Guesthouse SORA Chikatsuyu
Accommodation
4.82
Chikatsuyu Guesthouse Sora
Outside view
Owners
Entrance
Sample room
Sample room
Sample room
Sample room
Bath
Toilet
Sink, Washer
Sample room
Kitchen
Bath
Toilet
Entrance
Books section
CDs section
Dining
Sample dinner (Normal menu)
Sample dinner (No meat)
Sample dinner (Vegetarian menu)
Sample dinner (Normal menu)
Sample dinner scenery
Sample lunch-box (Left:Normal menu , Right:Vegetarian menu)
Description
Kumano Kodo Homestay in Chikatsuyu
| Full Name |
Guesthouse SORA Chikatsuyu
熊野古道の宿 近露そら |
|---|---|
| Area | Chikatsuyu |
| Type | Homestay |
| Address | 614 Chikatsuyu, Nakahechi-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture 〒646-1402
〒646-1402 和歌山県田辺市中辺路町近露614 |
| Map Code | 615 822 533*25 |
| Maps | |
| Check-in | 15:00 - 18:30 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Curfew | 21:30 |
Rating & Reviews
4.82
Guestroom
Baths
Meals
Location
Reception & Service
Date: Mar/2026
United Kingdom (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
Friendly hosts in lovely Japanese house
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2026
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Wonderful Stay
We loved Guesthouse SORA! Naomi and Yasuyuki welcomed us with open arms. They fed us 3 amazing meals, and we spent a lovely dinner together getting to know one another. The room was spacious and clean, and Naomi was a helpful Kumano guide. We had a really spectacular time, and would whole-heatedly recommend SORA to anyone planning on doing the pilgrimage!
Date: Mar/2026
Taiwan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2025
Taiwan (Female, age 50-59)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2025
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2025
United Kingdom (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
I would give a higher rating if I could!
Me, my husband and our 2 friends absolutely loved staying with Naomi-san and Yasau-san. It was a highlight of the trip, they were so lovely to chat to over dinner and the food was so delicious, especially the beef stew and the rice! The rooms were beautiful with a view over into Naomi-san’s garden. Would love to came back and see them again :)
Date: Nov/2025
France (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
Great modern vibe
This place has a modern service feel to it. It was en enjoyable experience with fantastic innkeepers.
Date: Nov/2025
New Zealand (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
So grateful
Naomi and her husband are so gracious - we were a bit early and she couldn't have been kinder. She also went out of her way to ensure we knew our options for the bus as the next day is long and was predicted to be rainy. She went over the same information with all of us, and made our meals together a truly great experience. She also gave me the best Gluten free meals of any place I stayed- I wish I could find where she found the buns! Thank you Naomi!
Date: Oct/2025
Switzerland (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2025
United States (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Wonderful homestay
Guesthouse Sora was a beautiful, comfortable homestay for us. The rooms were big and comfortable. Ours was in the front of the house with a wonderful sitting area looking out on front yard and the village. Our hostess Naomi and her husband were very inviting and warm. Wonderful home cooked meal and lovely bread for breakfast. Naomi was very helpful in printing out additional information and providing advice on planning the next day.
Date: Sep/2025
Switzerland (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
One of the highlights of my trip to Japan
Staying at Sora is one of the highlights of my trip to Japan. Naomi and her husband were very kind and welcoming ; they extended themselves to make sure every guest knew how they would go on for their next walking day. We were all dining together at a large table and our hosts conveyed a very nice atmosphere. The food was great too.
Date: Sep/2025
Philippines (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Very friendly reception and great stay experience
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2025
Singapore (Female, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
Friendly couple who gave us plenty information, making sure that we are well aware of the reduced frequency of bus to complete our journey and be safe to reach the next hotel. Given us home make wine, thank you our dear owners.
Date: Aug/2025
Taiwan (Female, age **)
4.80
Excellent experience!
My family are all vegans and we are so happy to enjoy great meals prepared with love (we also booked lunch boxes). The guesthouse owners took great care of us, responding to our needs quickly. Our stay there is the best moment during our trip. Highly recommended!
Date: Aug/2025
Netherlands (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
You were lovely people! Mecha arigato!
Date: Jul/2025
Taiwan (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
more than expected
enjoy every moment there，cannot wait to go back
Date: Jul/2025
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
A Highlight of our Trip!
Staying at Guesthouse Sora was an unforgettable experience. The hosts, a lovely and kind-hearted couple, went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable from the moment we arrived. They shared thoughtful advice for our Kumano Kodo hike and gave us great local tips that really enriched our journey. We had a wonderful time using their e-bikes to explore the surrounding area. It was such a fun and easy way to take in the beautiful scenery. The meals were absolutely delicious, lovingly prepared and full of flavour. One of the best parts of our stay was gathering around the large communal dining table in the evening. We shared stories and laughter with a few fellow hikers, which made the experience even more special. The shared bathroom facilities were spotless and well-maintained, and everything about the guesthouse felt calm, clean, and cared for. Guesthouse Sora was a highlight of our trip—we couldn’t recommend it more highly!
Date: Jul/2025
South Africa (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Home away from home
We loved staying at Sora Chikatsuyu and felt welcome from the first step inside the beautiful home.
Date: Jun/2025
China (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2025
United States (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Best stay on the Kumano Kodo
This was our favorite stay on the Kumano Kodo, and one of the best stays during our entire month in Japan. The house and room are lovely, food outstanding, but what made the stay particularly enjoyable are the hosts, Naomi and Yasuyuki. Their hospitality and warmth can't be matched. Naomi patiently outlined an alternative hiking route that we followed and really appreciated. We would heartily recommend this accommodation to anyone passing through Chikatsuyu. You will not be disappointed.
Date: May/2025
Canada (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
Fantastic experience and will be one of our fondest memories.
Date: Apr/2025
Taiwan (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2025
United States (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Wonderful guest house
We enjoyed very much our stay with Naomi. Room was large and nice with balcony. Naomi was super kind and gave us detailed explanations and guidance. Dinner was delightful in home atmosphere with all guests, so we met wonderful people. It was a great stay.
Date: Mar/2025
Italy (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Best choice
The hosts made our stay amazing! They prepared a wonderful japanese dinner for and offered kimonos to all guests. All food was fresh and home made; even the lunch box for the next day. Accommodation was cute, wide, and absolutely clean.
Date: Mar/2025
Malaysia (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
MOST EXCELLENT HOSTS
Naomi and her husband were excellent hosts; always attentive to the needs of travellers to the extent of even accompanying me to the hospital to attend to an injury in the foot. Highly recommended for those who consider the hosts an integral part of the overall experience.
Date: Mar/2025
Taiwan (Female, age **)
4.80
Should be the best accommodation in Chikatsuyu Oji
If you need the English service, here must be your best choice.(Even you don't need English service, its still the best) When we just arrived quite early at 1st day, we're still a bit worried about the long distance at 2nd day. But the host suggested us to borrow their E-bike to finish 2 stamps collections near Tsugizakura Oji, so we can take bus to detour route to start our 2nd day. I'll say its still not easy to finish the bike trip(So cold and windy then), but they suggestions help me soothe the worry about the 2nd day. Also, they have more plan ;) They hosted us with hot tub, soft and warm bed, 最高 during this season. And we have dinner with Sukiyaki, Sashimi and 日本酒. So luxury and delicious then I expected. Also we chatted and enjoyed dinner with host and other guests. The hosts, Yasu and Naomi, they know everything about Japan. If you have any questions, they will be so happy to share information with you :) Totally full-recharged for the 2nd day!!
Date: Dec/2024
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2025
Taiwan (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
大変よかったです。特にオーナーご夫婦はすごくフレンドリーで、楽しい夜を過ごしました！お部屋も綺麗し、食べ物も美味しいかったです。次回またここで泊まりたいと思います。
Date: Dec/2024
Malaysia (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Wonderful stay
Hosts are very friendly and our stay was very comfortable.
Date: Dec/2024
Taiwan (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
The house owners were very nice to the guests and provided very useful information and suggestions to me. They were very hospitality. I'd like to suggest this accommodation to my friends.
Date: Nov/2024
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
We loved this Guesthouse. The hosts were exceptional. The property, location and presentation was exceptional. The food was the best we ate in Japan. The Hosts were incredibly welcoming, friendly, very helpful. Such lovely hosts - we didn't want to say goodbye. We sat at their dining table with other guests - it was a highlight of our trip. Lovely village too. We would go back to this guesthouse and have already recommended it to friends. Exceptional in every way.
Date: Nov/2024
Japan (Female, age 50-59)
4.25
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
France (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Great accommodation and great hosts
Very good stay here, hosts were very lovely and the meal was very good. It was our 1st night sleeping in futon and it was also the best we had during our trip in Japan.
Date: Oct/2024
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
Canada (Male, age 70-79)
4.80
Perfect host for newbie pilgrims
Clean, contemporary room/bathroom. Delicious food. The host was quick to explain the intricacies of the bus system and offer helpful information about the walk, weather and trail conditions. She hosted a dinner for all her roomers around a big central table which created a camaraderie that lasted the whole hike as we crossed paths each day
Date: Oct/2024
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
Switzerland (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
One night stay, for a Group of 7, on the Kumano Kodo, Nakahechi route
We stayed one night at Chikatsuyu Sora, with our hosts Noemi and Yasuyuki. It had rained all day on our walk from Takijiri Oji, so we were completely soaked on arrival. Nevertheless, Noemi and Yasuyuki welcomed us to their home and helped us to wash and dry our clothing for the next morning🍀👌. Dinner and breakfast were so Oishi 🙏. Thank you so much for wonderful hospitality.
Date: Sep/2024
United Kingdom (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Wonderful stay at SORA
Our stay at SORA was a highlight of our holiday/honeymoon. Naomi and Yasu were brilliant hosts, so friendly and welcoming. Naomi kindly spent time with us to plan the second day of our hike on the Kumano Kodo (the hike was more challenging than we had anticipated so Naomi suggested a route for us which included a bus). They prepared a delicious evening meal in the big dining space; breakfast set us up for the days hike, the lunch kept us going - all very tasty. The guesthouse was very clean and cosy, with everything (and more) that you could need. Thank you for creating such a wonderful experience for us.
Date: Aug/2024
Singapore (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Warm hospitality from the hosts who treat you like family
Absolutely loved my stay here. The hosts are a very cute husband-and-wife pair who are extremely thoughtful, personable, and hospitable. I am so thankful and grateful to have been taken care of by them. The hosts take every genuine interest in you, and the dinner meal felt like a gathering of friends and family together with our fellow guests from the other rooms. We had a very enjoyable conversation about our different experiences, over a delicious and scrumptuous meal prepared by the couple. Many things are freshly grown out of their garden (or their neighbours', whom they trade with). I was sad when we had to say goodbye. Arigato gozaimasu, Naomi san and Yasuyuki san! I wish you all the very best.
Date: Aug/2024
France (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Exceptional stay in Chikatsuyu
Fantastic welcome by Naomi-san and Yasuyuki-san. So friendly, great tips about things to see and do in Chikatsuyu, delicious meals, a very generous and spontaneous conversation! It was a lovely moment, the best we had on Kumano kodo. Arigatô gozaimashita!
Date: Jul/2024
Netherlands (Male, age 20-29)
4.80
- No subject -
Beautiful home and space. Dinner was lovely and their company even better.
Date: Aug/2024
China (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2024
Czech Republic (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Great vegan food from caring hosts
This was a lovely place to stay, with hosts who clearly deeply care and take great pride in what they do. While we were expecting a shared bathroom, we actually got an ensuite which was very convenient. WiFi was good and the room provided everything we needed. Our evening meal and breakfast were communal with the other guests. We're quite introverted by nature, but it was great to hear from other travellers and our hosts about the trails and life on the Kumano Kodo. Naomi helpfully provided us with info and advice on how to change our plans based on the rain forecast the next day, which was really valuable. We had vegan (vegetarian type E) meals, and were really impressed with what we got. Our evening meal included fried tofu which was beautifully seasoned and one of the best things we ate on our 5 day trip. We also had a mushroom dish, pickles, and plenty of rice. For breakfast we got some really thick and delicious bread, along with tasty tofu and salad, which was all quite filling - it was my favourite breakfast of the trip. Our lunch box included two rice balls and some vegetables. Again, it was filling and tasty. Definitely recommended for vegans! One of the highlights of the whole trip to Japan was Naomi taking all the guests out to see fireflies in a nearby rice field. Truly special!
Date: Jul/2024
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Amazing guesthouse
Sora is a very beautiful place to stay. The absolute highlight is the hosts themselves who could not have been more helpful and lovely. Absolutely recommend this for anyone in the area!
Date: Jul/2024
Singapore (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Staying at kind couple's home
Staying with Naomi and Yuna is like staying with friends. We arrived on a rainy day and were taken so well care of. Our room was wonderful with a small enclosed balcony. Dinner was cosy around a large table with Naomi and Yuna. We had a lovely conversation and learnt more about the Kumano Kodo and Japan. The small hot bath (which is able to maintain temperature) was a delight after a day of hiking in the rain. I was pleasantly surprised to see shoe dryers in our hiking boots - these ensured we had dry shoes the next day. I really appreciated the advice and guidance given for the next day of hiking - they prepared a sheet of information as a resource. Rain was expected the next day also and we adjusted our hiking plans accordingly. I highly recommend staying at Guesthouse SORA Chikatsuyu.
Date: Jun/2024
United States (Male, age **)
4.80
Kind and helpful hosts, comfortable stay
Naomi-san and her husband were very gracious hosts! Our room was comfortable and had everything we needed. Naomi-san speaks excellent English and she gave us a lot of advice on our hiking plan, especially since it was raining while we were there. We also got to meet the other guests and had lovely dinner conversation with them.
Date: Jun/2024
Czech Republic (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
One of the best memories from Japan
We had a lovely stay. Everything was perfect - the hosts, the food, the place. Thank you very much!
Date: Jun/2024
New Zealand (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
A wonderful experience
We loved staying at Guesthouse SORA. Nome & her husband were wonderful hosts, very friendly and the most helpful of all our contacts on the walk. I would encourage all walkers to stay here!
Date: May/2024
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Warm and Caring Attention to Detail
The moment we arrived after our first long hike we were greeted with warm smiles, barley tea with a tasty cracker and the offer to draw a bath for me (which I happily accepted.) Kimonos were provided and dinner was served promptly and beautifully. Each guest had a hot pot specific to her/his dietary requests. My husband is vegan and was well provided for. There were some great books available for reading (lots of Murakami) and lovely touches like toothbrushes in the shared bathroom in case you needed one. Naomi was amazingly gracious and generous, providing helpful information on the hike and about Chikatsuyu. She is genuine in her desire to connect with her guests and make them happy. Her husband is also lovely. The lunch box was also great. I would come back in a heartbeat and wish I could stay in touch because the hosts are lovely people.
Date: May/2024
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Birthday at SORA
We had a very nice time at SORA guesthouse. Our hosts were super and the dinner was very good. The next morning it was my birthday and Naomi surprised me with a pancake which was amazing, thank you so much! 5/5 would recommend.
Date: May/2024
China (Female, age **)
5.00
Thank you for the home like hosting!
Very friendly and considerate host couple. Nothing better than a hot bath, home-cooking dinner (and 2nd day bento box) and fun & open-minded conversations after a long day of walk! Feeling like staying at home and I hope I can be like this when I retire.:)))
Date: May/2024
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
5/3~5/4中辺路
Soraさんには、暖かく出迎えて頂き、ゆっくり疲れを癒やす事ができた。体力的にも、時間的にも、最適でした。ただ、他の宿泊者は全て北米の方だったので、会話ができませんでした。それだけが、残念です。
Date: May/2024
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.00
ありがとうございました
宿泊客が外人さんばかりでしたが、オーナー様が上手くコミュニケーションをとっていただき、楽しく談笑できました。 また、いろいろお気遣いもありがとうございました。 お昼の弁当も美味しかったです。 本当にありがとうございました。
Date: Apr/2024
Malaysia (Female, age 50-59)
4.50
- No subject -
Naomi-San and husband are very kind, friendly and helpful . Naomi is so kind to find out our plan of hike for next day to Hongu, and gave us a piece of advice type of hiking plan in a brief summary paper together with bis schdules ..great help to us. .we had a great time, great food , god laugh and comfortable tatami for a night. Thank you Naomi .
Date: Apr/2024
Singapore (Female, age **)
4.00
- No subject -
Glad to be given an ensuite room even though at the point of booking, it says shared batheoom and toilet. Am pleasantly surprised. Thank you ! However, the room had carpet that smelled, esp when one is sleeping on the futon on the carpet floor. The house had lot's of treasures - books, CDs, cameras, and lovely coloured kimonos for guests to choose from. Really nice ! Host Naiomi-san was very hospitable, sitting at the dining table to entertain us during meal times. Though her english was not very fluent fluent, it's not difficult to understand her. She was very warm and really makes us feel welcome, sharing a lot of stories, history, interesting facts during meal times. At checkin, she was very helpful with maps, showing us how to get around Chikatsuyu and even how to get to our next accomodation, with a folder of hand drawn maps and bus schedule. Must realky commend her for the good advice !
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
Fabulous place to stay in Chikatsuyu
We loved our stay at Guesthouse Sora. Naomi and Yasuyuki were both so friendly and helpful. They are passionate advocates for the town and Naomi was an absolute font of information. The dinner, served at a huge communal table, was quite simple but delicious and it was lovely to interact with the other guests and listen to Naomi talk about Japan and the Kumano region.
Date: Apr/2024
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
We felt so welcome
We had the lovely privilege of being the only two staying that evening during our honeymoon and had great conversations with Naomi-san and Yasu-san, sharing cultural anecdotes and discussing music. The traditional bedroom with the warming kotatsu was very comfortable. I'll never forget groggily waking up for breakfast and Naomi-san excitedly opening the kitchen door, brimming with cheer. I was barely awake and she was just thrilled to continue our talks. We were even served a special mochi after Naomi-san found out how much my wife liked it. We jokingly refer to them as our Japanese parents and will cherish our "goodbye" selfie. We hope to be back some day!
Date: Apr/2024
Germany (Female, age **)
4.60
Very spacious house with kind owners
I spent a lovely evening with the kind owners in their spacious guesthouse. The location is very convenient for walking Nakahechi.
Date: Mar/2024
United States (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
Warm and friendly
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2024
Ireland (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Again, delightful hosts in a lovely house.
Date: Mar/2024
Canada (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Fabulous!
We loved our stay at SORA Chikatsuyu! The friendly welcome, excellent information, and delicious dinner and breakfast made our stay.
Date: Mar/2024
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Ultimate coziness after a long day
We loved every moment at this lodging. The hosts were warm and welcoming; meals in the common space were delicious, joyful, and full of wonderful conversation; and room had everything we needed plus a kotatsu table and sliding door leading out to the misty mountains. We were also so pleasantly surprised after a long day of hiking to have an onsen bath ready for us! This stay was a highlight of our trip - the moment we left we wanted to return!
Date: Mar/2024
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
Amazing hosts
Just few minutes walk from the trail. Exceptionally lovely hosts who really went out of their way to ensure you had a great stay. Very helpful in planning next day’s itinerary & logistics. Dinner amazing. Highly recommend
Date: Mar/2024
United States (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Beyond friendly and helpful
The hosts were amazingly friendly and helped me with my hike plan. When I realized I couldn’t make the entire mileage in time for a bus, I was driven to see the giant cedar trees which was most incredible. After hosting so very many travelers, the hosts are still so enthusiastic. Their hospitality is remarkable.
Date: Mar/2024
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
Wonderful place to stay
Highly recommend. The hosts were charming, the room was great, food fantastic. There was a full size tub and also a shower in our room with plenty of hot water.
Date: Jan/2024
United States (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Such a wonderful stay! Thank you for your hospitality.
Date: Jan/2024
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Guesthouse Sora @ Chikatsuyu
Great hospitality and meals to remember. Loved our stay here.
Date: Dec/2023
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2023
United States (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Kind hosts and warm welcome
Of the three guesthouses that I stayed on the Kumano Kodo trail, I enjoyed my stay at Guesthouse Sora the most. Although I arrived one hour earlier than check-in time, Naomi-san immediately welcomed me and checked me in. Both Naomi-san and Yasu-san were a wealth of knowledge about the area and Japan in general. A bonus was that Chikatsuyu village was fun to explore. It was hard to leave the warm and friendly Guesthouse Sora!
Date: Dec/2023
Switzerland (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2024
Netherlands (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2024
Taiwan (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Very kind, very comfortable
I was made to feel very welcome at Sora Guesthouse. The space was very cozy and pleasant and Naomi and Yasu were very thoughtful and very helpful. I follow a Buddhist (vegan) diet and Naomi went out of her way not only to meet my needs but also to cook some very tasty food. Naomi also suggested some sites related to Ippen Shonin I would not have known about without her. Thank you! -- Happy New Year 2024, and sorry for the very late review. I truly enjoyed this short visit.
Date: Dec/2023
Philippines (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Warm hospitality
We were warmly welcomed by Naomi and her husband in their beautiful and spacious home. Location is easy to find. A short uphill walk from the main Kumano Kodo trail. It helps that Naomi replies almost instantly to messages and really assisted us to easily locate the inn. Food was excellent and we even had the pleasure of meeting some of the couple's "walking club" friends when they dropped by to welcome us as well. Would stay with them again. Very comfortable stay. Domo arigato, Naomi & hubby !
Date: Dec/2023
Italy (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Perfect place in Chikatsuyu
My husband and I spent a night here during our Kumano Kodo trail. The hospitality was very warm and kind, probably the best we experienced in our stay in Japan! The room was very nice, comfortable and clean, with a big private bathroom. The meals (dinner, breakfast and bento) were delicious!! We loved the convivial dinner with the hosts and the other guests. Naomi and Yazu also helped us to organize the following day trek, showing us helpful information. Highly recommended!
Date: Dec/2023
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Wonderful place to stay
Naomi was so welcoming and helpful.We were very comfortable, the best place we stayed overall.A beautiful home stay.
Date: Nov/2023
United Kingdom (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
Lovely home stay
Really lovely owners and delicious food. Room very comfortable. Small regular bath was the only thing that could be improved
Date: Nov/2023
Singapore (Male, age 70-79)
4.00
Lovely hosts
The 3-room guesthouse has the feel of a family home, filled with personal collectibles of the hosts. The hosts were very cheerful and welcoming and aways ready to answer our questions. The meals were great. Highly recommended.
Date: Nov/2023
Israel (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
The nicest hosts!! So kind!
Date: Nov/2023
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
4.20
Simply the best
This was our very favourite stay with the Amanos. Naomi is a fantastic hostess, she was immensely helpful and prepared for everything we might need from information to amenities. Their house is small and charming (as are the garden and the chickens), the food was absolutely delicious and we enjoyed her company and sense of humor so much I truly did not want to leave the next day. I wish we had planned to stay longer. The guestrooms are nice and tidy, the bath is a normal western-style bath (not spectacular, but still a balm after a day of hiking). We will happily think of our stay here for a long time.
Date: Nov/2023
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
Very kind and helpful hostess, who helped me to plan the next few days of the pilgrimage, and very kindly offered to invite my children to dinner, as their guesthouse did not provide meals. The meal was superb, traditional sukiyaki with plum wine. Such a lot of effort had gone into the meal and the conversation was happy and fun. Thank you!
Date: Nov/2023
Belgium (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
Hospitality 200%
Date: Oct/2023
United Kingdom (Male, age **)
5.00
Wonderful stay
Naomi and Yasu are wonderful hosts, this was the best place we stayed on our Kumano Kodo trip by a long way. Lovely room, great bath, wonderful food, and lots of helpful information.
Date: Oct/2023
Singapore (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Very homely and great hospitality by Naomi and Yasu. Warm-hearted and sincere hosts
Date: Oct/2023
China (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Sweet and memorable stay on way of Kumano Kodo
The hosts are really nice and hospitable. It feel so comfortable to have a bath and set of homemade meal after one day long hiking. The host kindly asked our next day plan and shared kind recommendations. I cannot forget the big chestnutstree in front of the house and the dilicious handmade chestnuts cake (made from that tree!). (5-10 minutes walk distance from the bus station)
Date: Sep/2023
Spain (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Friendly people!
It was a great stay!!! Very friendly people and the place and the food were wonderful (beautiful room). It was rainning the morning we left the house and the owners put us in the bus station with their own car. Very nice people. Ideal to visit with children.
Date: Sep/2023
France (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Exceptionnel
Tout était parfait : l’accueil, les échanges avec nos hôtes, les repas, la chambre ! Une étape magnifique de la randonnée ! Un grand merci !
Date: Sep/2023
Czech Republic (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2023
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Our favorite stay of the trip
Yasu and Naomi are absolutely lovely and we're so thrilled that we chose to stay with them during our hike. Naomi speaks excellent English and she has the most warm, wonderful energy. She has very clearly found a lot of joy in her life and sharing her home and it shows. Yasu is soft spoken, gentle, kind. They are a lovely pair and we could spend days chatting with them about anything. The home is modest, comfortable, and feels very much like it is THEIR home, which we loved. The accommodations in the private room are absolutely perfect after a long day of hiking. Well equipped and comfortable. Meals are home made with care. They're extensive and delicious. The fried tofu and sashimi were the real standouts for us. We can't say enough good things about this place and these people and we'd have to consider coming back to Chikatsuyu on our next trip to Japan just to see these lovely folks again.
Date: Sep/2023
Canada (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
Dual pilgrimage
Warm reception and lovely atmosphere. Very comfortable. Could be better signposted.
Date: Sep/2023
United States (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2023
Australia (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2023
Taiwan (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
Netherlands (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Very welcoming stay, delicious food, super nice hosts!
Guesthouse SORA is a very welcoming place. The food (dinner, breakfast, lunch box) were super delicious. All guests are seated at one table which made the dinner very conversable. I learned a lot about the region, Kumano Kodo and Japan in general. To Naomi and her husband Yasuo: You were the perfect hosts. I wish you the best and hope you can welcome many more hikers in your wonderful home!
Date: Aug/2023
Germany (Male, age 40-49)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
China (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
Lithuania (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Best stay during Kumano Kodo！
We can certainly call this the best stay at Kumano Kodo - the owner of the guesthouse was very intelligent and nice couple - we did enjoy their company a lot. The hospitality was amazing - they have suggested us some activities around the area - such as swimming in the river - which was a relief after a hike, visit the local museum, also gave us some books. The food they prepared was super delicious. Thank you, it was a pleasure to stay at your place and hopefully we will meet you again!
Date: Jul/2023
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Thank you, Naomi-san!
Naomi-san and her husband were incredibly nice and helpful. They were so kind, made us excellent meals, and their house is beautiful. Naomi-san gave us great advice about the the trek, even drove us to the log bridge the next morning. A highlight of my trip to Japan!
Date: Jul/2023
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
3.25
接客
素泊まりでしたが、洗濯時は、ハンガーを貸してくれたり、シューズに蛭よけスプレーを拭いてくれたり、これからのコースの注意事項を教えてくれたり、とても親切にして頂きました。贅沢を言えば素泊まりでもう少し安いと良いなと思いました。
Date: Jul/2023
Italy (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Naomi the best
We had a Great stay and overall Experience at SORA Guesthouse, Naomi and her husband are really great Host, it was a pleasure to chat with them and eat all together, the day after they even gave us a lift with their car to shorten the walk due to forecasted Rain.. We felt like in a family, like on the camino! Their House is beautiful, we had a view of their garden, very relaxing and overall very clean!
Date: Jul/2023
Denmark (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Super
Extremely helpful and friendly owners. Very nice, that Naomi speek so we'll English. We fell so welcome.
Date: Jul/2023
Italy (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Thank u Naomi
Naomi and her husband are wonderful! We love the dinner together and the room is beautiful! Like to stay at home! Thank u again and hope to see u soon!
Date: Jul/2023
New Zealand (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
SORA Chikatsuyu stay
This was the most memorable accommodation that we stayed at on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi walk as our hosts Naomi and her husband are such beautiful people and made us so welcome, with lovely smiles, delicious meals, and even bikes which we rode to a swimming river which Naomi told us about. The rooms were very comfortable. Naomi’s English is excellent so it was very easy to converse . Thank you so much for this beautiful stay. From Jeanne, Mike, Richard, Debbie, Dana, Fraser (all from New Zealand)
Date: Jun/2023
China (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Perfect Day
Perfect Location，Perfect Service，Perfect Meal ，Perfect Advice. Highly Recommend
Date: Jun/2023
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
A lovely place in Chikatsuyu
Naomi-san and her husband were very lovely hosts and generously drove us to Yunomine the next morning mid-torrential downpour as we wouldn't be able to hike that day. The room was cozy with a lovely patio facing the garden, and the meals were delicious.
Date: Jun/2023
Japan (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
近露そらさんと熊野観光ビューローのＨＰについて
近露そらさん お世辞でなく、こんな気持ちの良い宿は初めてでした。 何よりも大仰でなく適度で、しかしながら心からもてなしてくださっている温かさを感じました。 コロナで大変な時期もあったことと拝察します。海外の方が多いことは刺激的かもしれませんが、国による違いも大きく、ご苦労は尽きないことと思います。 しかし最初に記載した高いホスピタリティを維持されていることに心から感服しました。 度々お伺いすることは難しいですが、いつかまた是非お伺いしたいと思います。 熊野観光ビューローのＨＰ 秀逸です。観光案内も適確です。 宿の予約も無駄がありません。
Date: Jun/2023
Canada (Female, age **)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
Germany (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
大変に親切にして頂きました。途中大雨になりご主人が道の駅まで迎えに来て下さり、奥様は玄関でタオルを広げて待ってくださっていました。靴の乾燥、洗濯までさせて頂き非常に快適に過ごさせて頂きました。素晴らしいおもてなしをありがとうございました。
Date: Jun/2023
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Best place we stayed in Japan
The hosts are so nice and we really enjoyed our separate annex in Chikatsuyu. Meals were very tasty and prepared with much care and we enjoyed them all together which made for nice conversation. Highly recommended!
Date: Jun/2023
Belgium (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
Perfect stay !
We really enjoyed our stay by Naomi and Yasau. Welcoming, advices, food, bed and facilities, everything was perfect !! Thanks a lot !!
Date: Jun/2023
United Kingdom (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Our favourite stay of our whole Japan trip
This was the warmest welcome and most comfortable stay we could have imagined. Naomi and Yasauyuki offered us drinks and snacks on arrival, provided delicious dinner, breakfast and lunch box, showed us the sights in the village to explore and took us to see the fireflies at night; all with big smiles. It was wonderful sat around their table in the evening talking to them and other travellers. Bed was really comfortable and facilities clean and easy to use. Great stop on Kumano Kodo. We were sad to say goodbye so soon!!
Date: Jun/2023
Taiwan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
One place I’ll keep with me forever
Staying at Naomi and her husband’s cozy hut was such a magical experience. Some of the favorites are: They were perfect hosts, Naomi made sure to ask me where I planned to walk on the day after and gave me precise indications on how to get there (with hand-drawn charts, tea, and homemade cookies). The common room has an enormous table where all the guests eat together, an ideal way to make some conversation (unlike many other places where the tables were smaller and separate). I ended up having an insightful three-hour conversation with the hosts and other guests about our respective countries. The place was spotless, the food delicious and the view over the rest of the village heals the soul. I was hesitant to leave the next day. Thank you for hosting me, I hope to see you again!
Date: Jun/2023
United States (Female, age 50-59)
4.40
Naomi is the sweetest host!!!!
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
Canada (Female, age **)
4.00
- No subject -
Very welcoming and knowledgeable hostess, who answered our questions about the area and Japan. It was lovely to have this direct contact. Meals were ver good! Pleasant way to meet other travellers around a shared table. Our room did not have solid door, so when the hall light came on at night, it was very noticeable in our room.
Date: May/2023
Brazil (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
Cozy
Naomi and her husband are wonderful persons. The room was very nice and mixed ryokan with modernity. The meal was very good (could be more caloric for hikers). Very satisfied.
Date: May/2023
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Perfect Stay
Our room was very comfortable. Naomi and her husband were very welcoming and hospitable and very open to discussing anything we had questions about. The dinner, breakfast and packed lunch were sensational. Would definitely recommend
Date: May/2023
Japan (Male, age 40-49)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2023
United States (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
Lovely hosts
The couple that runs Guesthouse SORA are just lovely people - I really felt welcomed and taken care of. They were interesting to talk to and very informative about the Kumano Kodo.
Date: May/2023
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
A wonderful stay!
Our stay here was a highlight of our trip. The hosts are just lovely, the room was lovely with comfortable bedding. The home cooked meal was outstanding- nothing to fault ….a great place to stay.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.25
Welcoming hosts with a lovely house they shared with us
Naomi and her husband were so welcoming and so keen to assist us with our onward journey. They prepared lovely home cooked meals and we felt part of the family! Luckily the place can be found on google as we didn't see any signage from the trail.
Date: Apr/2023
Hong Kong (Male, age 60-69)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2023
Singapore (Female, age 50-59)
4.60
Warm host and great food
The clean and spacious room was a great welcome after a day of hiking. Naomi San and her husband also prepared us the e-bike for us to bike to the supermarket. Nice town, serene town, wish we could have more time to cycle and look around the town. The dinner was great. There were 2 different couples together with us and we had great conversation with the hosts and the guests. Great evening and delicious home cooked meals.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Best accomodation that we did on the kumano kodo! Naomi and her husband were friendly, welcoming and agreable. Room very quiet and clean. The food was absolutely amazing! An unforgettable experience!
Date: Apr/2023
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
Lovely hosts
Naomi and her husband are very welcoming and took care of everything for us. Naomi even took it upon herself to entertain our daughter. The food was great and talking with other guest's at the dinner table was amazing. Thank you very much.
Date: Apr/2023
Belgium (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing!
Naomi and her husband are the perfect hosts! They are super friendly and dinner, breakfast and lunchbox were delicious! Our best stay in Japan! ❤️
Date: Apr/2023
Germany (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
My stay at this guesthouse became one of the highlights of my trip due to hosts' hospitality.
The guesthouse is run by a lovely couple that will make sure that your stay is a pleasant as possible. The facilities are tidy and the guesthouse offers everything you need to rest and relax. The food prepared by Naomi was delicious.
Date: Apr/2023
Japan (Female, age **)
3.20
お弁当
お弁当も美味しくいただけました。
Date: Mar/2023
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
Sora
Staying at Sora was one of the highlights of the walk - Naomi is a great host and wonderful cook with fresh home grown produce
Date: Mar/2023
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.20
Very comfortable stay
Very friendly hosts, excellent communication, lovely homemade bread for breakfast
Date: Mar/2023
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Wonderful stay at a local house
What a joy to stay here! It truly felt like staying at someone’s house, and the owners’ friendliness and hospitality are amazing. The wife speaks very good English and tells wonderful stories. The meals were hearty home-cooked food — not gourmet but delicious. I had the vegan option and it was great!
Date: Mar/2023
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Great stay during our hike in Kumano Kodo. Very warm welcome by our hosts. The meals were excellent. Highly recommended!
Date: Mar/2023
Israel (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Wonderful
Wish I could eat that dinner again.
Date: Dec/2022
United States (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Wonderful Stay!
Naomi and Yasu took great care of us. Three delicious meals, prepared (or packed, for the bento lunch) with care. Lots of local ingredients, even locally hunted and stuffed deer sausage! Spacious tatami room, hot bath, and cold beer. They are both former high-tech workers from the city who wanted to live in the country, so we had great conversations with with them.
Date: Nov/2022
Austria (Male, age **)
4.80
Incredible
This was one of my favourite stays in Japan, ever. Our hosts were so incredibly nice, and the prepared meals were amazing - self and locally produced ingredients, loved it. We also had such nice conversations! The house and its surroundings are beautiful, Chikatsuyu really is a lush and relaxed place. I enjoyed my stay so much, highly recommended, I'd love to come again.
Date: Nov/2022
Japan (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
私にとって初めての熊野古道での初めての宿泊地は最高でした！
以前から行きたいと思っていた熊野古道。その最もポピュラーな中辺路を選び、4日間約８８kmの行程を計画しました。 その最初の宿として選ばせていただいたのが、こちらの宿でした。 多雨地帯ならではの初日からの雨。宿に着く頃には体もだいぶ濡れておりましたが、着いたから温かくおもてなしいただき、靴も専用ドライヤーで乾かすこともでき、お食事も美味しかったです。 そしてお部屋も素敵でした。普段は外国人も多いからだと思いますが、和室でジャズも聴けるスピーカーも用意され、私の旅の目的の一つ、南方熊楠に関してなど熊野古道の書籍もたくさんあって、部屋でのゆったりした時間も初日の疲れが癒され、英気を養えました。 旅好きなオーナー夫妻の、お食事時に伺ったお話も、とても楽しかったです。 翌日いただいたお弁当も、美味しくいただき、無事2日目も歩き切ることができました。本当に感謝です。この場をお借りして御礼申し上げます。また伺えたらと思っています。
Date: Oct/2022
Japan (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
くつろぎと優しみのある宿
なによりご夫婦のお人柄が魅力です。 そしてお料理は心のこもったおもてなしで美味しくて。何気ない会話もいつの間にか時を忘れるようでした。 お部屋もキレイにされていて気持ち良く過ごせました。癒しの宿です。 本当にお世話になりました。また近露に訪れる際はぜひリピートしたいお宿です。
Date: Sep/2022
Italy (Female, age 70-79)
4.40
As in a family
A very dear couple give you a kind welcome in English, because the wife is an English teacher. They try to give you the best accomodation and they want you have an unique experience of the place
Date: Aug/2022
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
ご主人と奥様のおもてなしが最高でした！
Date: Jul/2022
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2022
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2022
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
4.80
道中の癒し宿
また近露に訪れたい！この宿に泊まりたい！熊野古道に行きたい！と思わせてくれるような、おもてなしでした！ 会話も楽しく、熊野古道への造詣も深めることができました！ 楽しい体験をありがとうございました！
Date: May/2022
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
Such welcoming and friendly hosts - I would definitely recommend a stay!
Date: Mar/2022
Japan (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2021
United Kingdom (Male, age 30-39)
4.40
More then just walking
The owners really enjoy having travelers stay. You feel this from there first encounter. FREE electric bike rental as well. All the homegrown food you can stomach with a helping of great cultural history for dessert These landlords make this place an integral part of life on the trail and are highlights on our trip
Date: Oct/2021
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
暖かなお宿
お宿のお母さんとお父さんが暖かいです。 お部屋はソファーがあって古道を歩いた後、お風呂入ってビールをいただいてうたた寝に最高でした。お食事は量も内容も私にはぴったり。お弁当も美味しいし、頑張れるメッセージも。全てがお二人の気持ちから生まれているんだなぁと思います。めっちゃおすすめです。
Date: Jul/2021
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Lovely couple and idyllic location
Lovely, spacious guest room with garden view and the upper end of the village. All meals are just amazing with fresh food from the own garden. The hosts are more than caring and elevate the whole experience on a new level. Highly recommended.
Date: May/2021
Japan (Female, age **)
4.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2021
Japan (Male, age **)
4.20
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2021
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
おかみさんのお話
料理よりも、部屋や風呂よりも、何よりも、おかみさんのお話が楽しかったです。
Date: Nov/2020
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
食事なしのプランだったのに、色々出していただいたり、熊野の歴史のお話をしていただいたり、ホントに親切にしていただきました。 また熊野古道歩きに行きたいです。
Date: Dec/2020
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
オーナーご夫妻の温かいご対応で、ゆったりと過ごすことができました。 熊野古道や地域についてお聞きできたのも、貴重な機会でした。 お食事はベジタリアン対応をしていただき、地元お野菜を使った季節のお料理を美味しくいただきました。 心身をほぐしてくれた柚子湯とともに、ご夫妻のご厚意が嬉しかったです。 ぜひまた熊野古道を歩きに行きたいと思います。ありがとうございました。
Date: Nov/2020
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
Lovely stay
We had a lovely stay! The (vegetarian) meals were delicious, most of the food was homegrown. The owners were very nice and spoke English. We really enjoyed our stay!
Date: Jul/2020
Japan (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Wonderful couple that runs this lovely guesthouse.
This was our first overnight on the Kumano Kodo. We were greeted warmly upon arrival, and they had a couple bikes for us to use to get some snacks from the only small grocer in this lovely little town. The three meals (dinner, breakfast and bento box lunch) provided by the couple were great. Highly recommended.
Date: Mar/2020
France (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
- No subject -
a warm welcome on the way
Date: Mar/2020
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
Wonderfull Guestroom Owners
Naomi and her husband were wonderfully welcoming. We turned up dripping wet after a full days walk in the rain, Naomi ran us a hot bath, fed us hot tea and Kit Kat’s which is just what we needed. They invited us into the main room when another guest bought treats and shared treats and tea with us. Dinner and breakfast were great as was the packed lunch Naomi made us.
Date: Mar/2020
Switzerland (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2019
Japan (Female, age 60-69)
4.20
風呂の件
お風呂の排水がなぜか良くなかったです。 お弁当の量が多く、残してしまいます。サイズが選べると、ありがたいです。
Date: Jan/2020
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
Delightful friendly homestay in pretty river town
This was a wonderful stay with a couple who are great hosts who cook a five star dinner for you in their kitchen. There is no onsen but there is a public onsen very close by and Naomi also offers a Japanese bath which she runs for you. The room was a traditional tatami room very large and clean with jazz cds and books and there were bikes to ride around the village and by the pretty river. Naomi encouraged us to do the full 26 km walk over the mountain passes and was happy to get up and serve us a cooked breakfast at 6 am for an early start. We really enjoyed staying with Naomi and Yaz san. Highly recommended.
Date: Jan/2020
Australia (Male, age **)
5.00
Excellence in hospitality
We thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our stay at SORA guesthouse. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and generous. The room was excellent, and the meals delicious and prepared with care. It was a perfect place for our family of 4 to stop for the night on our 2 day walk along the Kumano Kodo from Tanabe to Hongu.
Date: Jan/2020
China (Male, age **)
4.80
a guesthouse like home
The houseowner is very hospitable and welcoming, stay one night in this lovely cozy house is just like live in the travler's own home.
Date: Jan/2020
United States (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Best stay of our whole trip!
Naomi-San and her husband were wonderful hosts and our stay in their home was the best of our trip! They welcomed us with delicious tea and recommendations for the afternoon, and helped us coordinate transportation for the following day. Both dinner and breakfast were perfectly prepared, and the boxed lunch was a welcome rest during our hike. Naomi-San taught us about the holidays and traditions around New Year, and prepared special foods and explained their significance. It was a great honor to be welcomed into their home and we will remember our stay there for many years.
Date: Dec/2019
Germany (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
top
one of the best accommodations on my trip ... very nice hosts :-)
Date: Nov/2019
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Discover the meaning of "Omotenashi" at Guesthouse SORA
We spent two nights at Guesthouse SORA in the village of Chikatsuyu, a short walk from the bus stop and Kumano Kodo trail. Our Japanese-style room was spotlessly clean, with comfortable futons and yukatas. The toilet and separate Japanese bath are shared between two guestrooms, and there was never a problem getting time for an afternoon soak. Meals are sumptuous and enjoyed communally in the big kitchen/dining space. But the best feature of SORA: hosts Naomi & Yasuyuki! They go out of their way to accommodate every need, with green tea and sweets on arrival, and offers to drive me to and from the trail at Takahara and Kobiro. Yasuyuki even took us on a special drive to see the 800-year-old cedars. Naomi speaks excellent English, and both are unusually open and eager to share interests in art, Japanese literature, and the joys of seeing our children grow. I loved staying with Naomi & Yasuyuki and will wholeheartedly recommend SORA to those visitors seeking gracious, generous hospitality and a chance to get to know Japanese people.
Date: Nov/2019
Belgium (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
Singapore (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Female, age **)
4.60
- No subject -
Naomi and Yasuyuki were delightful hosts, keen to ensure we had all we needed. Our room was spacious and futons very comfy (memory foam base!). Shared bath and toilet facilities with guests from the other room. Meals were good. Highlight was our hosts taking us to an annual festival for the small local community which was a wonderful experience (timing is everything!) We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Date: Nov/2019
Germany (Female, age **)
5.00
Best stop at Kumano Kodo
It was a lovely welcome by naomi and her husband. They helped us to plan the next day (english speaking) and served a delicious dinner and breakfast (nice conversation). We can recommend everything :-)
Date: Oct/2019
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Great experience
Staying at Naomi and Yasuyuki's place was a wonderful experience! We enjoyed the enthusiastic stories and they were extremely helpful. We arrived when the typhoon was about start, and Naomi and Yasuyuki really helped us a lot on this unplanned adventure.
Date: Oct/2019
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
A sight for sore eyes after a big hike
We loved staying with Naomi and her husband! This was the most lovely welcome to the Kumano Kodo. Naomi greeted us at the door (after sending us a message checking on us since we were about 20 min later than expected- thank you) and treated us to a hot bath (in a lovely clean bathroom with fresh towels - be aware this is not an onsen) and then a delicious home cooked meal and plum wine and beer. We loved getting to chat with them and with our fellow boarder for the night - whom we ended up seeing throughout the hike in different towns, which was fun for us. Thank you for a generous welcome, Naomi!
Date: Oct/2019
United States (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
Sara guesthouse
I had an incredible time in Chikatsuyu. Naomi from Sora guest house did a terrific job as a host. The food was incredible and the place very beautiful.
Date: Sep/2019
China (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Super nice experience!
I like Kumano Kodo and Guesthouse Sora Chikatsuyu. Mrs. Naomi is quite nice and give me much useful Tips for next day's Hiking.(including the hiking times, the Bus Time, the Weather...) I'm so appreciate.
Date: Sep/2019
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2019
Belgium (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
Heartwarming social hospitality
Amazing home stay at a wonderful couples place. Great home cooking.
Date: Sep/2019
New Zealand (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
Absolutely amazing. We were treated to an exceptional 7 course meal
Date: Sep/2019
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
- No subject -
Very friendly hosts. It was like being part of the family. The food was excellent.
Date: Aug/2019
Thailand (Male, age 60-69)
4.00
Fine Home Stay
Naomi and her husband are very kind and welcoming hosts and Naomi's English was good so was a mine of information of Japan and the region. The accommodation is spacious and comfortable and after our first day on the Kumano Kodo, a great place to relax. Naomi let us do laundry which we really appreciated. The baths are typical of a Japanese home - clean and neat and set to 40 degrees. The food was prepared with loving care and delicious though portions were a bit small given how hungry we were after a full day of hiking to get there and to send us off for the next day - and it would be nice to be able to get a beer to kick back with - even if we had to pay extra - and to get a bigger cup of coffee in the morning. The packed lunch was very basic and rather low on energy foods compared to what other people we met who had stayed at other places. But all this was made up for by Naomi's friendliness and helpfulness, she even gave us a tour of the village early the next morning as she walked with us to get us back on the Kumao Kodo. The one frustration that we really had was that we wanted to get an early start for the hike to Hongu the next day, like shortly after sunrise, so as to enjoy the good weather forecast for the next mooring and to beat the rain that was forecast for the later afternoon. Naomi laughed this off as impossible because she wouldn't be up to make breakfast. She did actually serve breakfast a little early than she said she usually did at around 6:30 but providing accommodation on the Kumano Kodo, and paying the rather high rates that are asked, hosts really should be prepared to serve breakfast and prepare packed lunches so hikers can get off as soon as it is light - if that is their wish. Chikatsuyu is perhaps the most substantial villages on the way to Hongu, and worth spending a little time in even if you just want a bowl of Ramen to get you onto any of the overnight stops. Its a pretty but sleepy place nestled in the mountains with the beautiful Hiki-gawa river running through it.
Price Plan(s)
Statement from the owner to the guests
| Notice |
|---|
| ■ This accommodation follows guidelines to reduce the spread of Covid-19. For Guests ■ Please follow the advice for the public outlined by the World Health Organization when visiting the area. |
Guestrooms
| Western Style | No |
|---|---|
| Japanese Style | Yes |
| Mixed Style | No |
| Other Style | No |
| Number of Rooms | 3 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Guests | 8 |
| Facilities |
|---|
|
● Facilities are shared with owners and other guests.
● The hosy allocates the rooms.
| Amenities |
|---|
|
Baths
| Shared Indoor | Yes |
|---|---|
| Shared Outdoor | No |
| Shared Sauna | No |
| Privately Reserved | No |
- Note
- Bath hours: 5:00-10:00/15:00-23:00● Typical bath in Japanese home.
● A shared bath, for private use take turns with other guests.● With Bathroom Toilet Wash room (1 room)
- How to take a Japanese bath
- In a Japanese style bath, the bath water is used for soaking.
Please wash outside of the bath and use the tub water only for soaking.
Do not pull the plug from the bath tub.
Meals
| Supper |
|---|
| Japanese style, served in dining room from 18:00-19:00 |
| Breakfast |
| Western style, served in dining room from 6:00 (April to September), from 6:30 (October to March). |
| Lunch |
| Japanese style Bento box, pick up at check-out |
- Meal Options
: Possible : Not Possible
Vegetarian 
No Meat
No Fish
No Seafood (other than fish)
No Dashi fish stock
No Dairy
No EggsGluten Free With Miso & Soy Sauce
No Miso & Soy Sauce (Celiac or Intolerant)
Allergies Possible
Others No Raw Fish/Seafood
No Pork
No Red Meat (beef or pork)
No Shellfish
Vegetarianism and gluten free foods are not common in the Japanese countryside. Please double-check the meal options that are possible with each service provider to make sure that it meets your needs.
FISH STOCK: Often being able to eat trace amounts of the ubiquitous Katsuo Dashi (fish stock) makes it easier to find vegetarian options.
GLUTEN: For those who are not intorelant to gluten or Celiac then choosing Gluten Free "With Miso and Soy Sauce" will increase your options.
NOTE: It is difficult and not culturally sensitive to change meal requests, or make new meal demands, onsite when you arrive at accommodations. Meal options must be confirmed during the reservation process and respected during your visit.
Facilities & Services
- Internet
- Free Wi-Fi (Guestroom)
- Free Wi-Fi (Lobby)
- Credit Card
- VISA
- MasterCard
- JCB
- AMERICAN EXPRESS
- Diners
- Discover
- Traveler's Cheques
- Not accepted
- Language
- English
- Others
- If you wish to use wired Internet, please ask the inn directly at the time of your stay.
- Services
- Shuttle service
- Shipping
- Bicycle rental
- Notes
- Entire Facility is NON-SMOKING.
8 rental Bicycles, including 4 electric bicycles (Free)
Access
- Access Information
- Busses run daily to Chikatsuyu from Kii-Tanabe Station, Shirahama and Hongu.
● ~1 hour by bus from Kii-Tanabe Station (bus timetable 1)
● ~1 hour by bus from Hongu (bus timetable 2)
● ~5 minute walk from "Chikatsuyu-oji 近露王子" bus stop
● ~5 minute walk from "Nakahechi Art Museum なかへち美術館" bus stop
Chikatsuyu Village
Kumano Kodo
- Parking
- Up to 2 vehicles (free).
Sorry, "Reservation Requests" are not available at this time.
Set booking times: 7:00–9:30 and 19:00–22:00 daily, Japan Standard Time.
Please check this Article for more information.