Unnojuku Furusatokan

I had no idea what to expect when we booked "an old home that had been renovated as an inn." That could run from "great" to "creepy." Unno-wa is in another class: it is FANTASTIC! You enter from the historic street into a beautiful little courtyard. Registration is in the building on the left, which is also the door for the restaurant, Dining Raku (see separate review). The innkeeper is a delightful young man who has travelled throughout Japan but liked this area and settled here. He was chosen by the city to manage this inn. That's right, the city has a hand in this facility - in fact the whole community does. The property was donated by an obviously wealthy gentleman and turned into a centerpiece in Unno-Juko. Once part of the road which connected the Japan Sea side with Edo (Tokyo) this area was a way station which, in the 1700s, had over 90 inns in a few short blocks. To enjoy this area, of course one must also stay the night - therefore this inn was opened. It only has two rooms: one for 4 guests, another for 2. But what accomodations! Redone in the old style to exacting standards but with today's contemporary touches (like really nice toilets, ofuro and strong wifi). The accomodations are two story, with a receiving room and the tatami sleeping room downstairs, and the upstairs sleeping area (two beds), toilet and ofuro upstairs. Both levels are amazing: upstairs features the open beam ceiling with the beams signed by the craftsmen and the owner. Downstairs the tatami includes a 4 inch thick tempurpedic like foam mattress under the futon, for extra comfort. The rooms are beautifully appointed both with art but also amenities: a k-cup coffee maker, a tansu full of all the things you might need (combs, toothbrushes, etc.) and some traditional card and board games. The stay includes dinner and breakfast (see separate review) and if you are up to it at 0700, the innkeeper will take you on a historical walking tour. The innkeeper and his staff are what make the place truly special. In a country known for its gracious hospitality, this team is full of superstars. (English is limited, however) There is no onsen on site: that requires a taxi ride 15 minutes up the mountain to Yurarinkan. But history and a welcoming community is right outside your door. The inn was only opened in July 2015. My advice: go now before it is "discovered" and becomes impossible to book!