do plan to eat.

It was such a wonderful stay! Our host was so kind, a wonderful cook, and a heart of gold. She picked us up from the train station which was great because though it was close it was raining and dark. After a long day of travel having such kindness and delicious ramen was the perfect welcome to Japan. It was close to a lot of sites and the room was comfortable and beautiful with everything you could need. I will return next trip to Japan for sure.

Nothing not liked

This property is a traditional building that has been extended with an intimate live music venue at the front and accommodation behind and above. The front room doubles as the reception and dining area where you are surrounded by photos of past performances, eclectic European-style furniture and decor, and a grand piano. Music from jazz vocal greats plays in the background - it is both homely and a bit magical. We booked the large "family" room, that consisted of two spacious rooms including a small kitchen area and small but functional private bathroom - perfect if you wanted a longer stay. Keiko-san is a great host and cook who is extremely generous to her guests. If we ever get back to Itiogawa we will definitely stay here again.

For us nothing, but people with limited mobility need to be aware that there is no elevator.

This is a lovely place to stay. It was walking distance to the train station. The room was warm and clean. Our children enjoyed their first experience of using the kotatsu. The owner was exceptionally kind and friendly. We ordered breakfast and it was a most delicious spread in the tastefully decorated dining area. Thank you very much! Will be very happy to stay there again.

Nothing.

This was a spur of the moment adventure because it’s on the Shinkansen line. Amazing, unique, and a great location. The proprietor was so much fun. She told us all about Itoigawa, the people she has met, where we could hunt for jade, and even drove us to the train station. Itoigawa is a very unique place in the world. Mountains, oceans, hot springs, geology. Glad we came here. The inn is traditional Japanese which is more authentic compared to a mid-range hotel.

Nothing. Just perfect.

I had an amazing experience at this hotel. The owner was very kind and helpful, and even gave us a lift by her car and a bottle of juice as a gift. The house was very cozy and decorated with many cute things. The price was also very reasonable for the quality of service and comfort. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Thank you for making our trip memorable!

I travelled with my 12 year old son for a bit of father-son bonding (after having been separated so long by Covid restrictions). The weather was terrible. There was barely anyone around the town (this is rural Japan and it was off-season, so quite normal), but we had the most amazing time. There were many great things I could mention (the food for example..), but what makes Hisui No Umi so special is its open-hearted friendliness. The proprietor and hostess, Keiko-san, is just wonderful. Thanks to her hospitality, the whole place has a family atmosphere. A departing family gave us tips on where and how to look for jade. A visiting geological photographer happily took us on his shoot. And we went to Onsen and out to dinner with Keiko-san herself! The stay was simply unforgettable.

The owner was very friendly and helpful. She even gave us a ride to Fossa Magna (not to be missed) since she was heading that way. Great location. There is a lot to see and do in the area. I recommend biking the Kubuki trail.

Everything was good.

The host was extremely hospitable - she upgraded my room since I was staying for a longer period of time! As a lone traveller without a car, she offered to drive me around, bringing me to places that would have been too far for me via public transport. One night, she even called to check up on me when I wasn't home yet though it was dark out. Breakfast was also very filling, she gives generous portions :) Also, although there were no live performances schedule, her musician friends dropped by to practise and I got to enjoy live music still :)

I wish I could have stayed longer!

We were made to feel so very welcome! And were offered a larger room at no extra charge. Everything was clean and well-organised, and also homely, in this thoroughly Japanese house. A very good experience. Thank you!