Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo
Accommodation
4.76
3rd Place Kumano Kodo
3rd Place Kumano Kodo 2
Owner
Entrance
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sample Japanese style guestroom
Sink
Sample toilet
Sample bath
View from accommodation
Mountain view
Accommodation, Reception locations
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 outside view
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 outside view
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 outside view
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 entrance
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 dining
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 bath
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 sink
Reception 3rd Place Chaya 4 toilet
Description
Mountain Farmhouse
3rd Place Kumano Kodo is an old farmhouse in the Nonaka area near Tsugizakura-oji on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Mr. Tetsuyama has reformed the building while maintaining the authentic charm of the countryside, rich deep browns of aged wood, tatami mats, fusuma sliding doors, and veranda - decorated with antiques.
There are 2 buildings, Main building and Annex. Each of them are for private rental, only two booking per a day.
There is a full kitchen, small bath, toilet, bicycles, and free Wi-Fi; making for a convenient stay.
The congenial Mr. Tetsuyama is passionate about sharing the local mountain culture. He is an organic farmer with the diversity of crops. He would like guests to feel at home -- your personal third place on the Kumano Kodo!
◆Important Check-in and Dining Information◆
Check-in and all guest meals will be provided at the nearby reception building, "3rd Place Chaya4."
Please see image above about the reception location.
※Sorry, NO SINGLE OCCUPANCY accepted from March~May and September~November. Single occupancy requests can only be made between June~August, and between December~February.
| Full Name |
Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo
農家民宿さーどぷれいす熊野古道 |
|---|---|
| Area | Nonaka |
| Type | Minshuku, Rental House |
| Address | 2045 Nonaka, Nakahechi-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, 646-1401
和歌山県田辺市中辺路町野中2045 |
| Map Code | 615 854 176*56 |
| Maps | |
| Check-in | 15:00 - 17:30 |
| Check-out | 9:00 |
Rating & Reviews
4.76
Guestroom
Baths
Meals
Location
Reception & Service
Date: Mar/2026
Thailand (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2026
Netherlands (Male, age 40-49)
4.20
Fine dining in a quiet place on Kumano Kodo Path
The owner Tetsu-san is a unique person and a great chef! He explains all the ingredients and the area enthusiastically. The dinner and breakfast he prepared was unmatched. Also the launch box, which, normally you would expect something ordinary, but even the lunch box was with full of details and colors. The accomodation is right on Kumano Kodo Nakahechi trail. There are 2 spots where you can see a great sunset view. If you are lucky, you can see the wild monkeys around. The place is huge. Big enough for multiple people stay. It is a traditional old Japanese monument, the interior is classic. After sunset only sound you will hear around is the night itself. The accomodation is not in Chikatsuya centrum. After Chikatsuya you have to walk (ascending) about 2-3 km more at least. Great place to stay in, strongly recommend!
Date: Jan/2026
Germany (Male, age 40-49)
4.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2025
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
- No subject -
This was our favorite accommodation because the owner was so friendly and helpful. The accommodation was traditional style and the bathroom while clean was very small. Only downside was that the gas heater was smelly and so we had to turn it off but then got very cold. The meals were sensational and our host explained everything we were eating. Highly recommend this accommodation.
Date: Dec/2025
France (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2025
United States (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
- No subject -
オーナーの鉄山さん自らが営む無農薬農園で育てられた新鮮な食材を使っての夕食と翌日のお弁当はとても美味しかったです。鉄山さんの真心がそのまま伝わってきました。来年もできればお邪魔したいと思います。どうも有難うございました。
Date: Dec/2025
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
Wonderful minshuku with a great host!
The host, Tetsu, is a very interesting person. He renovated the historical house to start this minshuku, so the house is very beautiful and elegant. I was in love with the house but it might not for people who wants a more modern room. Tetsu was also a farmer who grew different things and used them for the dinner and breakfast. And I have to say he is also a wonderful chef. The best part of this minshuku was the location. It's on a mountain top with very few other houses nearby. We were lucky to have a clear sky the night we stayed, and the stars and sky we saw was spectacular! Thank you for having us at your minshuku Tetsu san!
Date: Dec/2025
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Excellent Kumano Kodo Experience!
The care and thought put into the experience here was exquisite. The rom was incredible with the carpentry redone with great care to keep the authentic Japanese inn style, with many amenities included. The food was incredible with much of the food coming from the local area and farm of the owner. The hospitality and friendliness of the owner makes you feel very at home and welcomed. I highly recommend!
Date: Nov/2025
United Kingdom (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Brilliant choice - highly recommend
Beautiful large comfortable house. Classy zen entrance, lovely receptions & bedroom. Wonderful view. Stunningly good food. The owner is a chef and the dinner was just wonderful. As was the breakfast and the bento box. The owner is also a delight - what a very nice man, who really cares. The bathroom is a bit more basic but hey it works. Cannot recommend this place more highly.
Date: Nov/2025
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Amazing Japanese homestay with organic produce and mountain views!
Tetsu-San made us feel very welcome on our second night on the Kumano Kodo. He has restored the traditional Japanese house with such skill and care. The house has beautiful antique furniture, tatami mats, paper sliding doors and views across to the mountains. The house was warm, clean and comfortable. He also shared with us his organic gardening tips, insights about the surrounding landscape and his homemade cooking. The dinner and breakfast he cooked, with homegrown and local ingredients, were absolutely amazing! The dinner was particularly memorable and made with such love and care. A meal I will always remember! The lunch he provided for the next days walking was so good also. Highly recommend Minshuku 3rd Place for any walker on the Kumano Kodo trail!
Date: Nov/2025
Czech Republic (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2025
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
4.80
Delightful
The farmhouse has been renovated beautifully and is right on the trail. The host is very engaging and provided a amazing meal. Highly recommend
Date: Nov/2025
Canada (Female, age **)
4.60
Lovely guesthouse
The Guesthouse was very large and welcoming. Very nice host. Food was very tasty. For us, a bit more volume would have been better after hiking.
Date: Nov/2025
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Comfortable and Spacious Guest House
Tetsu was an amazing host, so full of energy and warmth. The guest house exceeded our expectations - we could not believe how much space we had to ourselves and it was all so clean, serene, and cozy. It was the most comfortable futon we had on the Kumano Kodo. Tetsu so thoughtfully introduced each part of our meals and we especially loved enjoying the plum wine (made by Tetsu himself) and yuzu ice cream. A very special and personal stay!
Date: Nov/2025
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Just amazing! Wonderful host who is very passionate and committed to excellence with his lodging and food. Best meal on the trail - the quality of ingredients including vegetables as well as meat and local sauces was amazing. He could be on a top chef show.
Date: Nov/2025
United Kingdom (Male, age 70-79)
5.00
- No subject -
Very welcoming and helpful (took us to the bus stop), nice location, generally a lovely place to stay.
Date: Nov/2025
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Tetsu was a warm and generous host who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and cared for. The location and accommodation itself was absolutely perfect, the view of the mountains from our window was extraordinary, and the dinner blew us away. The stay was very peaceful, I wish we could have stayed there a few days. This was our favourite stay on our three week trip in Japan and probably the best dinner we had too!
Date: Oct/2025
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
The food was delicious. They went out of the way to help us during a very heavy rain. Highly recommend.
Date: Oct/2025
Italy (Male, age 60-69)
3.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2025
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Fabulous food!
Our host is an accomplished chef and that made the stay extra special.
Date: Oct/2025
Canada (Female, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
Food was superb. Host very informative and kind.
Date: Oct/2025
Germany (Male, age 40-49)
4.75
Best view above the montains
Very friendly host and a little, romantic cottage on the "top"of the hills. Very quiet and with a nice view. Outdoorshower or a bathroom in the reception area. You can sit outside, in front of the house. Everything you need is there.
Date: Oct/2025
New Zealand (Male, age 60-69)
4.80
Exceptional
From Tetsu’s friendly welcome and throughout our stay every aspect was exceptional. An authentic mountain retreat. Superb local cuisine explained beautifully by Tetsu and an attention to detail made this our stand out accommodation on the trail. First class
Date: Oct/2025
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
What a place - highly recommend.
We had a great first night stay of the Kumano Kodo trail. The location gave us great views of the mountain range and the guestroom gave us a true experience of Japanese living. The host was super friendly and is an amazing cook. The food that he cooked up for supper, breakfast and a lunch box were delicious and definitely made sure our bellies were full. Would highly recommend having this accommodation on your list!
Date: Oct/2025
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2025
Switzerland (Male, age 40-49)
4.40
Wonderful accommodation directly on the Kumano Kodo
We stayed here during our Kumano Kodo trip. The house is located directly on the Kumano Kodo trail and has a lovely view over the neighbouring mountains. The host is a friendly person who welcomed us very warmly and explained everything in detail. Our booking included dinner, breakfast and bento box for lunch, all of which are prepared by the host himself. The food was outstanding and, likely, the best food we had during our entire japan trip (including visits to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka). The ingredients were organic and to a good extent locally sourced. The meals were served in a pristine manner. The host explained everything in detail and it felt much like dinning at a Michelin star restaurant (which we have experienced first hand). The accommodation is an old traditional house which has been renovated by the owner to incorporate more modern accessories while preserving its original charm. It is not fancy but still comfortable and clean. The only part which we felt could be improved somewhat was the bathroom which, while still OK, was not quite at the level of the rest. All in all an experience which we can wholeheartedly recommend.
Date: Sep/2025
Italy (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2025
Germany (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2025
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
An absolutely beautiful place to stay, I’m immaculately clean, gorgeous touches in the house and the meals were exceptional.
Date: Aug/2025
Canada (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2025
Spain (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2025
Austria (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
The house is great and the meals are excellent, the owner is very nice and helpful.
Date: Jul/2025
Taiwan (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2025
Netherlands (Female, age **)
5.00
Amazing experience
Great hospitality with amazing homemade local food. The host was very friendly and thoughtful. I highly recommend this place!
Date: Jun/2025
Sweden (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Swedish family
Fantastic host! We felt so welcome, the food was amazing! We loved our stay!
Date: Jun/2025
United States (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Our favorite accommodations along the Kumano Kodo!
Tetsu San was a joy from the beginning. He greeted our family warmly and showed us our accommodations. His hard work and pride of his guesthouses was evident from the beginning! The guesthouse was big, comfy and just beautiful. Flash forward to our meals. Best we had hands down on our journey! The care he took into preparing our meals was just amazing. Tetsu San and his hospitality will leave a lasting impression on our family!
Date: Jun/2025
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
Excellent stay
Highly recommend. Excellent location right on the trail. Accommodations are great. Tetsu is an amazing host and his cooking and hospitality are top notch.
Date: Jun/2025
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Best chef in Japan
You will be absolutely blown away by Tetsuyama-San's cooking and his beautiful home!
Date: Jun/2025
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Minshuku 3rd Place
Brilliant host, magnificent food and wonderful accommodation. The view was spectacular.
Date: May/2025
Spain (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2025
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Best stay on the Kumano Kodo (and in Japan overall!)
We had the best stay at Minshuku 3rd Place. We had a huge 100-year-old restored house all to ourselves with our own kitchen and bathroom which was such a pleasant surprise after a long hike. The owner, Tetsu, was so welcoming and friendly. He is the son of a sushi chef so has a strong passion for food which is clearly shown through the special meal he prepared for us for dinner, breakfast and the packed lunch. Dinner was such a special experience - Tetsu had foraged some vegetables from the mountains that day and cooked it up in such a delicious way for us. He showed such pride and care in the way he presented the dinner, and was accommodating and served us an early breakfast the next day so we could catch the bus on time. This was definitely a highlight of our 3 week trip in Japan and we'd love to visit again one day.
Date: May/2025
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
An amazing place to stay.
The stay with our host Tetsu has been the highlight of our trip to Japan so far. From the traditional home we stayed in that he lovingly restored himself in such a stunning location to the amazing meals he prepared for us, it will be one of our absolute travel highlights.
Date: May/2025
Singapore (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
Superb cook and very nice traditional house
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2025
Mexico (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Minshuku 3rd place in Kumano
Very good location, very great host and the food was amazing a little bit expensive.
Date: May/2025
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
4.25
トイレとシャワー
部屋、立地とも良かったです。オーナーも楽しい人でリピートしたいです。接客トイレが外にあり夜は寒いこと。シャワーも外で熱い湯にならないことのみが難点でした。
Date: Apr/2025
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Great place to stay with delicious food
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2025
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Staying here is a must!
Our host and excellent chef Tetsu is kind, courteous and generous. It was truly a remarkable experience to stay here, and the accommodation is spacious, clean and authentic. It is set in a perfect location having hiked from Takijiri.
Date: Apr/2025
Singapore (Female, age **)
5.00
Amazing home and host
Tetsu-san is an amazing host. He is enthusiastic about sharing his beautifully reatored home with us. He is also an amazing chef.
Date: Apr/2025
United Kingdom (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
The highlight of the trek
This was the best accommodation we stayed on the trek. Our host was informative and enthusiastic, and the food was incredible. The views from the accommodation were amazing and the lodgings had a very authentic feel to them.
Date: Apr/2025
Canada (Female, age **)
4.50
Great Location!
This spot is down the road from where most stop for the night but it gets you ahead a few kms as well as starting the next day at the top of a climb rather than at the bottom. It is right off the trail so you don't have to go anywhere. It is great for an early start the next day for the long distance to get to the shrine. Stayed in the Lodge and it was great with a kitchenette. It is far from the washroom, however, and the washroom is locked overnight so be prepared for that (there is an outdoor shower and porta-potty out back if needed).
Date: Apr/2025
United Kingdom (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Cute old house, great food!
Tetsu-san was super friendly and nice to talk to. You can see he really cares about the house and takes good care of it. He also takes the food he serves his guests very seriously, and explained all the dishes as well as where they were sourced from, and he shared a little glass of local umeshu with us before the meal.
Date: Apr/2025
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2025
New Zealand (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Amazing stop along the Kumano Kodo, with the most delicious food!
We had the most lovely stay here! Tetsu-san is an amazing host, he had renovated the house we rented, which was huge! We had a nice warm and comfortable night. The food was next-level, he is an amazing cook, tailoring dishes to western taste and for our son. It was one of the best meals we have had on our entire trip through Japan. The ice cream was a delicious surprise 😋
Date: Apr/2025
Austria (Female, age 50-59)
4.60
amazing place
This was an amazing place, overlooking the hills. The host was very friendly and a great cook using local produced goods.
Date: Mar/2025
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Great stop!
Tetsu was friendly and welcoming and we had an entire small home to the 3 of us. Plenty of room and very warm which was nice due to the cold & rain. Dinner was served a few steps down the street at the Reception and was incredible. Tetsu is clearly an accomplished chef and his dinner was delightful. Excellent advice on bus connections for the following (rainy) walk day. We highly recommend 3rd Place!
Date: Mar/2025
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
縁側の絶景。
近露エリアよりやや離れた場所にあり、バスでスキップしてしまうエリアらしいのですが、 登った先の景観が素晴らしく、一棟貸の古民家から見える景色に感動しました。 到着時は、昼間から夕暮になる光景を縁側から眺め贅沢な時間を過ごせました。 いただいた食事も美味しく、次の日が雨でバスで行くか、歩くか悩んでいたところ、朝食の時間を30分早めてくださり、 ご主人には大変お世話になりました。
Date: Mar/2025
Germany (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
The Place for a 5* cuisine
A very nice and friendly host and when it’s dinner time he becomes a 5* chef! One of the best food experiences and introduction to the local food and cuisine. Also breakfast and the bento box was fantastic. Thank you!
Date: Mar/2025
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
Favourite meal, favourite room, favourite view, favourite host
I loved this place! At the top of the hill overlooking the valley, my accommodation in a tastefully restored and decorated 120 year old house with views from my front room was more than I ever anticipated. Tetzal (sorry if I've spelt that wrongly) is a fantastic chef and a fantastic host. The meal he created - 9 separate individual dishes surrounding the main dish - was absolutely amazing. For me, this was a highlight of my journey.
Date: Feb/2025
Australia (Male, age **)
5.00
Minshiku
Wonderful experience in a very traditional house. Meals were lovely and a very friendly host. A memorable experience and one that I would love to do again. If you are tall watch your head.
Date: Jan/2025
United Kingdom (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Fantastic Stay
We stayed here after finishing the Kumano Kodo walk and it was the perfect experience. The hosts were extremely warm and friendly and provided an amazing, clean warm and comfy stay for us in their recently renovated apartment. We were also given freshly made, super authentic tasty food. Out of our 3 weeks in Japan this was easily our favourite place we stayed at and highly recommend staying here!
Date: Jan/2025
Italy (Male, age 40-49)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2025
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Memorable Stay with Exceptional Hospitality and Dining
This place was an absolute gem and easily one of the highlights of our trip. After a long day of hiking, arriving here felt like a reward in itself. The surrounding scenery was stunning – the kind that makes you stop and soak it all in every chance you get. The real star of the experience, though, was the dining. It was hands down one of the best meals we had during our entire journey. Our host used an array of homemade ingredients, and it was clear how much pride he took in his creations. Watching his face light up as we enjoyed each dish was such a wonderful part of the evening – his joy was infectious, and it made the whole experience even more special. From the warm welcome to the unforgettable meal, this was more than just a stopover – it felt like a genuine, heartwarming experience. We left full, happy, and grateful for the time we spent there. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for something truly memorable.
Date: Jan/2025
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2025
Japan (Female, age **)
4.20
- No subject -
近露から野中の坂は急で、野中の宿はありがたい
Date: Dec/2024
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
素晴らしい接客と料理
初めて熊野古道を歩き、初日の宿泊がサードプレイスさんでした。ご主人の接客とお料理が素晴らしく、大変満足致しました。また、翌日のウォーキングルートもご主人のアドバイスに従って変更して正解でした。いつまでも元気でがんばって営業いただきたいゲストハウスです。
Date: Dec/2024
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Fantastic
Enjoyed our stay with Mr Tetsu. Our group was two couples and we had an entire house which was beautiful. Tetsu is a wonderful host full of enthusiasm and energy. His stunningly prepared and presented meals were truly sensational. Highly recommend.
Date: Dec/2024
Singapore (Female, age **)
5.00
Best accomodation in my Kumano Kodo experience
Everything was excellent. I didn’t know I paid for the whole house. The premise looked quite new, and everything was clean and very nicely done up. The Kumano Kodo guidebooks in the TV room were really helpful, read them in their entirety for the rest of my afternoon as I concretised my plans for the next few days. The host was so friendly! He treated his guests quite equally which was commendable. He is also a very awesome chef - the meals were delicious and traditional-style. Very grateful for his hospitality. He went the extra mile to explain what each dish was. This was the best accommodation I stayed in for the Kumano Kodo trek.
Date: Dec/2024
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
A highlight of our entire Japan trip
Our family of 4 (with 2 young adult children) just loved our stay with Tetsu. He was friendly, helpful and produced the most magnificent meals including dinner where one of our group counted 18 different dishes. He explained the dishes including where the locally sourced produce came from. The food was all delicious. He can’t have known that it was my birthday but it turned out to be one of the best birthday dinners I’ve ever had. The guesthouse was gorgeous with plenty of space and a magnificent outlook. In the morning, Tetsu drove us to the bus stop and showed us his rice fields where he grew the rice he used for our meals. I can’t recommend this place enough. The bath was average but perfectly functional.
Date: Dec/2024
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Wonderful location with wonderful host
Tetsuo gave us a tour of the 100+ year old house we stayed in, which he had renovated himself. The dinner he prepared was so incredible, as were his breakfast the next morning and the lunch he sent us along with. That lunch saved us on our most difficult hiking day. He was so kind throughout our stay, being at Tetsuo's is a very special memory from the trip.
Date: Dec/2024
Malaysia (Male, age 40-49)
4.60
Comfortable stay and friendly host
Thank Mr. Tetsu for hosting us and preparing the scrumptious meals. The private house is spacious with all the necessary facilities, we had an enjoyable stay.
Date: Dec/2024
United States (Female, age 30-39)
4.75
Beautiful sunset
We had a lovely stay here and enjoyed the beautiful sunset view.
Date: Dec/2024
Canada (Male, age **)
5.00
Couldn’t have asked for more
At the end of a very hard day of hiking, we were greeted by a friendly, smiling, helpful man who treated us so well in every way. The guest house is well equipped and private. But most of all, the host, Tetsu-san, is an amazing cook! The dinner and breakfast were both the best meals we had while staying in Japan. The only disappointment was having to leave so early in the morning in order to get a jumpstart on a very difficult day of hiking.
Date: Nov/2024
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Very Good
Our little house had an amazing view and the owner was extremely attentive and the food was excellent.
Date: Nov/2024
Australia (Male, age **)
4.60
The best host we had on the trail
We were surprised to find that our accommodation turned out to be a whole house, not just a room. And what a house - it was a renovated traditional cottage with a great view of the mountains. It’s right on the trail so very easy to find. Host Tetsu warmly welcomed us and even more effusively farewelled us the next day. Dinner, breakfast and lunch were all delicious and plentiful and accompanied by explanations of the local ingredients. Highly recommended. Thanks again Tetsu!
Date: Nov/2024
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Superb host and guest house, great attention to detail!
Right on the trail path and easy to find. Very large beautiful home that was thoughtfully decorated and comfortable. Host was amazing, an excellent cook and very friendly. The food was amazing!
Date: Nov/2024
United States (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
5 Star Service! Tedso is the best!
After 13.5 miles and 4100ft of elevation gain, we were ready to stay just about anywhere. Minshuku 3rd Place exceeded all our expectations. We stayed in the house nearest to the check in, and it was very roomy, much more space than the 2 of us needed (my wife and I) The AC worked so well, we had to turn it down. Everything was clean and quite accommodating, we even did the laundry (well, my wife did, I just hung the clothes up! The accommodations, terrific as the are, were not even the best part. Tedso is a terrific host, and meals (dinner at 6 and breakfast at 7) were outstanding! Tedso prepares exquisite meals, and explains every ingredient on the menu. He takes such care preparing meals and you can tell he is so proud. While we ate a lot of terrific food in Japan, the meals we had at Minshuku were very special just because they were prepared with so much love. Minshuku 3rd Place was right on the Kumano Kodo trail, so it was extremely convenient. We highly recommend Minshuku 3rd Place.
Date: Nov/2024
Malaysia (Female, age **)
5.00
Wonderful host, huge accomodation and the best meals!
Tetsu is the most gracious host. We had the two bedroom house with a tv room, and kitchen. It was very comfortable and we slept very well. Tetsu blew us away with the dinner, he took the time to explain each dish and the portions were big. It was the best meal we had on the trip.
Date: Nov/2024
United Kingdom (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Highlight of our trip
We were blown away by the beautiful accommodation and hospitality at the Minshuku 3rd place. We didn't want to leave! The food and explanations of Japanese customs and how to approach the meal just added to the experience. Our hike and our stay here was the highlight of our 3 weeks in Japan.
Date: Oct/2024
United States (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
Love the fact that Tetsu grows his own vegetables and what he doesn’t grow, he sources locally from his neighbors! The food was amazing and his service and willingness to help us was wonderful. Do stay here!
Date: Oct/2024
Canada (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Super friendly owner - food 5+ stars
Super enthusiastic friendly owner. Great food, right on the trail.
Date: Oct/2024
Thailand (Male, age 70-79)
4.60
Excellent Service, Food and Facilities
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
Thailand (Male, age 70-79)
4.60
Excellent Service, Food and Facilities
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
Spain (Female, age 30-39)
4.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
Australia (Male, age 70-79)
4.40
Lovely spot
Tetsu was a really good host, providing good meals (even with beer and wine) and comfortable accommodation. He shuttled us to the bus stop the next morning which was much appreciated.
Date: Oct/2024
Ireland (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
The highlight of our trip.
The food here was absolutely outstanding. Tetsuyama San was a wonderful host and the house was authentic and beautiful. The views of the mountains and sunset from the front porch was unrivalled.
Date: Oct/2024
Austria (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
What a beautiful place!
A wonderful place on the Kumano Kodo. We had a renovated house for us alone. Dinner was just like in heaven! Teezu-San was so nice and did his best service. Thank you!
Date: Oct/2024
United States (Male, age **)
4.20
One-man show
Tetsu has done a great job renovating these three akiya and does everything himself: cooking, cleaning, manning the front desk - a true tour de force. We had a whole spacious house to ourselves, and enjoyed the comfortable seating area with a gorgeous view of the mountains at dusk. That view came with a bit of a hike from/to Chikatsuyu, so be forewarned if you need to catch a bus in town. The furniture, kitchen and bathroom felt a bit dated, and our futon was comfortable but nothing to write home about. Tetsu cooks and serves dinner himself in a dining room adjacent to his kitchen. The kaiseki-style food was quite good. We had a table to ourselves, but shared the room with another delightful couple. A bit of soft music would have done wonders for the ambiance, and would have provided each couple a bit of space to talk amongst ourselves. Overall, would definitely recommend this place as Tetsu is a wonderful host and a total character.
Date: Oct/2024
Switzerland (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
A wonderful stay
Felt very welcomed, beautiful and very large room resp. house for private use in a quiet and beautiful area, just on the Kumano Kodo trail. The owner is very friendly, the meal was freshly coocked with local ingredients and very tasty.
Date: Oct/2024
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2024
United States (Male, age 70-79)
4.80
Excellent
This was almost as good as Keyaki. The host was very helpful - even picked ys up with private car at bus stop - would highly recommend
Date: Oct/2024
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Welcoming Host, Spacious Accommodation & Excellent Meals
Exception meals prepared with knowledge and love. Local produce used. Our host was extremely welcoming and helpful. The accommodation was excellent. There was plenty of room to spread out. Full çottage facilities including kitchen bathroom, tv room and washing / laundry facilities. Really enjoyed our stay here.
Date: Sep/2024
Singapore (Female, age **)
5.00
love everything about Third Place Kumano Kodo!
Love how clean and huge this guest house was! Appreciated how meticulous the owner was about cleanliness and hygiene! Meals were an amazing experience and service was beyond exceptional, he prepared everything himself from scratch which was even more amazing. Would love to stay here again!!
Date: Sep/2024
Japan (Female, age 50-59)
4.20
- No subject -
High on ridge overlooking valley and ranges. Three separate accommodation options - one of which is Taisho era 100 year old house quite traditionally furnished, with full kitchen, bath and enough mod-cons (despite isolation, fast wi-fi). Owner is a passionate farmer, very attentive but relaxed; meals are served in same building as reception. Both dinner and breakfast thoughtful, highly seasonal, and delicious. Origin of dishes explained in context to the immediate local region and artisanal makers. This was last night of fortnight on the trail and a wonderful place to end, the small road back to bed lit up under the full harvest moon.
Date: Sep/2024
Switzerland (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
just perfect
Location is just superb and the dinner and breakfast were just outstanding. 10/10 would recommend.
Date: Sep/2024
Belgium (Male, age 30-39)
4.00
Authentic experience
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2024
Spain (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Our best experience in Japan
Everything was perfect! Fantastic owner, incredible food, traditional and authentic house! The best stay in Kumano Kodo.
Date: Sep/2024
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2024
Canada (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
- No subject -
Tetsu is a lovely host who is very accommodating. We had a whole apartment to ourselves. The dinner Tetsu prepared was the best dinner we had during our trip in Japan. Tests took time to explain the dishes.
Date: Sep/2024
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Fantastic Experience
We stayed here the second night of our multi-day hike and it was amazing, the view and facilities are outstanding and very clean and the traditional cuisine was some of the most delicious food I've ever had. Mr. Tetsuyama was lovely and very happy to share his amazing plum wine with us as well as tell us about farming in the mountain region. He was very helpful. Highly recommend.
Date: Sep/2024
Israel (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Kumano kodo- September 2024
Staying at the 3rd place was a great experience! The owner is very nice and provided a very detailed explenation about everything in the house. The rooms are very big and convinient for getting to know Japanese way of living in the countryside. The owner also prepared the food himself and added the local crops. He was kind enough to talk with me a lot about the rural life in Japan and I'm very greatful.
Date: Sep/2024
China (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Nice night on Minshuku 3rd place
over 150 year-old house with Delicious meals, welcoming owner, great amenities. Thanks for those pure and natural, no additives, two years old plum wine. Tasty such good.
Date: Aug/2024
Spain (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2024
Italy (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2024
United States (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Amazing food, such great hospitality
Date: Jul/2024
United Kingdom (Male, age **)
5.00
Surely one of the best places to stop along the Kumano Kodo
Tetsu was great: very welcoming and friendly and he just seemed like a really good dude. Our bungalow was really nice, spacious, clean, comfortable and well-equipped (drying racks, shoe drying machines, dimmer lights, air-con, full kitchen...); the view is great from the front porch (visibility permitting). The shower was solid and the beds were comfortable. Dinner was an extravagant experience with lots of locally-sourced/foraged ingredients.
Date: Jul/2024
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
A really good choice for the Kumano Kodo trail! Easy to find and right on the trail after a long day, enthusiastic host who was also an excellent chef who prepared us delicious meals with local ingredients. So good!!
Date: Jul/2024
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
An Amazing Experience
We had a beautiful time on our second night of hiking the Kumano Kudo. Tetsu the host was one of the nicest and interesting people we met on out trip; a truly wonderful host. He allowed us to check in early, cooked the most amazing home grown food (it helped that his father was a Kaiseki/sushi chef), and made us feel really special. Thank you Tetsu and 3rd Place (*The only one thing I would mention is that our day 3 hike from Tetsu's place to Yunomine was 22km of mountainous terrain and quite a challenging day hike compared to days 1 & 2).
Date: Jun/2024
Hong Kong (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
3rd Place, a Great Place
This place was fantastic. We went on a rainy day and arrived around 5pm. We hadn't ordered food but we able to ask for a dinner box when we arrived as we didn't find anything along the way. We also ordered a lunch box for the next day. I highly recommend getting the meals here as they are delicious. The owner is also super friendly and helpful.
Date: Jun/2024
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
More than 5 stars
I wish I could give this place more than 5 stars. The host was spectacular. His cooking is out of the world. You get an entire traditional house to yourself, which has been perfectly renovated. The views from the property are amazing. This was our favorite place we stayed our entire visit to Japan.
Date: Jun/2024
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
5 stars!
Our favorite spot along the way! Fantastic bath for a rainy day, and plenty of space to hang out and peaceful reading spot- we hiked too fast and we were allowed to check in a little early since there were typhoon rains.
Date: May/2024
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
Our favorite place!
We arrived at the end of a rainy day and swiftly received a very warm welcome by Mr. Tetsuyama-san. It was a little paradise. Mr. Tetsuyama-san so passionate about his place and his cooking. We felt honored to experience his hospitality.
Date: Jun/2024
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
3.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2024
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
Excellent! The best host, wonderful food and our favourite stay along the walk. Couldn’t recommend more highly. Thankyou
Date: May/2024
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
4.60
- No subject -
Great place to stay and get a feeling for authentic Japan. Traditional house with lovely decoration and lots of space. The food was great and the owner explained was very friendly and helpful and explained everything with lots of enthusiasm! We would love to come there again.
Date: May/2024
Netherlands (Female, age **)
4.80
Perfect! Best food in Japan and beautiful house
We were received very warmly, the guesthouse is beautiful and the food prepared by the owner was the best we had during our trip. Really liked it!
Date: May/2024
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Such a special place! Would love to stay here again and the food was unbelievably good.
Date: May/2024
Thailand (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Wonderful place that you shouldn't miss
The host is super friendly and passionate. He made us a wonderful meal with a very detailed introduction to the ingredients and how it was made. The place is also nice, clean and peaceful, it contains everything we need. It seems we have lost in an anime of Ghibli. We love it so much and definitely will choose it again if we return next time.
Date: May/2024
China (Male, age 30-39)
3.50
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2024
United Kingdom (Male, age **)
5.00
Fantastic place and host
This is a fantastic place to stay with a wonderful host, great rooms (even with a deep bath to ease aching legs) and the most amazing food, cooked with care and love. I can't recommend it enough and anyone who has the luck to stay here should do so.
Date: May/2024
Italy (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2024
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2024
Canada (Female, age **)
5.00
Beautiful place to stay!
3rd place was a beautiful place to spend the night right along the Kumano Kodo. The views of the mountains are amazing. The lodge is very clean and the owner is very friendly and accommodating. This was my favorite place that I stayed in in Japan.
Date: May/2024
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Amazing!
Our host Tetsu was warm and welcoming and an incredible chef, he made the most delicious supper and breakfast. The view of the mountain range is absolutely wow and the location is in a quaint street and very beautiful. The accommodation was warm and comfortable, it was a wonderful and very memorable experience. Highly recommend!
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
Great spot to stay in Nonaka
We were very warmly welcomed and shown to our very soacious, self-contained accommodation. The stay was very comfortable, but there was some noise from rodents in the ceiling/walls. The meals were delicious and we were even and we were even able to sample the home made plum wine and locally grown produce.
Date: Apr/2024
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
大満足です。
たまたま空きがあったので、初めて予約をさせていただき利用しました。 滝尻王子から雨の中をやっとの思いで辿り着いたのですが、オーナーのホスピタリティ溢れる対応に感激しました。 食事は素朴ながらもオーナーの食材への愛情が感じるお料理で全部美味しかったです。 自らリノベーションされた古民家は、古くもありながら清潔で気持ちよく過ごさせて頂きました。 頼んだお弁当も量も丁度よく美味しくて、初めての熊野古道が、とても幸せな思い出となりました。 なによりオーナーがおもてなしすることを、喜びとして心から楽しんでいらっしゃるんだなぁと、感じさせていただけたたこと、友人と2人とても良い刺激をもらえました。 余談ですが、翌日は偶然にもオーナーなお知り合いのお宿に泊まることになりそちらでも、大満足のお食事をいただきましたよ。
Date: Apr/2024
Austria (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Overnightstay at Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo
We really enjoyed being at Mr. Tetsuyamas place. He served an amazing Dinner with around 16 courses, very delicious. We felt very at home and welcome, had a great view and a great accomodation with a lot of space. Thanks for having us, would totally come again!
Date: Apr/2024
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Fantastic food and a beautiful view
Really amazing food and friendly host. Would highly recommend! Staying in the older house felt like a special and authentic experience.
Date: Apr/2024
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
our favorite stay on the trip
This was our favorite stay and meal of the whole Kumano Kodo trip. The only issue is that it was our first night so we compared everything else to this experience. The meals were phenomenal. Our host cooked everything himself and took such care. The guesthouse is newly renovated and done beautifully. It was very comfortable and had a great view. Because the guesthouse is farther down the road, it made our first day a few miles longer than we had anticipated but also cut off our second day. The house is right off the kumano kodo route. We felt so welcomed!
Date: Apr/2024
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Excellent experience
We spent one night at 3rd place on our Kumano Kodo walk. The hospitality, accommodations, and food were all amazing and we highly recommend staying here.
Date: Apr/2024
New Zealand (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2024
Mexico (Male, age 20-29)
4.80
Amazing Stay
Amazing guest house after a rewarding walk in the Kumano Kodo. Tetsu is an amazing host that goes beyond the usual and really treats you like family. The room was beautiful and comfortable. The bath included a small tub to relax in hot water after the hike. Food was amazing. Could not recommend this place enough. I would definitely stay here again.
Date: Apr/2024
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
Best accommodation in Japan
We stayed at Third Place during our Kumano Kodo hike and it exceeded our expectations by far. The house is beautiful and the food was absolutely amazing. We still dream of it.
Date: Apr/2024
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Heaven on the Kumano Kodo
We hiked a lot faster than we thought and checked in a few hours before our reservation started and the host was more than happy to accommodate. He spoke really good English and made us feel so welcome! He should also open a 5 star restaurant because his food was delicious. He also told us what each thing was, what the taste and texture was like, and how to eat it. He served us a lot of homemade things like ice cream, tofu, and wine. The private house we rented was very clean and spacious with a breathtaking view. We would have stayed here multiple nights if we had the time.
Date: Apr/2024
New Zealand (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Amazing!
We had a fabulous night at 3rd Place - amazing location, beautiful accommodation and the best meals of the whole week of walking. Our host, Tetsu-san was a delight to spend an evening with, and his cooking is next level. The best and most comfortable night we had all week.
Date: Mar/2024
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
2.75
Cozy, but a few things missing in the small house
We stayed in the smallest house (no meal), which was actually quite cozy and had a great view of the misty hills on the cold and rainy night we were there. Although I knew from the pictures that we would only have an outhouse rather than a proper bathroom, the roof of the outhouse was leaking heavily and the toilet paper was soaking wet due to rain coming in. To be fair, the host told us during check-in that we should use the indoor washroom attached to his office, but this was about 50m down the road - not a great option at night and during a downpour. We were pleased to have our own little kitchen, but I would suggest the owner stocks this with cutlery (chopsticks, forks, spoons etc), a knife and cutting board so that it is actually useable, as well as coffee/tea (which was supposed to be included, according to the hotel’s description). Our room also didn’t have wifi signal, though I think the other houses did. Lastly, it would be nice if there was an option to get a lift to the nearest bus stop or into town at the end of the stay, which didn’t seem to be an option when we were there. Overall, we enjoyed our visit but found there were a few basic things that need to be fixed to improve future travellers’ stays.
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
- No subject -
excellent meals, friendly host. beautiful old house.
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Male, age 70-79)
5.00
Thank you Tetsu for a great stay
Tetsuya (apologies if not spelt correctly) was a great host. Friendly, jovial and welcoming. The accommodation was terrific - spotlessly clean, quiet and comfortable. Our food (dinner, breakfast and lunch box) was top restaurant quality. The best food we had on our month long holiday in Japan). Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo is a great place to stay if you are walking the Kumano Kodo.
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
Outstanding food and service by Tetsu san.
Date: Apr/2024
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
100 year old house and restaurant quality chief with a view
We stayed in 100 year old house with all necessary amenities. The location and view were awesome. The man running 3rd Place had a passion for his Establishment and loved his culinary creations. Fantastic experience with a smile.
Date: Apr/2024
Japan (Female, age 50-59)
4.20
- No subject -
キャンプ場を使わせて頂きましたが、大変満足いくものでした。有難うございました！またの機会がありましたら、ぜひお世話になりたいと思います。
Date: Mar/2024
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
Exactly what you need
Clean and well decorated. Amazing food. Very friendly.
Date: Mar/2024
Singapore (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2024
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
Good view, good food, friendly host
No guest review.
Date: Feb/2024
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Tetsu was a warm and welcoming host. As well as providing excellent facilities - he cooked two delicious meals. All round a comfortable (and conveniently located) guesthouse.
Date: Feb/2024
Japan (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Feb/2024
Taiwan (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Service as 5 star hotel
Arrived in racing day but the kindness and fantastic dinner warmed my heart
Date: Jan/2024
Indonesia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing host, amazing food, amazing view !
We really enjoyed our stay at 3rd place Minshuku, the dinner was the best we have had the whole trip, Tetsu is an amazing host, passionate by the area, we were definitely sad to leave!
Date: Jan/2024
China (Female, age 20-29)
4.60
- No subject -
Fantastic meal and warm welcoming reception
Date: Nov/2023
United States (Male, age **)
4.60
Minshuku 3rd Place
This was our favorite spot of the whole trip, and one we will never forget. Our host was extraordinary -- one of the kindest, warmest and most welcoming people we met in Japan. Our dinner was outstanding, with nearly all the dishes -- indeed, the ingredients -- made from scratch. I would say the same about our breakfast and our bento box lunch. Each dish was prepared with great attention to detail, and all were delicious. Our guesthouse was beautiful and comfortable, with an incredible view. I gave the bath only 3 stars because it was relatively small and not the onsen-style public baths we had elsewhere, but we were able to bathe and have no complaints about it.
Date: Nov/2023
United States (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
The location was magnificent, and the owner was equally amazing; in particular, his food, sourced from his own garden and local producers was beyond compare. He could be his own five star restaurant, if he wasn’t also keeping up his lands and houses, making three meals for his guests, etc. Truly a great and humbling experience, which I hope to visit again someday.
Date: Dec/2023
United Kingdom (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Best vegetarian food. Great location. Lovely host.
Date: Nov/2023
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
Awesome!
The host was so enthusiastic and kind, the living quarters was big, well equipped and very comfortable. Food was excellent. Loved the stay here!
Date: Oct/2023
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
The dinner was a highlight to our trip in Japan. Tatestu was such a gracious and thoughtful host and the beautifully restored guesthouse was stunning not to mention the misty Mountain View. We wish we could’ve extended our stay here.
Date: Dec/2023
Spain (Female, age **)
4.60
A charming Japanese 100 years old house with a stunning view
An unexpected surprise arriving to Nonaka, enjoying this beautiful house for ourselves, sitting on a terrace looking at the sunset over the mountains. The host is really friendly and a wonderful cook.We enjoyed dinner and breakfast.
Date: Dec/2023
France (Male, age 40-49)
3.25
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2023
Fiji (Male, age **)
3.80
Awesome
Minshuku 3rd place was a great accomodation. We very h enjoyed having the spacious and traditional rooms. The meal was excellent and host was very knowledgeable and provided great service The only downside was the bath was not very hot. Would recommend
Date: Dec/2023
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
農家をリノベーションした宿、神棚もあり、田舎に帰った思いがして、久し振りにリフレッシュさせていただきました。 眺めも良く、一泊では勿体なかったです。 出来れば、他の宿泊者と話などしても、良かったな〜と思いました。 なお、親しみやすいオーナーで、大変良かったです。アドバイスをいただき、迂回ルートはキツかったですが、発心門王子まで歩いて良かっです。
Date: Nov/2023
France (Female, age 70-79)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2023
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Comfortable and attention to detail
We stayed in a 120 year old renovated house. We had it to ourselves. It was wonderful! The host was friendly and warm. The dinner was so detailed and tasty. Highly recommend!
Date: Oct/2023
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing food and hospitality
We loved our stay at Minshuku 3rd Place. Our host was so friendly and welcoming. He was passionate and enjoyed sharing his knowledge of food with us. The meals were all exceptional and we loved sampling the diversity of Japanese cuisine. The views from our accommodation were magical. We loved sitting on the covered area at the front of the house looking at the mountains. Our host was also so kind to drop us to the bus stop the next morning. We would recommend staying here to everyone!
Date: Oct/2023
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
The food was just prepared with such care, pride and expertise. The guesthouse was just such a treat. It was so peaceful with absolutely stunning views.
Date: Oct/2023
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
A fine dining experience and a beautiful home
I was greeted by Tetsu, who spoke good English and was an amazing chef. He was kind enough to let me check in early. The house was wonderful with a great view, a great bath and amenities. He even prepared coffee and a jug of cold water in the fridge. At dinner time, Tetsu treated me and the other guests to some amazing food. A huge variety and some complimentary plum wine. He explained each dish and told us about the produce. He also sold sake, beer and other drinks to go with the meal. Breakfast was also amazing. I didn't order the lunch box but I wish I had now. I had a fantastic time. A great place, great food and a very attentive host.
Date: Oct/2023
Australia (Female, age **)
4.40
Delightful!
What a wonderful host is Tatsu! We felt quite at home and the meals we were given were amazing. A lovely place to stay just out of town.
Date: Oct/2023
Sweden (Male, age **)
4.60
Wonderful stay in our own house.
Beautiful stay in our own house. The host met us with a friendly smile and showed us around in our own little villa, which had big windows and a veranda overlooking the mountains.
Date: Oct/2023
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.40
Gorgeous Japanese House in the mountains
Tetsu was SO welcoming and made us feel at home. He has lovingly restored the house we stayed in, which had everything we needed, including a shoe drier as our shoes were wet. He is an excellent chef too and we loved the meals he prepared. Wonderful experience. The bath was very small for my husband & adult son. But the shower was fine.
Date: Sep/2023
Spain (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
United Kingdom (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2023
Netherlands (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
Beautiful house and great host!
We stayed at the 3rd Place guest house as a stop for walking Kumano Kodo. It was beautiful! Definitely the most comfortable house we stayed in during our whole vacation in Japan. It was a great experience to get to know Japanese local life. The view on the mountains that you get from the house is amazing. The host was very welcoming and warm-hearted and he cooked a very elaborate meal for us, explaining every ingredient.
Date: Aug/2023
Belgium (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
The stay with Tetsu-san was superb, he was supernice and helpful. He even drove us to the busstop and made wonderfully tasty, varied and locally sourced meals. Our greatest compliments to Tetsu-san.
Date: Aug/2023
Spain (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing place, amazing host.
We loved everything about it, the place, the host, the room, the food… for sure I will recommend this place to everybody doing the Kumano Kodo!
Date: Aug/2023
Germany (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
- No subject -
The host was one of the cute host we met on our japan tour. A really nice place, best food and good mind set. We would have liked to stay some more days. If we come back one day to japan we would like to visit him again, Do you have his eMail adresse to say him thank you?
Date: Aug/2023
Australia (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Awesome hospitality, Tensu was lovely. Amazing location overlooking the valley.
Date: Jul/2023
Taiwan (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2023
United States (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Minshuku Third Place Review
Tetsu was a great host and the house was in great condition. Amazing food!
Date: Jul/2023
Italy (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2023
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Worth walking for 8 hours (even if you don’t like hiking!)
This place is amazing. Amazing views. Amazing food. Amazing host. Look no further!
Date: Jul/2023
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
Fabulous host , great lodging and food
We loved it here The house is beautiful and charming Whole experience is made by our wonderful host and chef, taito (?)
Date: Jul/2023
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
The host was very kind, helpful and made us feel at very welcomed. The food was delicious and he explained everything he was serving! We had the whole house to ourself which was sweet and the scenery was amazing!
Date: Jun/2023
France (Male, age 60-69)
4.80
Wonderfull
It is probably the place where you have to stay along the Kumano. Tetsu (the owner) is just great very friendly and helpful. We had a typical japanese house with a unforgettable view. The dinner he prepared himself was so amazing
Date: Jun/2023
United States (Male, age **)
4.80
Wonderful hosts. Wonderful location. Fantastic Meals.
Mr. Tetsu and Ms. Izumi are both just wonderful hosts/hostesses. My wife and I were running late, and we called from Chikastuyu to let them know we were still on our way but will be late. Mr. Tetsu offered to drive down and pick us up. My wife was so happy. It had been a long hard hike. The location was wonderful. The guesthouse, which we had all to ourselves, was wonderful as we had a great view of the surrounding mountains from our living room. The meals were fantastic. It was a very memorable stay. It was one of the best memories we have of Japan.
Date: Jun/2023
Spain (Female, age 30-39)
4.75
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
United Kingdom (Female, age **)
4.80
A must stay location
Tetsu san was the perfect host, and our accommodation was wonderful, a traditional building with a brilliant view and a well considered approach to helping us feel comfortable. The food was simply outstanding - much of it home grown, enjoyed even more after our welcome aperitif of home made plum wine. We enjoyed his explanations of the food origin and production. He can cook!!!
Date: Jun/2023
Australia (Female, age **)
4.25
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
Relaxed and roomy.
Large guest house to ourselves and a relaxed atmosphere. The host is indeed dynamic. Good English. Extremely helpful and friendly. Fast and efficient check in. Great dinner and lunchbox. Good value for money.
Date: Jun/2023
Singapore (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
Stay in traditional house
Very comfortable and spacious house for 2 of us. Delicious dinner prepared by Tetsu - lots of local fresh produce! The homemade plum wine was the best I ever had.
Date: Jun/2023
Germany (Female, age 70-79)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
Czech Republic (Female, age **)
5.00
Best place with best meals
We are in love with Minshuku 3rd place, from welcoming owner and a super beautiful and comfortable traditional Japanese house with terase overlooking the Mountain scenery, it was like heaven. And the meal, prepared often from the owners own grown ingredients (including self made Umeshu) was exquisite. Minshuku 3rd place will always have a special place in our memories.
Date: Jun/2023
United Kingdom (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
An absolute gem, best accommodation and food of our Kumano Kudo trip.
Tetsu, the host is absolutely wonderful, friendly, helpful and an amazing chef. The food is very delicious. The accommodation is ultra spacious for 2 people, can accommodate 6 easily. It is en route for Kumano Kudo, everybody has to walk past Tetsu's cafe. We are veyr glad that we have stayed there. Highly recommended
Date: Jun/2023
Singapore (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Great owner great space
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2023
Japan (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
We had a lovely stay here! The staff was super friendly and the food was delicious. The house was comfortable and had an excellent view!
Date: May/2023
France (Male, age 20-29)
4.60
Breathtaking Views and Heartwarming Hospitality
My stay was nothing short of remarkable. The house's location along the trek was incredibly convenient. It was a traditional Japanese house, spacious and providing an authentic experience. However, what truly stole my heart was the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. The host's warm hospitality made the stay even more memorable. They prepared a variety of delicious and diverse recipes, along with a tasty bento for our next day's hike. Engaging conversations were made easy as the host spoke excellent English. I highly recommend this place for an unforgettable experience during your Kumano Kodo journey.
Date: May/2023
Australia (Male, age **)
4.60
Excellent
The room was great with good facilities apart from the toilet being outside. Tetsu was a great host and offered to prepare vegan meals for us even though we hadn’t booked any and they were very good. He even drove us down to the small supermarket to get supplies. Highly recommended.
Date: May/2023
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
We loved our stay with you. The guesthouse we stayed in was beautiful and the food was amazing. Tetsuya went out of his way to make our stay a whole experience, thank you so much!!
Date: May/2023
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
We loved meeting Tetsuya and staying at his place. We booked what we thought was a single room but ended up having a beautifully restored house to stay in for the night. The bedding was very comfortable. The kitchen was stocked for boiling water and making a basic meal. There was a tv with western sitting chairs in one room and Japanese style table with chairs in another. The front sitting area with a view of the mountains was our favorite. The bathroom and toilet area were also nice and easy to use. Tetsuya’s traditional meals were wonderful! Most of what he cooks, he also grows! He’s very proud of his meals and gives a great explanation of them! We wanted to stay longer, and cannot recommend this place enough!
Date: May/2023
France (Male, age **)
4.75
Fantastic Place with a Fantastic Owner!
We didn't know what to expect since we booked the lodge instead of the fancy stays, but we were blown away at how nice the lodge was. The futons were really comfortable and warm. There was an air conditioner. The kitchen was pretty well equipped for what it was - enough to make hot water, and cook a basic meal with the pot and pan. Normally, the lodge has an outdoor shower and bathroom, but it's just unpleasant to be using that in the rain. The owner was also super nice, and allowed us to use the bathroom near the reception since it was raining. Overall, highly recommended!
Date: May/2023
Canada (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2023
Israel (Male, age **)
4.80
Very good and nice hospitality
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Gourmet Meals and Super Relaxation!
We really loved staying at Tetsuya's place! Such a lovely kind man! The rooms were super spacious, warm and comfortable. Great to have a lovely warm bath after a big day of walking! The meals and hospitality are five star Chef quality! Absolutely delicious! Think at least 12 different dishes and a fab plum wine!! Breakfast was perfect! Freshly squeezed orange juice too! We enjoyed a delicious lunch the next day with personalised messages written on each box (so thoughtful) plus some yummy chocolates! This would be a fabulous place to come back to for a holiday and stay longer. Such beautiful countryside here! Thank you for a fabulous stay!
Date: Apr/2023
Sweden (Female, age 60-69)
4.20
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2023
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Beautiful place
perfect rest spot after a long hard day of hiking. The owner was so nice and helpful. The bath was great to soak in to soothe sore muscles. The food was exceptional. comfortable futons and a nice sitting area. Highly recommend
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Excellent Accommodation, Service & Food
Beautiful house right on the main walking route and plenty of space (there were 3 of us and we have 2 rooms to choose from for sleeping). The steel bath was really appreciated after hiking the full day in heavy rain. The owner provided us with a shoe/boot dryer too (never seen these before but so good!). The stand-out was the amazing organic food all prepared by hand by Mr. Tetsuyama. He even makes the tofu himself and the plum wine was great! He greeted us with a really warm, homely welcome and provided us with loads of information about the local area and the trail. Loved this place.
Date: Apr/2023
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
We had the lovelies stay here. Our favourite stay along our Kumano Kodo hike. It’s a beautiful house in amazing location. The owner is a very nice and authentic man who very warmly welcomed us and made delicious meals.
Date: Apr/2023
United States (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
Great location, amazing view, super friendly owner
We had a really good time at 3rd place. The food was amazing, all prepared (and in part cultivated!) by the very friendly host. The location is great with an amazing view on the valley. The only concern is that the building is renovated but large and very old so it might require a bit of warming up with air-con and (2x!) heathers at night. But it's a great if you really want a traditional Japanese experience!
Date: Apr/2023
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
Delightful stay
Our host, Tetsu, was so welcoming and friendly. The food he prepared was absolutely amazing. All fresh and made in his own kitchen, and truly delicious. Our accommodation was very roomy and beautiful, and the location was magical. We loved our time at 3rd Place!
Date: Apr/2023
Belgium (Male, age 40-49)
4.00
- No subject -
The guest house is an old house completely renovated to it's original condition by the owner. If you're looking for western style comfort, than this isn't your place. Also the food was very Japanese, using all local, seasonal products. The owner was clearly proud of his cooking and very eager to share his knowledge and techniques with us.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Exceptional
My partner and I had an incredible stay at the 3rd place. It is located just off the trail and close to town (with a cafe). The host was lovely and cooked an amazing dinner, breakfast, and bento box for the hike, using ingredients from his garden. The facilities were immaculate - the bed was comfortable and the room was clean and well-equipped. I would highly recommend staying there if you’re in the area.
Date: Apr/2023
Australia (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Incredible views and food
This was the best stay of our trip. The host was amazing, the food blew our mind and the view from out of the guesthouse was incredible. The room facilities were amazing and would love to come back again just to stay here. Highly recommended.
Date: Apr/2023
Italy (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2023
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Tetzu is an excellent host, chef and entertainer. We had Kumano third place house to ourselves. Bento lunch and rice balls especially were on point
Date: Mar/2023
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2023
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
- No subject -
とても親切にご対応いただき、快適にすごすことができました。 食事がとてもおいしくて、古道歩きの疲れが癒やされました。 また伺いたいです。
Date: Mar/2023
Taiwan (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
great place
The boss is very handsome, caring and humorous. The room is clean, the food is delicious, and the scenery is beautiful. It is a good choice for trekker who are on the Kumano kodō, and we would like to visist here again.
Date: Mar/2023
United States (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
Tetsu-san is the best!!!!
I can’t say enough nice stuff abt the stay at 3rd place. I was completely unprepared for how nice it was, the quality of the food Tetsu San prepared and the beauty of the area. Couldn’t get higher marks from me, I hope to come back some day.
Date: Jan/2023
Japan (Male, age 70-79)
4.60
- No subject -
ホスピタリティ溢れる良い宿でした。食事も手が込んでいて、コスパ最高の感じです。
Date: Feb/2023
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2023
United States (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Our Favorite Place on the Kumano Kodo
This was such a wonderful experience! We had the entire home to ourselves, and the host was kind enough to drive us to the grocery store to get supplies for dinner, and he filled the bath with hot water before we arrived. We had so much fun sitting at the kotatsu heated table and admiring the view over the mountains. The house is beautiful and the host is so sweet! The breakfast he made for us in the morning was delicious and fresh.
Date: Jan/2023
New Zealand (Male, age **)
4.80
Excellent
Fantastic guest house and a host whose energy and enthusiasm--and cooking-- were truly outstanding. It is possible that some travelers might find his passion a little much, but we loved it! The guest-house itself is beautifully restored with the possible exception of the styling of the small tv lounge.
Date: Jan/2023
Australia (Female, age **)
4.80
Outstanding location, host and food
This was an amazing stay in Tetsu’s traditional home. The location is awesome - incredible sunset views over the hills from the front window. The home is traditional and cosy - had enough heating to keep us warm. Tetsu provided us with an amazing meal of local delicacies - I could not believe the quality. We had to leave early to catch a bus for the first few km of the walk and Tetsu made a lovely breakfast so early and drove us to the bus stop. I highly recommend this wonderful minshuku.
Date: Dec/2022
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Fantastic Stay
This was a fantastic stay on the Kumano Kodo. It was wonderful to have so much space and privacy after a day of hiking. Tetsu was a wonderful host and his meals were delicious. Japanese haute cuisine. Even the lunchtime rice balls were extra tasty. I would recommend highly a stay at Minshuku Third Place.
Date: Dec/2022
Canada (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Tetsu was amazing
Really incredible place!
Date: Dec/2022
United States (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
#1! Not sure why it's called 3rd place!
The host Tetsu was so welcoming! The old Japanese house was charming and comfortable. The yuzu soaking tub was extra nice! The dinner was the best dinner I had in over 2 weeks in Japan!
Date: Dec/2022
New Zealand (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2022
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Beautiful location and house
The owner was incredibly welcoming and friendly. We stayed in the 100 year old house with an astounding view on the mountains. Don’t miss the sunset! Food was excellent too :) The futons were also SUPER comfortable and warm.
Date: Dec/2022
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Absolutely wonderful
Best place we stayed in. Beautifully restored house. The photos do not show just how lovely it is. Wonderful food, amazing views, and a very friendly and helpful host. Try to book this accommodation if you can.
Date: Dec/2022
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
Absolutely delicious food! Such a wonderful experience. The guesthouse was incredibly beautiful, traditional Japanese style with wonderful views.
Date: Dec/2022
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
4.00
Excellent food, lovely room
Tetsu made vegetarian meals, with his own produces with excellent culinary skills. Not only the best vegetarian meals that we had along the kodo, its the best we tried in Kii so far. To those vegetarians, don't miss it!
Date: Nov/2022
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Wonderful Stay
Minshuku 3rd Place was a highlight of our Kumano Kodo hike. Everything exceeded our expectations. The host, Tetsu-san is a great cook and prepared an amazing feast for us (the best in Japan!). The house was spacious and clean. The location was gorgeous with views of the mountains. We want to visit again and stay longer!!!
Date: Nov/2022
Japan (Male, age 70-79)
4.80
中辺路 トレイル
部屋、トイレ、風呂もきれいでゆっくり休めました。ドリンク類の後精算で用意があったら良かったと思います。 夕食、弁当も美味しく頂きました。
Date: Nov/2022
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
4.60
Amazing- dont think twice, just book!
Location: this is a bit of a trek up the hill, past the main part of town, however it is along the kumano trek that you would need to keep doing the following day! If you are taking the bus the following morning (to cut out about 10km of the following day's hike), Tetsu offered to drop us off down the road at the bus stop which was really lovely. Host: the most friendly and lovely person. He was so generous and kind. Very flexible with meal times and happy to make everything vegan. Accommodation: you basically get the whole house to yourself for the night, including a living area, sleeping room, entrance area, another sitting room, dining room and bathroom with toilet. This was by far the most spacious place we got in all our time in Japan. Plus the view from the balcony over the mountains for sunset was gorgeous. Bath: this bath is very small for onsen experiences, but it was really fun. It is a little bath that he pre-fills with hot water so that it is ready for when you arrive. I think this type and size of bath is typical for most Japanese homes, and we managed to both squeeze into the bath! Meals: honestly the best vegan meal we had in all of Japan. He sources all of his food from his farm or nearby farms. Everything was delicious and he even makes his own tofu. Really impressive. The lunch pack was delicious as well, it included some rice balls and a piece of fruit (typical for the size and type of lunch box that you'll get on the hikes).
Date: Nov/2022
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2022
United Kingdom (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Minshuku 3rd Place
Beautiful building and a lovely welcome from Tetsuyama San, the food he prepared was delicious, he also kindly arranged vegan food, the views from the 3rd Place are superb.
Date: Sep/2022
Japan (Female, age **)
4.80
AWESOME
Exceeded my expectations! It was awesome. The owner was friendly and welcoming. Guestroom was so clean and wonderful. I loved the view from the porch - really the best way to spend your evening after a tiring day out walking the Kumano Kodo! Guestroom had great wifi and even AC (though i didnt use it). Dinner was a BIG SPREAD! Loved the entire experience, super recommended!
Date: Jun/2022
Japan (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
素晴らしい家とおいしい食事と親切なもてなし。最高です。
Date: May/2022
Japan (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
素材の味が活きたお料理と古民家でのくつろぎ
オーナーの心あたたかいおもてなし心、ゆったりとした古民家でいただく美味しいお料理。 いうことなし、の宿でした。
Date: May/2022
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2022
Japan (Male, age **)
4.60
Springtime Trip for a Couple
Really charismatic and helpful owner. Very memorable and generous. We would've gotten lost on our hike the next day if he hadn't pointed out the mistake in our plans. Thank you so much! Very relaxing, old house.
Date: Dec/2021
Japan (Male, age **)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2021
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
Tetsu-san an amazing, gracious host. Great farmer and and great cook
Date: Apr/2021
Japan (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
A dream place
This is the most beautiful place in which I have stayed. A complete classical Japanese small house with the most stunning views of the valley in front. The meal was extraordinary, with all bio products from the owner's own vegetable plot, wild vegetables picked in the mountains. and a delicious home made plum vine! The breakfast at location next to the bus stop I needed next was a very nice proposal from the owner.
Date: May/2021
Japan (Female, age **)
4.00
- No subject -
宿泊翌日の行程（近露～本宮大社）について宿主人から適切なアドバイスを頂き、 雨天のなか、本宮まで無事踏破しました。 宿泊時に頂いたお食事は、地域住民の方々が連携し提供されているとのこと、 地の物をさり気なく出して頂いて、ホスピタリティを感じました。
Date: Nov/2020
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
世界遺産隣接にふさわしい素晴らしい宿
手入れの行き届いた清潔な設備、地元の方々の生活が伝わるような食事内容、どれも文句なしです。 オーナーの楽しいお話も興味深く聞かせて頂き、よき旅の思い出になりました。 これからも地元密着のこの宿を末永く続けて頂きますよう祈っております。
Date: Jan/2021
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
大感謝！
全てにおいて、大満足です 何度でも宿泊したい宿でした 是非、友人知人に勧めたいと思います ありがとうございました
Date: Apr/2021
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
景色と食事が最高♪
母と2人で中辺路を歩いた際に利用させて頂きました。景色の良い立地にあり、一棟貸し切りだったので、本当にゆっくりと過ごす事が出来ました♪また、オーナー手作りの夕食が大変美味しく、地元の山菜がふんだんに使われていて、お腹いっぱいになりました！ オーナーさんにとても親切にして頂き感謝です。 最後に、翌日のお昼のお弁当も大変美味しかったのですが、手書きのメッセージがめちゃくちゃ嬉しかったです♪ありがとうございました。
Date: Jan/2021
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
4.80
The host was really friendly
Host was really helpful, but still gave us plenty of space. Just be careful not to miss the turn!
Date: Dec/2020
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Definitely
Great guy, great everything else. Loved it.
Date: Nov/2020
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Fantastic Host
A great place to stay! The host was fantastic. The house was very comfortable with a great seating area to relax and look out at the views after a long day walking. The traditional food was also delicious.
Date: Nov/2020
Japan (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
Fantastic place to stay
The house is really beautiful and dinner was fantastic, taking my dietary needs into account. Highlight of the 5 nights. Lunch from the cafe was a bit disappointing and very, very basic.
Date: Oct/2020
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Serene guesthouse in the hills
It was a really beautiful location and a lovely, quiet house. Breakfast was served at a cafe in Chikatsuru, and that was quite tasty. The dinner was excellent as well. Always grateful for vegetarian accomodations.
Date: Sep/2020
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
wonderful place to stay
I had a wonderful stay here. Food is delicious，room is cosy，you can see lots of star outside the house. peace and love can be found in this house. Hope one day I could go back and stay with my family for a long time.
Date: Sep/2020
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
nice house and hospitality
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2020
Japan (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
- No subject -
一棟まるごとだったので、お部屋が使いきれず、もったいなかったなあ、と。グループで来ていたらちょうどよかったのでしょうが。
Date: Mar/2020
Singapore (Female, age 20-29)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Mar/2020
Canada (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Wonderful Stay
We very much enjoyed the warm hospitality and the excellent organic food at 3rd place. The food along the Kumano was very good, but this was the best along the trail. IT was organic, local, prepared and presented with care and attention. the lodging was spacious and had everything that could conceivable be needed. Would absolutely stay here again!
Date: Mar/2020
France (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Excellent stay
The owner was really forthcoming and the food was excellent (thanks for the Sake tasting session too :-). I quite enjoyed the traditional house decor (futon, sliding doors) and the view was wonderful.
Date: Jan/2020
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.20
- No subject -
Delightful host, lovely old house, delicious dinner. Thank you!
Date: Jan/2020
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Mr Tetsu is a great host! I had a wonderful stay
I love this place! My lodge was recently refurbished (I believe) and I have to say the interior aesthetics and design is amazing. I took a lot of photos of the interior as it inspired me a lot! The food Mr Tetsu prepared for us was also stunning. I really felt like I learned a lot about Japanese cuisine, culture, hospitality, and design just by staying here. I cannot recommend this place highly enough.
Date: Jan/2020
Italy (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Just... wow!
Date: Jan/2020
Australia (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2020
United States (Male, age **)
4.60
Great host!
Charming host in a traditional house in the hills above a tiny town.
Date: Dec/2019
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing stay
I had an amazing stay at 3rd place kumano kodo. It's a renovated original Japanese house and I got the whole house for myself. What a luxury! I also got to experience my first bath in a Japanese family bathroom. Dinner was perfect. Only the best regional ingredients were used, it was such a treat. The owner is a very kind person, thank you for having me!
Date: Dec/2019
United States (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2019
Hong Kong (Female, age 60-69)
4.20
Best meal in the mountain
Mr Tetsuyama is an excellent cook with his best kept secret local recipe.
Date: Dec/2019
China (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Excellent communications and service
I cannot praise the local places we stayed enough, thanks for delicious food and friendly hosts.
Date: Dec/2019
Taiwan (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
A wonderful place to stay after a long day. The house has 120 years history but very cozy, clean, well-decorated and with nice view. the host is very nice also. it's the best stay during my kumano.
Date: Dec/2019
United States (Female, age 20-29)
4.60
Great first night of our trip
The guesthouse was great - we had en entire traditional Japanese house to ourselves. From the sitting area along a window wall we could see the sun setting against the mountains. The food was well presented and yummy (albeit a little cold). Make sure to bring snacks - the lunch provided the following day was 3 rice balls lacking in protein - not enough to get you through a day of hiking.
Date: Dec/2019
United States (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
Stay here!
We loved our stay! The dinner was delicious and our host was very gracious. We had an entire house to ourselves, which was beautiful. The views at sunset from our balcony were also incredible. Cannot recommend highly enough!
Date: Nov/2019
United States (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
Canada (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
Great place, awesome owner, amazing food
Loved our stay here overall. The place was very spacious, food was excellent and the owner was extremely friendly and welcoming. The only downside was that there was no heat outside the bedroom, so it got kind of cold at night.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Wonderful
Tetsu is passionate about his house and food - it was wonderful. We had a great stay there. He drove us to Chikatsuyu for breakfast and to catch the bus in the morning. Highly recommended.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.40
Very nice stay!
Our host was so attentive and even came and collected us when we got lost! Really nice accommodation!
Date: Nov/2019
Canada (Male, age 50-59)
4.20
Renovated Japanese House on Trail
This is not a room in a small hotel it is an entire hundred year old renovated house. There are beautiful mountain views from the living room and a comfortable bedroom. The host was very helpful and friendly. Overall it was a wonderful stay.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2019
United States (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Beautiful old Japanese home
Great home, delicious food and beautiful views.
Date: Nov/2019
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
4.60
- No subject -
Lunchbox - not so good
Date: Oct/2019
Germany (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Wonderful place to stay
Staying one night in the old traditional style Japanese house was a wonderful experience! The host was very very nice and served a wonderful dinner
Date: Oct/2019
Canada (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
Wonderful meal and hospitability
The host of Minshuku 3rd place is very friendly and welcoming. We had the whole house to ourselves, and he made a wonderful dinner, using locallly grown and wild produce. However, our lunch box consisted of a banana and three rice balls, which was quite the disappointment.
Date: Oct/2019
Denmark (Female, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Oct/2019
China (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Five star traditional Japanese house
This house is far far over my expectations. This is not just a room, it's a whole traditional house! Tetsu san is also good at cooking and he provided very delicious dinner, all wonderful food and he also taught some dining culture to us. Highly recommended!
Date: Oct/2019
Netherlands (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
Amazing house all for yourself
The owner, a previous professional tennis player/coach has the dream to live self-sufficient. He therefore prepares you the best home grown and freshly plucked food, he is happy to tell you about it in very good English. The house is big and well designed.
Date: Oct/2019
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Amazing stay!
The house is great and the food and service even better. This was one of our favorite meals of the entire trip to Japan.
Date: Oct/2019
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
3.20
Good except for the location.
The location of this accommodation is good if you are doing the full walk but not if you select the intermediate or highlight walk. Originally we were going to do the full walk but changed our mind due to the heat. This location added on an additional 3.5ks (of uphill walking, mainly on steep hot roads) to the second day walk - Takahara to Tsugizakura-oji. Staying in Chikatsuyu gives you more options in regard to how you want to proceed on day 3 as there are buses from this point. Also no yukata was provided, which was unusual and meant we had to wear our walking gear.
Date: Sep/2019
Germany (Female, age 50-59)
4.75
１日だけではもったいない程
素晴らしい滞在でした。近露から野中まで､かなりの登りでしたが、頑張った価値がありました。食事も美味しく、丁寧で、心がこもっていると感じられました。部屋は清潔で、二人で利用するには大きすぎるほどでした。朝食のカフェもとても感じが良かったです。
Date: Aug/2019
Taiwan (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Owner is great, good room which provides everytning you need from oven to fridge. Dinner is great.
Date: Sep/2019
Japan (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
lovely
wonderful night, lovely house, delicious dinner. just missed some bed linen for futon...
Date: Aug/2019
Spain (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2019
Singapore (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Excellent
Our hostel was extremely hospitable and welcome. We arrived early and he kindly welcomed us in with cold water. Dinner was prepared with local ingredients and delicious
Date: Aug/2019
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Magical place to stay
If you hike the Kumano Kodo, you have to stay at Minshuku 3rd Place! It was an incredible place and wonderful host - beautiful accommodations and amazing dinner that Mr. Tetsu prepared and presented. About 45 minutes further up the trail from Chikatsuyu. We arrived an hour early and Tetsu graciously showed up to our room. Enjoyed the afternoon relaxing on the patio and enjoying the view. For breakfast he drove us back to Chikatsuyu to eat at a cafe there (who also gave us our lunch boxes - best one we had on the trail; highly recommend) and then we drove us back to Nonaka to start hiking again. Can't say enough how much we enjoyed our stay here. One of the highlights of our time in Japan.
Date: Aug/2019
Spain (Male, age 30-39)
4.20
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2019
France (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
One of the best host & meal
Highly recommended, The host speak English and is very kind and Informative, his meal are exceptional, fresh, tasty, and more than fulfilling. I only rated 3 stars for the bath, as non hiker. But if I was hiking I would rate it 5 stars as you'll be able to take a small bath
Date: Aug/2019
France (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2019
United Kingdom (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
Very welcoming and memorable
Tetsu was the perfect host - he was good company, provided a lovely dinner, and went out of his way to make me feel at home. The location is a bit remote, but it was nice.
Date: Jul/2019
United States (Male, age 40-49)
3.25
Great host - a little out of the way
Very nice home cooked traditional dinner - house smelled unpleasantly of mothballs
Date: Jul/2019
Ireland (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Our own little sanctuary
This is one of those places that words won’t do justice to how amazing our stay was here. All I can say is, if you have the chance to stay in Mr. Tetsuyama accommodation then do. We walked past the property by about 20minutes and knew we had probably missed a turn somewhere. A very kind local man with no English helped us out and rang Mr. Tetsuyama who came in his car and picked us up. We where so grateful! The location of the property is a short walk from the main town where most people stay. I know that feeling of being tired from the days hike, but trust me when I say the extra push to Mr. Tetsuyama accommodation is worth it. The property is surrounded by nature and the views are breath taking. The property itself is traditional Japanese style.!you have the whole house to yourself. It was very clean and comfortable and had all that we needed. For our dinner Mr. Tetsuyama prepared a traditional Japanese meal which was out of this world. Mr. Tetsuyama explained to us the ceremony that traditionally happens, and all the food is local produce either grown by Mr. Tetsuyama or his friends. The accommodation is worth staying at for this alone! Mr. Tetsuyama was one of the nicest people we met on our trip. He always had a big smile when we spoke with him and he made us feel so welcome at his property. Our only regret was that we hadn’t planned another night or two at the property.
Date: Jul/2019
Japan (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
Fantastic
Our initial thought was that the price range offered in the area was not very wide. All options are expensive. However the quality met the expectation of the price and the food was some of the best had in Japan. The people are all so friendly and contribute to the amazing experience that is kumano kodo. We are very thankful to the hospitality we received.
Date: Jul/2019
United Kingdom (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Wonderful host, location, home cooked food and incredibly spacious guesthouse. In the middle of nowhere up the hill. A fantastic oasis.
Date: Jul/2019
Switzerland (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2019
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
Incredible host, beautiful home and a lovingly prepared, beautiful meal.
Date: Jul/2019
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Don’t miss that
Everything couldn’t be better. Especially the food by the host was unbelievable!
Date: Jul/2019
United States (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Everything was great!
Great guesthouse right off the kumano kodo. Dinner was fantastic and we really enjoyed spending a little bit of time with the host.
Date: Jul/2019
Netherlands (Female, age 50-59)
4.00
- No subject -
Nice little house. Very friendly owner who served our meal. Nice surrounding.
Date: Jun/2019
Switzerland (Male, age 30-39)
4.20
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2019
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Excellent host. Very clean & comfortable house
The host was very attentive and friendly. The dinner he served us was delicious and beautifully presented. He was able to accommodate our vegetarian diet. I also appreciate the fact that he provided extra bedding so we could have an extra layer of cushioning under the futon. The house was very clean and comfortable. Thank you for a great experience.
Date: Jun/2019
United Kingdom (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
Outstanding hospitality!
A beautiful and comfortable home. Quite perfect in every way. Wanted to stay longer. Absolutely everything we wanted with addition of outstanding hospitality.
Date: Jun/2019
Canada (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Tetsu is a wonderful host
Thank you for a wonderful visit. Everything was better than expected, especially the meals. Tetsu is a fantastic host.
Date: Jun/2019
Australia (Female, age **)
4.20
- No subject -
A beautiful 130 year old renovated farmhouse in a stunning location with a very generous host. Tetsu was very welcoming and we enjoyed a delicious meal and sake. Very comfortable although the family style bathroom was difficult for me to relax in as no shower. But certainly did the job.
Date: Jun/2019
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.60
Fantastic experience
The host, food and beautifully renovated house were great. 3rd Place was well above our expectations - all round a wonderful experience and should not be missed by travelers on the Kumano.
Date: May/2019
Taiwan (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2019
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
期待を遥かに上回る宿！
滝尻王子から熊野本宮大社までの途中宿として利用。平屋の一棟が貸し切りで、安心、気楽に過ごせた。広めの和室が二部屋、やや狭いテレビ和室、広いキッチン・ダイニング、清潔なバス・トイレ等々。オーナーは、対応・説明が丁寧で気さくな方。とにかく予想以上で、また来ることがあれば、ぜひ利用したい‼
Date: May/2019
Australia (Male, age **)
4.40
Minshuku 1st place
Terrific host and housing. Breakfast a letdown but dinner was amazing.
Date: Apr/2019
Germany (Female, age **)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2019
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.60
Amazing place
We had a bit of trouble finding the place, but well worthwhile. We had the whole house to ourselves. A gorgeous 150 year old place, tatami mats & traditional furniture. Host is lovely. Very enjoyable stay. Up a steep hill out of town.
Date: Apr/2019
Hong Kong (Female, age 50-59)
4.20
Highly recommended ryokan
It was an awesome experience to stay at a hundred years old house with generic Japanese decor. Excellent hospitality. Definitely a highlight for our kumano kodo hiking.
Date: Apr/2019
Netherlands (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Apr/2019
Philippines (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Amazing view and stay in a 100 year old Japanese home.
Tetsu-san was very accommodating. We arrived in Chikatsuyu past 5 and he went out of his way to search for us because it was getting dark. The view from his home is spectacular - perfect view of the mountains we walked, beautiful sunset and fresh greens from his home farm. He pre-heated the traditional Japanese bath and prepared a traditional Japanese meal for us to experience. He explained what a traditional Japanese meal is and even served as 2 year aged homemade plum wine. He spent time explaining the history of his home and even showed us his private Japanese toy collection. It was cold and there was a heater to keep us warm. Definitely worth going back to!
Date: Apr/2019
China (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Thanks a lot
That was a amazing night in japen. I like Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo so much. The meals were good. And I was so happy to see stars all over the sky.That was really impressive.
Date: Apr/2019
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Highlight of our trip!
What a unique, authentic experience! We absolutely loved the host- he was very helpful, decent english, and passionate about introducing his guests to his culture. The home we stayed in was absolutely beautiful and located right next to the trail. He offered to pick us up at the bus stop when we arrived (we started the trail halfway between) so that we didnt have to make the trek up the hill. Highly recommend!
Date: Mar/2019
Germany (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Great hospitality and amazing meals!
We could not have asked for a more welcoming and comfortable experience. The (vegan) food was truly special and we loved the explanations about each item prepared which gave us a glimpse into the local culture. Kampai!
Date: Mar/2019
France (Male, age 70-79)
4.60
A beautiful place
Remarkable place, in a very beautiful old house. The owner explains very well the japanese traditions. Dinner was excellent. Unfortunately the breakfast and the lunch box, which were prepared by a local coffee-shop, were not of the same quality.
Date: Mar/2019
Taiwan (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Very nice.
Probably our best stay of our all trip in Japan. The house is beautiful, host is very kind, location is great, meals are very good.
Date: Mar/2019
Australia (Female, age **)
4.80
Wonderful experience
This was one of our favourite places during our stay in Japan. The owner is so welcoming. The house is gorgeous, clean and comfortable with a beautiful view. The supper was delicious. We would love to stay again. Thank you!
Date: Jan/2019
United States (Female, age **)
3.66
- No subject -
This was a very nice house with a kitchen that had a decent selection of pots/pans/bowls etc. It would have been nice if there had been a sign at the door telling us where to go to meet the owner. For the price, I think the owner could have included uncooked rice in the kitchen since the house is a little far from a grocery store. Note: I am not requesting J Hoppers like cooked rice and am okay with uncooked.
Date: Jan/2019
Ecuador (Male, age 70-79)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2018
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
Truly Amazing.
What a wonderful experience staying in the refurbished 100+ year-old farm house. And what an incredible host.
Date: Dec/2018
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Amazing place to stay
This is a beautifully maintained traditional Japanese house situated along the Kumano Kodo trail. We stayed here for one night. It is extremely clean. The owner was friendly and passionate about hosting guests. We had a delicious dinner cooked by the owner using vegetables from his farm, it was one of the best meals we've had. If you have any difficulty finding it, you can use google maps to navigate there, just type in 'Sadopureisu Kumano Kodo.' Unfortunately, I got bitten repeatedly by some relentless mosquitoes while I was sleeping (I am prone to mosquito bites - they love me!) so I would spray yourself with repellent. My partner got bitten a few times as well, but not as severely.
Date: Dec/2018
Canada (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Incredible, couldn't have asked for a better host or food!
We were truly blown away by Tetsu's hosting. The meals were incredible as was this incredible home and location. Couldn't have asked for better.
Date: Dec/2018
United States (Female, age 30-39)
4.60
Once in a Lifetime Experience
I'm not sure where else you'd have the opportunity to spend the night in a centuries-old traditional Japanese farmhouse. The house itself is beautiful and very well restored. The viewing room at the very front was our absolute favorite. Tetsuyama-san is such a welcoming and jovial host, and speaks excellent English. Our dinner was one of the most interesting dinners we had in Japan (or anywhere else for that matter). So many of the dishes we tried Tetsuyama-san either grew the plants himself or foraged for them in the wild. His homemade plum wine was delicious as well! We had a wonderful time chatting with our host at the beginning of dinner; he clearly loves to share information about his culture with travellers and was happy to answer any questions we had. I'd highly recommend Minshuku 3rd Place for a truly memorable experience while in Japan.
Date: Dec/2018
United States (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Amazing Views and Wonderful Minshuku!
This Minshuku blew us away! It is located at the top of a hill and has big windows so you can look out over the gorgeous mountain view after a long day of hiking. The Minshuku itself is a beautiful old traditional home and was much larger and nicer than we expected. The host was super friendly and made us a really tasty dinner. He explained some local traditions and local foods to us before we ate, which was interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend this place to anyone and would definitely stay here again!
Date: Dec/2018
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.00
- No subject -
Guest room is fantastic. View is breathtakingly. This is not a place for kids. Care has to be taken that things doesn’t get knocked over. For breakfast, We were driven to a restaurant (average food) and then driven back to our starting point of walk.
Date: Dec/2018
United Kingdom (Female, age **)
5.00
Wonderful mountain retreat with gorgeous views
Mr Tetsuyama was extremely welcoming. We had a whole apartment to ourselves with a traditional Japanese bath and wonderful view over the valley during sunset. He made us the most amazing meal, with such attention to detail. Our best night stay in Japan! Thank you
Date: Dec/2018
Hong Kong (Female, age **)
4.60
Beautifully restored traditional Japanese home
My husband and I stayed in Nonaka for 1 night at Minshuku 3rd Place which was after our second day of hiking the Kumano Kodo. The property was stunning! The owner, Mr Tetsu restored the century-old buildings himself and added his own personal touches. The result was a beautiful traditional Japanese house with exquisite art pieces and a stunning verandah which opens up to view the misty mountains below. Full disclosure: the property is up a big hill but ALONG the Kumano Kodo path. So you may be tired at the end of day 2 but that means you get an easier start to day 3 with already being on top of the hill. Many other hikers stayed in Chikatsuyu which offers more accommodation options and is right before the hill climb. However, in hindsight I'm glad I booked in Nonaka instead of the next town, Tsugizakura. Because although I had the legs to make it up to Nonaka, it might have been a stretch to keep walking another 30-45 minutes further to stay in Tsugizakura.
Date: Dec/2018
United States (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Most beautiful place we stayed
What an incredible experience! Staying st Tetsu’s one of a kind home was incredible. We didn’t anticipate having the whole place to ourselves and the comfort of the home was wonderful after our second day of hiking. Beautiful, relaxing, and with a host that clearly loves cooking and sharing Japanese culture with his guests. Thank you!
Date: Oct/2018
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
2.40
- No subject -
Nice accommodation but grossly overpriced. We also had no sense of privacy with the owner requesting us to leave one of our doors unlocked (the one that gives onto the bathroom, with nowhere to change or put your clothes). Dinner was ok but really not worth the money; it seemed stingy to only get vegetables and rice and only very small portions of the local organic products (bento box was the quality of a store bought one, not something home cooked and organic at all). Lunch was disappointing and not balanced at all. It was annoying to have to drive to town for breakfast although to be fair the owner showed flexibility regarding where to drop us off afterwards but we felt rushed when after we finished our last mouthful he asked us if we were ready to go and breakfast was too light as we're the other meals. Overall I would not recommend staying there unless the price is much lower, the quality of meals improved and customer service rethought.
Date: Aug/2018
Germany (Female, age **)
4.80
Beautiful house in the mountains
The house is located close to the kumano kodo in the mountains. You have the whole building (which is a 130 years old house in Japanese style) for yourself. The host is very friendly and helpful. He prepared a very delicious dinner.
Date: Aug/2018
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
4.20
最高でした！
サービスが最高でした！ すでに、次行く計画を進めています！
Date: Aug/2018
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
Our host was amazing!
We arrived at Chika hot, tired, hungry and thirsty. We walked to the wrong hotel and were told it was one more hout’s walk. We were so sad that the owner called 3rd place and the owner (Tetsu) drove down to collect us. Very kind. The accommodation was excellent and the meal prepared for us was one of the best we had in Japan. The futon was a little hard because we are not used to them. Tetsu drove us to town for breakfast and our packed lunch and then brought us back to his place on the hill so we could commence day 2. As soon as we started to walk we realised we had lost my wife’s sticks! Tetsu told us to start walking and he would collect them and follow us. We told him not to, but he insisted! After 25 minutes he caught up other us with the sticks. As Tetsu was a little way out of town, it would have been useful to get a map to help us easily find his guest house. A memorable experience.
Date: Aug/2018
Italy (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
Fantastic place, ideal to rest along the hike
It's surely a luxury accommodation, the host is perfect and provides for everything, including a very large and fine dinner, with local ingredients. The space is very big and traditional, offers a perfect rest before the second more tiring day.
Date: Aug/2018
Spain (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
Our best night
It was the best night in our travel to Japan. Reception and attentions could not be better, the location wonderful and the house is tradional and perfect. The dinner was simply unique and fantastic: we won't forget it. After a hard day walking we could not find a better place to rest.
Date: Aug/2018
France (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
- No subject -
Accueil tres chaleureux du proprietaire dans sa magnifique maison avec une superbe vue sur les montagnes. Tres agreable surprise je recommande vivement.
Date: Jul/2018
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
- No subject -
親切にしていただけ、本当にいい旅ができました。
Date: Jul/2018
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2018
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
A gem.
this is one of the best places this world traveller has stayed. :-) Mr. Tetsuyama is awesome! I arrived early , I am a very fast walker, and so he drove me to to the onsen at Chikatsuya! I had such a wonderful, magical time at this place, I really did. As the sun sets and the shadows play on the mountains, you cannot help but sit in silence and contemplation. The house I was in (the 1st one) is spacious, clean,a dream. I had so much fun at the meal, which is one my best experiences (the Sake! it was tasty and smooth, exquisite) during my travels. The food was EXCELLENT. Really. If I lived in that area, I would want Mr. Tetsuyama as my best friend ! :-) What a wonderful, interesting, friendly, hardworking person. I enjoyed the breakfast the next morning as well, I cannot specify enough how Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo is a wonderful experience. It is not simply a place to stay, it really is a fun experience. I did not want to leave! I hope to return to its magic! Thank you so much Mr. Tetsuyama for your gracious hospitality. Bravo!
Date: Jul/2018
United States (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Tetsu is a legend, very cool, great meal, awesome host.
Date: Jul/2018
Japan (Male, age 60-69)
4.00
外人対応の良さに驚きました
熊野トラベルさんの詳細で丁寧なご対応に心から感謝しております。サードプレイスも大変良いところで、癒されました。 中辺路横断の最中は外国の方ばかりに会いました。私は通訳案内士をしておりますので、嬉しい限りでした。また、印象深かった事は、話をした外人は全て熊野トラベルさんで宿をとってアドバイスも受けており、皆さんサービスに大変満足していた事です。 今後インバウンド客を連れてお世話になるかもしれません。その節は是非また宜しくお願い致します。
Date: Jul/2018
United Kingdom (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
Great resting spot before the long hike day
I had a perfect reception at 3rd Place. The guest area is huge and very comfortable, and the owner makes a real effort to give you amazing food and hospitality, I was so grateful for the loaned umbrella for my rainy day of hiking. Great location also, right on the hike trail.
Date: Jun/2018
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2018
Singapore (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Location is good along the way of the trail, easy to find. Host was very warm and enthusiastic, we liked that he shared a lot about his food and culture. Dinner was also very delicious and well prepared. The house was also very clean and well decorated.
Date: Jun/2018
Germany (Male, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jun/2018
Netherlands (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
Fantastic
Very nice house with superb dinner. Very friendly owner. Breakfast hoever not so good.
Date: May/2018
China (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Fantastic local stay! Our host was super nice and fun. Thanks to him.
Date: May/2018
Japan (Male, age 30-39)
4.40
- No subject -
一棟貸しの民宿で広く使わせてもらいました。近くに温泉がありますよとのことで、そこまで車を出してくれて非常によかったです。少し高い場所に立地しているので、登っていくのは大変ですが、そこから眺める景色が非常に美しかったです。機会があればまた利用したいと思いました。
Date: May/2018
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Charming, authentic, and one-of-a-kind. Already planning my next stay :)
Wow, what do I say? It's hard to describe the incredible peace I felt while staying at Minshuku 3rd Place, as well as the beautiful hospitality we felt from Tetsuyama-san. The accommodation is located a bit of a walk from Chikatsuyu, but that's for good reason - the guesthouse is located in the middle of sprawling farmland, and the design really blends the local environment in with modern conveniences. We slept on futons which were incredibly comfortable, and at night the room was pitch black which means you'll definitely get a great night's sleep. However, the highlight was really the food. Tetsuyama-san is a farmer, and the meals are prepared based on seasonal produce that he grows himself. He'll take time to explain Japanese customs and also the ingredients that go into the meal (including pictures of the food before preparation!), which means you really get a rich experience of Japanese cuisine, as well as an appreciation of the seasonal specialties in the area. Tetsuyama-san is also a very passionate person who wants to share more on the beautiful culture of Japan, and is great to have a chat with as well :) This was, hands down, my favourite accommodation along the Kumano Kodo and I can't wait to bring more people back one day. Arigatou gozaimasu, Tetsuyama-san. I will be back for sure!
Date: May/2018
Spain (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
The perfect experience in Japan
When we arrived to Tessan's accomodation we couldn't believe it. We've a beautiful and traditional japanese house only for us! Everything was perfect, clean and comfortable. The house have a private onsen and a kotatsu. Tessan, the owner, is really nice and cozy, and he prepared for us an amazing dinner made of local products.
Date: May/2018
New Caledonia (Male, age **)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: May/2018
Netherlands (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Beautiful minshuku with amazing dinner
This place is located right next to the trail and is absolutely beautiful. The dinner I received - vegetarian, as by my request - was amazing. Host spoke very good English.
Date: May/2018
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
- No subject -
This was a very comfortable accommodation. We had the flat to ourselves. The host was wonderful - helpful but not intrusive. Wonderful dinner.
Date: Apr/2018
Switzerland (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
The host is very friendly and helpful. The house is very traditional and spacious. Beds are very comfortable. The dinner is amazing! It is situated along the hiking route, very convenient.
Date: Apr/2018
France (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
- No subject -
Very nice meals, very nice people and amazing bath. The bento box could be improved by adding more than rice balls
Date: Apr/2018
United Kingdom (Male, age **)
4.75
- No subject -
Fantastic accommodation. Welcoming host and good food.
Date: Apr/2018
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.20
Superb views, traditional old Japanese home, with updated facilities.
Delightful! A little hard to find in the first instance. A lovely experience! Excellent food and a lovely host!
Date: Apr/2018
Netherlands (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Great place and great host
Fabulous house to stay, plenty of room, nice and clean, good mountain view and meals are very delicious. Host was very friendly. We enjoyed our stay very much and highly recommend this place.
Date: Apr/2018
Mexico (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Absolutely amazing place, stay and experience
The stay at 3rd Place Kumano Kodo was a wonderful unique experience that we will remember fondly for many years to come. Our host who spoke very good english went out of his way to make us feel special.. to make sure we were comfortable, to show us the town, where our food came from and was full of energy and good vibes. It goes without saying that dinner was delicious. The place itself is amazing, a large traditional Japanese house with many different spaces. The balcony overlooking the mountains is the perfect place to enjoy afternoon tea. To anyone looking to stay here I would highly recommend this experience.
Date: Mar/2018
Canada (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Staying at Tetsu-san's place was one of the highlights of our trip! His hospitality and kindness is apparent, and we are very grateful to have had the chance to stay here.
Date: Mar/2018
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
Incredibly beautiful place with friendly host
This might be the most beautiful place you ever stay in your life. Mr. Tetsu is also very accommodating and kind, with stories to share. A lovely stay.
Date: Mar/2018
Australia (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
What a special place to stay
I could not believe I had such a beautiful restored Japanese house to myself. It was such a special experience and I feel very fortunate to have been able to stay there. Clean, cosy, well appointed, wonderful food - marvellous to see such pride in providing an outstanding guest experience. Thank you!!
Date: Mar/2018
New Zealand (Male, age **)
4.80
Awesome place
Tetsu kindly welcomed us to his lovely house. Unfortunately we couldn't make the most of the great food he had prepared due to illness but it was amazing. Such a nice and cosy house. Bit of a hike up the hill after a big day but a great view. Thank you Tetsu.
Date: Mar/2018
Canada (Male, age 50-59)
4.40
3rd Place
Very nice house, beautiful location, great host and food. Highly recommended!
Date: Feb/2018
United States (Female, age **)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jan/2018
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
4.80
Special place to stay, very lovely host
Amazing traditional house to stay at. the host also went above and beyond to look after us (including finding us somewhere along the track when we'd walked too far and driving us back to his place!). Dinner was exceptional! Only criticism- breakie was a bit on the light side, we asked for more toast which seemed to be ok and helped. Lunch could also be bigger.
Date: Jan/2018
United Kingdom (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Dec/2017
Germany (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
great accomadation with exceptional views
beautiful house in old japanese style and great food in the evening. we enjoyed the bathroom after the long hike and the view is great! also a very nice host
Date: Dec/2017
Spain (Male, age 40-49)
4.60
The host
The service was incredible. Tetsu was a fenomenal host, he was the best person we met in Japan in this trip.
Date: Nov/2017
Australia (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
Very nice place
The accommodation was comfortable and private, and dinner was delicious with locally made dishes. Breakfast is located at a cafe back along the route, which the host drove us to. The bathroom does not contain a shower hose or head - the traditional practice of scooping water from the bath and pouring it over yourself is required.
Date: Nov/2017
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.60
Lovely rustic location
Our host went out of his way to accommodate our large group of 7 people. We were split over two houses. We enjoyed the explanations of traditional dining. We were taken to the nearby village for a delicious breakfast and then we waited for a bus to drop us at the start of the forest section to walk to Hongu. The location is perfect.
Date: Nov/2017
Australia (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
Mr Tetsu was an excellent host and cook! His place is also beautiful - loved my stay.
Date: Nov/2017
Canada (Male, age 30-39)
4.75
The very friendly Tetsuya-san
We had a great experience staying with Tetsuya-san. We arrived to Chikatsuyu later than anticipated, and the host had been looking for us as it was getting dark outside. He picked us up in the village and drove us to his minshuku a 5-10 minute drive away. Tetsuya-san is a friendly and energetic host, and left a lasting impression on us. We enjoyed hearing about his lifestory and sharing a drink with him. The food that was served for diner was just great! He explained every ingredient that was used and where it came from. Tetsuya-san is proud of and loves to share about japanese food and japanese culture. The minshuku is spacious enough for two couples or a small family of four. It is a typical japanese-style home, with futon beds and shoji doors. There is a kitchen free to use for guests. The home has a great view overlooking the valleys of the region. Tetsuya-san lives in a house right besides the minshuku. The next morning, he droves to a small cafe where we had simple breakfast, and the he drove us to start of the trail. Overall, I really recommend staying here.
Date: Nov/2017
Netherlands (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
Best stay ever!
Wauw! We had an amazing time here! We loved the place and the Owner is the best! He Cooked a perfect meal and was so Nice!
Date: Nov/2017
United States (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Awesome Experience
The host was great and we enjoyed his food and presentation. The best experience of the trip and we loved the private space. Well worth the hike up the hill!
Date: Nov/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
3.40
- No subject -
The owner came to pick us up on the rainy day. The house is very traditional Japanese with nice decor. Could improve a bit on the meal.
Date: Oct/2017
Australia (Female, age 60-69)
4.80
- No subject -
once again a lovely spot and we were again made to feel very welcome. A beautiful traditional house that has been lovingly restored. We were kindly driven to bus stop
Date: Oct/2017
United Arab Emirates (Male, age **)
5.00
Fantastic Minshuku
This place is fantastic! The owner and the amazing restored farmhouse are top notch. The owner genuinely cares for his guests and this shines through whenever you interact with him. Nothing was too much bother for him and he is a fantastic host (great sense of humor too). The house is a real masterpiece and we had the place to ourselves (I think this is standard). It was like having your own 400 year old Japanese farmhouse (with all the modern gadgets mind)! We loved sitting and look out the window as a typhoon passed through! The owner was so caring and gave us tips for how to avoid the worst of the typhoon the next day. The food was amazing. Dinner was prepared with real though (we don’t eat any fish or seafood so the chef had his work cut out for him!). The owner explained all of the dishes (there were so many) and even gave us explanations on the preparation and cooking). The next day for breakfast the owner took us to a local cafe (very cute with a cute owner who went out of her way to help) at which we enjoyed a yummy meal of eggs, toast, fresh fruit, salad and orange juice. It is fantastic that the owner supports the local community in this way. Without a doubt a fantastic place to stay and we would gladly return!
Date: Oct/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.60
Lovely house at top of hill with Kumano Kodo track at door step
Beautiful old traditional Japanese house all to ourselves with sitting and dining area in kitchen. Host was very kind and informative about Japanese food, culture and traditions. Food was delivered by host and prepared for us. The presentation was a work of art, food not only good to look at but very tasty as well. Plus and minus point with location is that we had to continue walking uphill an hour after arriving at the village of Chikatsuyu. Next day, we were already ahead 1 hour as we did not have to start from village. Lovely spot and we were well looked after by host.
Date: Oct/2017
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
Tetsusan was a charismatic and engaging host with a great story who made us feel completely at home on the Kumano Kodo. The house was beautiful, a most spectacular experience to stay at a refurbished traditional farmhouse. We look forward to coming back for a hit of tennis! Would recommend to everyone!
Date: Sep/2017
United Kingdom (Female, age 60-69)
4.50
lovely place to stay
Brilliant house and a great location in the mountains. Our host was very helpful and we had a delicious supper.
Date: Sep/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.80
Just lovely.
We loved this place. Lovely space, great views and a delicious dinner. The owner really went out of his way to assist us. Be aware it's a bit out of town.
Date: Sep/2017
Italy (Female, age **)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2017
Belgium (Male, age 40-49)
4.20
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Aug/2017
Guadeloupe (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
The house is beautiful, and the hospitality truly exceptional.
Date: Aug/2017
United States (Male, age **)
5.00
Best place we stayed for our entire trip!!
Cannot recommend Minshuku 3rd Pace highly enough! Not only was our host an incredibly interesting person, he went out of his way to make our stay as enjoyable as possible and clearly has a great eye for detail. The home we stayed in was a beautiful 200 year old traditional Japanese home that he had lovingly restored entirely himself. Our dinner was incredible, composed from many of the vegetables that our host grew himself. We had the entire home to ourselves, and enjoyed an incredible view onto the valley below. One of the highlights of our trip and an essential stop along the trail!
Date: Aug/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.60
- No subject -
Entertained by our effervescent host who is justifiably proud of his Minshuku. Had a bit of difficulty finding it. Tired, I decided to take a bus but the address provided did not match the location. A very friendly local drove me to the correct address. The evening meal was terrific and I loved the Ume wine. Travelling down to the village and back for breakfast at the cafe was a let-down. The packed lunch was delicious.
Date: Jul/2017
Australia (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Jul/2017
United Kingdom (Female, age 10-19)
5.00
BEST night of our trip
I have nothing but glowing things to say. Lovely owner - we had not booked meals so the owner drove us to the supermarket in Chikatsuyu. Upon hearing we were vegetarian he then drove us to his organic vegetable farm and supplied us with an abundance of produce which we cooked up and served on his beautiful ceramic tableware. We had the entire home to ourselves. Gorgeous Japanese architecture and interior design, very refined. Perfect location - that bit further than Chikatsuyu so our night was more half way between Hongu and Tanabe.
Date: Jul/2017
Netherlands (Female, age 20-29)
4.60
Very kind owner
The owner knows a lot about the area and Japan and it's traditions in general and it's very nice and interesting to hear about Japan in such a passionate way! The guesthouse is very roomy, the service and wifi is great, the food is also locally grown and carefully prepared. He drives you to where you want to start your next walk, very kind!!
Date: Jul/2017
United States (Female, age 20-29)
4.80
Generous host, beautiful setting
Overall excellent experience. We were a group of five and split between two side-by-side small homes. Both had great bathroom/kitchen accommodations. One bedroom did not have AC and was loud during rainstorm as is an older house. Dinner was one of our favorites. Host is generous and fun to chat with. Recommended!
Date: Jul/2017
Netherlands (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Lovely host
Tetsuke did everything to accomodate us. Hot bath was ready. Let us taste his home made plum wine and shiso fermentation. Very nice house. Drove us to Chikatsuyu in the morning because of the heavy rainfall. Good advice about the route.
Date: Jul/2017
Japan (Male, age 20-29)
5.00
A perfect lodging option
After a long day walking 14km along the kodo, reaching this place was wonderful. It has great views and the owner really helped us - chatting with us about local customs, taking us to the local onsen, giving us advice about the walk and above all making a delicious dinner including homemade ponzu and vegetables picked that very morning. Thanks so much!
Date: Jun/2017
United States (Female, age **)
5.00
Lovely traditional house
After one of us fell ill, our host came to pick us up from the bus stop and got one of our beds ready. He was a very attentive and thoughtful host who made our stay really nice. The food and the homemade plum wine were absolutely delicious! The house is very traditional, with many tatami mats and sliding doors. No A/C, but a television and a small bath. We very much enjoyed sitting on the screened porch in the evening, drinking tea and looking out over the valley.
Date: Jun/2017
Canada (Male, age 30-39)
4.60
Fantastic traditional homestay
Our host Tetsu-San was most gracious, explaining everything in detail and making sure our stay was as comfortable as possible. It was lovely to spend a night in a traditional Japanese home and the front porch was a delightful place to sit, read and relax. In the morning, Tetsu-San drove us back down to the village for breakfast at a local cafe.
Date: Jun/2017
United States (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Minshuku 3rd Place
Minshuku 3rd Place and the host are amazing! Lovely, cozy accommodation and fantastic meals! The host prepared a wonderful, organic meal from his farm and made sure every detail was attended to. Thank you for sharing your lovely guest home, a true respite after a day of hiking!
Date: Jun/2017
United States (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
Fantastic
We had a wonderful time here. Our host was so kind, and personally came and picked us up and then guided us to our destination after we left. He personally brought our dinner to our home and it was one of the best meals we have ever had in Japan. He was so kind and attentive. He even specially set up a washing machine for us. The home is beautiful and the view is stunning. The only minor issue was that the bento we picked up for our long, 11 hour hike was a little meager. We would definitely stay again, though.
Date: Jun/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
Like sleeping on clouds.
What a fabulous place to stay after walking all day. We were running late so the guesthouse manager had people looking out for us and gave us a lift to the property where a bath was ready for us. Had the best sleep on soft futons and would have loved to stay longer.
Date: Jun/2017
United States (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
The Greatest Guesthouse
This was the most beautiful location we stayed at on our three day trip on the Kumano Kodo. Testuyama's house is airy, spacious and gorgeously decorated. It was nicer than my own home and done in exquisite detail, with large open doors to the outside. Beautiful bathrooms, excellent furniture and one of our party got a full tour of his organic garden. Tetsuyama spoke excellent English, gave us an incredible welcome and even drove into town to buy us beers. The rest of the trip we compared our other housing to 3rd place and everyone agreed this was our best stop. The only thing that could be better was if breakfast had been a little bit larger, but otherwise this was an ideal stay.
Date: May/2017
United Kingdom (Female, age 20-29)
3.20
Great little house, disappointing breakfast and lunch.
The house was a lovely, private oasis after a long day of hiking the kumano kodo. The owner of the house was incredibly friendly and taught us a lot about Japanese culture. The bento style dinner that was served was enjoyable, but we were extremely disappointed by the breakfast and especially the lunch. The lunch consisted on three little rice balls, a slice of banana and a tiny bit of processed fish. After 15km of walking, this is far from substantial and given the extra money we paid for the lunch box, we would have expected something at least on par to the simple bento boxes you can purchase at train stations. We were left wondering how the owner could think that such a lunch was acceptable.
Date: May/2017
United Kingdom (Male, age 20-29)
4.60
Awesome stay - Highly recommended
Great guest house right on the kumano kodo trail. Beautiful old Japanese style house. Host is very friendly and helpful. Highly recommended!
Date: Apr/2017
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
- No subject -
I felt so welcome here, and in such a wonderful location and house. Food was amazing and the home made plum wine the best I have ever tasted! Thank you so much, and I hope to visit again.
Date: Apr/2017
Spain (Female, age 60-69)
5.00
The highlight of our accomodations!
The stay at 3rd Place Kumano Kodo was absolutely fantastic: The warm welcome by Fumio, the very, very beautiful house, the situation high above the valley - and the incredible dinner! Breakfast in the village was also very good and Fumio went out of his way in order to make us catch the bus on time yet still show us some interesting traditional points before. We can highly recommend this place and would love to go back there one day!
Date: Apr/2017
Singapore (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
- No subject -
Tetsu is a wonderful host and it felt like we had a whole house to ourselves. The breakfast spot was perfect too! Testu looked after us so well!
Date: Apr/2017
Australia (Female, age **)
4.40
Great location and a very friendly host!
It was a pleasant surprise that we got the entire house to ourselves! It was by far the most spacious accommodation we had for the whole of our trip. Tetsu was welcoming, kind and generous. The kotatsu in the living room was heaven after a rainy day we had. Great and beautiful accommodation
Date: Apr/2017
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
5.00
- No subject -
This is just the most gorgeous place and setting. The meals were delicious!
Date: Mar/2017
Japan (Male, age 50-59)
4.60
Fantastic!
A real treat to be allowed to stay in such a lovely home, and to have customs and food explained by our host in such a helpful and friendly way
Date: Mar/2017
France (Male, age 40-49)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2016
Hong Kong (Female, age 60-69)
2.40
暖房
暖房がなかったので、遅くまで寝つかれなかった。
Date: Feb/2017
United Kingdom (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Beautiful location and view, hospitable host, delicious food
We arrived at the edge of the village to find the 3rd Place located at the perfect spot to enjoy the view and sunset. Tetsu the host was very friendly and helpful. The rooms are very spacious and well equipped, and we had a delicious meal carefully prepared by Tetsu's friend. All in all it was an amazing and very enjoyable stay.
Date: Feb/2017
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Stay in a stunning traditional home - if it's a farm, it's a luxury farm
When we read 'farmhouse', we weren't quite sure what to expect. But this is a farmhouse to Japanese standards, which means it almost looks like a museum. It's very very pretty, extremely well appointed and gives you the opportunity to see what a traditional home is really like in Japan. Bathroom is traditional style as well, which was the first time in our trip that we tried it, it was fun. But just so you, this is not with shower. It is called Minshuku but you actually have the whole house for yourself so it's very private, and very cosy. The owner who lives a little bit further in the village speaks good English, he is very interesting to talk to, we learned about what farming is like in Japan and he is very welcoming. He brings you dinner made with lots of organic vegetables from his farm in a superbly presented manner. It was our best meal in Japan. And he gave us some of his homemade plum wine and raspberry juice, which were delicious too. In the morning, he comes to pick you up to drive you to breakfast to a very cute cafe. It was a perfect stop on the Kumano Kodo.
Date: Feb/2017
United States (Male, age 20-29)
4.60
Pretty Great
Amazing host was a lot of fun to talk to. No other guests while I was there. Would have liked a shower but the onsen was steaming hot and very very comfortable. The food was all organic and delicious but there wasn't anywhere near enough of it for a westerner. Make sure you buy extra food for the trail.
Date: Jan/2017
Australia (Female, age 20-29)
5.00
- No subject -
Again we arrived early and again he was very accommodating and came and opened early. The house was so beautiful we felt very lucky to have it all to ourselves. The table with the heater was great and kept us so warm. We felt very relaxed to just sit inside after walking in the rain all day. The beds were so comrtable I felt like I was sleeping on the softest mattress. The owner was very friendly and we enjoyed batting to him over dinner. He offered us some of his amazing home made wine which we enjoyed and food was delicious as well. We loved our night.
Date: Dec/2016
France (Male, age 20-29)
4.80
- No subject -
Amazing view, great place, everything is extraordinary.
Date: Dec/2016
Australia (Female, age 30-39)
4.60
The best place we stayed!
Host Tets gave us a warm and enthusiastic welcome. We had the run of the beautiful and comfortable farmhouse, with free home-made umeshu, tea and sake all available. Food was good, including local produce, and the drink was excellent!! Beautiful views from the front sunroom. Very comfortable futons. Overall an excellent place to stay, with one of the warmest and friendliest hosts I've ever met!
Date: Dec/2016
United States (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Private accommodation; great for families with children
We felt very fortunate to have been able to find this place. We were specifically looking for a place that would accommodate our 1 year old. Many of the other Minshuku do not allow children. This minshuku is for one family at a time(up to 6 people) so it's a really great set-up because you get the entire house to yourself. The house is impeccable. Very nice traditional house but the finishes are all new. There is even good WIFI! There are several adjoining tatami rooms, a kitchen and bath, bathroom area. As above, everything is clean and well maintained. There was no heater in the rooms but this wasn't an issue with the kotatsu in one room and thick warm comforters on the futon beds. The host is very kind and gracious and he has visions of expanding to another house next door and even an outdoor onsen. The meals are as follows: for dinner, you get a large bento box with lots of assorted fish, meat and vegetables. The owner uses only organic vegetables and apparently he has the minshuku next door cook the food that he grows in a farm nearby. He also made his own miso soup which was delicious. For breakfast, he drives you down to a small shop that you passed by the previous day in Chikatsuyu-oji. Breakfast was also really great. Then the shop gives you a bento box for your hike. This consisted of rice balls and a few other assorted items, which was really delicious. Another factor to consider when booking - after a long walk carrying a 12 kg baby, we were happy that the accommodation was closer in distance than some of the other accommodations in Tsugizakura-oji (several km further or if you are hiking the Kumano Kodo, about 4-5 markers further down the road. Overall a great experience - while the other minshuku on the trail looked nice, we would definitely come back to this one if we ever do this trail again.
Date: Nov/2016
United States (Male, age 50-59)
4.80
Excellent private house
A wonderful experience in this renovated and modern house. Personal service by owner and excellent meal. Best place we stayed during the hike!
Date: Nov/2016
Australia (Male, age 60-69)
4.80
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2016
Japan (Female, age 60-69)
4.40
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Nov/2016
Australia (Male, age **)
4.20
Loved it
Loved it. Tetsu was great and we really enjoyed the dinner he provided. Lovely views of the countryside. Comfortable, well set up. Simple but effective bath, plenty of hot water.
Date: Oct/2016
Norway (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
- No subject -
The host, Tetsu-san, was very kind and competent. The view from the inn was breathtaking and the house itself was marvelous.
Date: Oct/2016
Australia (Female, age 40-49)
5.00
Charming Minshuku meticulously maintained
Again another perfect place to rest our weary heads after 16 km walk. The food was delicious and our host extremely kind and helpful. Good views over the mountains and lovely onsen style bath to rest sore muscles! Great value for money.
Date: Oct/2016
France (Female, age **)
4.60
- No subject -
No guest review.
Date: Sep/2016
United States (Male, age 30-39)
4.80
The Best experience we had in Japan!
We visited Japan for 3 weeks and this was the best experience we had - all because of the great host, beautiful house inside and out. Host was very welcoming and warm and shared great stories with us about his life and experiences. Spoke great English and has worked hard to make a beautiful peaceful place to stay near his farm. He shared some organic vegetables in our food and some homemade organic plum wine with us. The family antiques in the house along with the artwork and other artifacts made his house so beautiful. Modern lights and kitchen and incredibly clean place. Loved it!!!
Date: Sep/2016
Germany (Male, age 60-69)
5.00
Home away from home
Wonderfully renovated house, very cordial and friendly reception. Owner speaks very good English. Arrangements for meals are very well organised.
Date: Sep/2016
Austria (Female, age 40-49)
4.60
Perfect place to stay!
This was a most lovely place to spend the evening and the night. Mr. Tetsuyama was very attentive, the meal (although "only" a dinnerbox) was good and the minshuku is very comfortable, tidy and very traditional.
Date: Aug/2016
Spain (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
Beatiful place to stay
we loved the place and our host! Mr. Fumio Tetsu was very attentive and nice with us before- during and after our stay in his beatiful house. he made us feel as home. Every thing was clean, confortable, beatiful.
Date: Aug/2016
Spain (Male, age 30-39)
5.00
Highly recommended
This is probably one of the best places we have stayed in. Tetsu was really kind and an interesting person to chat with. We would like to express our deep gratitude to him.
Date: Aug/2016
Norway (Female, age 30-39)
5.00
- No subject -
I have stayed 1 night in Minshuku 3rd Place Kumano Kodo and I liked it. It is an old Japanese house in nice surrounding. When I stayed there, I was the only guest and had the living/sleeping area for myself. Nice reception.
Date: Jul/2016
Canada (Female, age 20-29)
4.00
Very good service !
I had a very good service at Minshuku 3rd place. The residence was clean and facilities were appropriate. Would go back anytime !
Date: Jul/2016
Australia (Male, age 40-49)
5.00
Stay at the 3rd Place Kumano Kodo
My son & I really enjoyed our one night stay with Mr Tetsuyama at the 3rd Place Kumano Kodo. We arrived exhausted from our first day of hiking and Mr Tetsuyama welcomed us and had a hot bath ready in no time. Dinner was delicious and he had breakfast organised so we could get away early for our next day of walking.
Date: Jul/2016
Australia (Female, age 50-59)
4.75
- No subject -
Beautiful but tricky to find. NEEDS TO BE ADDED TO MAPS.
Price Plan(s)
Statement from the owner to the guests
| Notice |
|---|
| ■ This accommodation follows guidelines to reduce the spread of Covid-19. |
Guestrooms
| Western Style | Yes |
|---|---|
| Japanese Style | Yes |
| Number of Rooms | 6 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Guests | 12 |
Japanese style rooms: 3
Western style toilet: 1
Annex
Japanese style rooms:3
Western style toilet: 1
Lodge
Western style rooms:1
Outdoor shower: 2
External toilet: 1
Campsite
Outdoor shower: 2
External toilet: 1
| Facilities |
|---|
|
| Amenities |
|---|
|
Baths
| Shared Indoor | Yes |
|---|---|
| Shared Outdoor | No |
- Note
- Can be used anytime.
Meals
| Supper |
|---|
| Japanese style, served at reception "3rd Place Chaya4" from 18:00 |
| Breakfast |
| Western style, served at reception "3rd Place Chaya4" from 6:30-8:00 |
● All meals will be provided at the nearby reception building, "3rd Place Chaya4."
Please provide dietary requests in advance.
- 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
- Not accepted
- Language
- Conversational English
- Services
- Shuttle service
- Luggage storage
- Bicycle rental
- Notes
- ● Washing machine (Free)● Rental Bicycle: Free for 3rd Place guests.(500 yen half day, 1000 yen for one day)● Full kitchen (Free to cook own meals)(Refrigerator, rice cooker, toaster, etc.)● Free drinks (Japanese Tea・Black Tea・Coffee)● Possible to stay two or more nights in a row
Access
- Access Information
3rd Place is located along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route between Chikatsuyu village and Tsugizakura-oji.
● ~40 min walk from Chikatsuyu village
● ~20 min walk from Tsugizakura-ojiThe minshuku is located just west of Irorian Minshuku past number 30 signpost.
Busses run daily to Chikatsuyu village and Nonaka Ipposugi bus stop.
● ~1 hr by bus from Kii-Tanabe to Chikatsuyu-oji (bus timetable 1)
● ~1 hr 10 min by bus from Kii-Tanabe to Nonaka Ipposugi (bus timetable 1)
● ~50 min walk from "Nonaka Ipposugi 野中一方杉" bus stop
Nakahechi Map
Kumano Kodo Takahara~Tsugizakura-oji Map
- Shuttle Service
- Shuttle service can be requested on site.
*Some dates may not be available.
- Parking
- Free parking available for up to 3 vehicles.
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.