Unfortunately, even though it is a non-smoking property, the common space smelt very strongly of cigarettes. A combination of the smoking space out on the upper patio and I’m guessing either the owner or her husband(?) smoking out front and the smoke getting in through the doors was the reason for it. Thankfully we could not smell it in the rooms much. Futons were only ok. I love a good futon, but it has to be super plush for me. These ones were a little too thin, so I was having some pain while sleeping. But not the worst I’ve slept in. Honestly, I was a little bummed about these two points, because I really enjoyed staying at this property otherwise.

Owner is beyond amazing. The definition of the extreme hospitality you’ll find in Nikko! Even though breakfast is not included, she made us the most wonderful breakfast including fresh persimmons from her own tree! Even gave us small gifts that she made herself! House is beautiful and very well maintained. Super clean! Cleanest hostel / home share I have ever been to. Rooms are massive! Large living space and a separate large bedroom all to yourself. Plus the shared kitchen and washrooms. And location is great! Super close to the Train station / main bus loop, but far enough to be nice and quiet!

Stayed in October 2024

Mariko San, the owner, had shown us the true hospitality of a Japanese. Knowing that we could not make it to visit heritage area due to traffic jam, she personally drove us there. Even though it mentiioned that the room rate did not include breakfast, she still prepared healthy breakfast for us for our 3 days' stay there.

Stayed in October 2024

There was only 1 bathroom where 3 families/groups are sharing one. The other thing is that the quilt and bedding were a bit worn out and pilling, causing slight itchiness. but overall the facilities and commdity provided is sufficient and additional.

Our bookings doesn’t include any breakfast but the owner was very friendly and made us fruitful breakfast everyday. She provided very helpful tourist information when we arrived.

Stayed in October 2024

The beds were a bit hard, but this was to be expected of futon beds.

Amazing host who will go out of her way to make you feel at home. She gives an amazing breakfast which is to be recommended, if i could pay her for it, i would. She even drove us back to the train station, which we were thankfull of because of the bad weather. Would recommended this place to everyone

Stayed in October 2024

The tatami mats and pillows were not the comfiest.

The host, Mariko, was incredibly friendly and helpful. We were fortunate enough to enjoy some of the best breakfasts I've ever eaten, with an amazing variety of components. Mariko also accommodated my vegetarian partner's needs for breakfast. She also gave us a lift to a restaurant for dinner one evening when it was a bit further away.

Stayed in September 2024

Thank you, Mariko for a wonderful stay! We stayed her for one night night and Mariko’s exceptional hospitality was very much present from start to finish. Everything is very clean and well thought out. We received a complimentary breakfast which was delicious and little gifts she did make herself which we very much appreciated. I would recommend staying here to anyone visiting the Nikko area as great stay and super convenient location. The host also takes time to talk you through all attractions with handy maps being available, which tickets to buy and buses to take. Thank you again, Mariko for everything you did for us - such a pleasure meeting such a hospitable and kind person!

Stayed in September 2024

The hostess was amazing , made us breakfasts even tho we didn’t pay for it and gave us handmade gifts!!! She took us to the train station with her car and was so so nice

Stayed in September 2024

Nothing.

The Hosts were so nice and helpful. Drive us to the restaurant and help us call them for reservation.

Stayed in August 2024

The futon beds, they are a bit hard, but we knew that in advance.

Feels like a homestay at a very friendly and helpful couple. They do everything to make your stay at Nikko good. I definately recommend.

Stayed in July 2024

The owner was such a lovely person, she went through the sightseeing of Nikko and showed us the house. The room was typical Japanese style with futon. She was so kind and prepared and offered a delicious breakfast, she also gave us an origami as fortune gift

Stayed in June 2024

Such incredibly kind management. The woman who works there is a treasure.

Stayed in April 2024

I could not think of anything to improve.

The owner is the most friendly and helpful Japanese woman we've ever met. She provides you with all the information to make your stay as comfortable as possible. She is a real sweetheart.

Stayed in May 2024

Nothing

Everything, the room it's spacious, you have everything you need the room it's exactly like the photo. It's near to the train station and it's has two supermarkets near by. And a delicious Japanese breakfast before heading out. The host she is very attentive to us, very friendly. We enjoyed being in her home.

Stayed in May 2024

Nothing

The host was the best! She prepared a delicious breakfast when it was not in the plan, and sent us to the station upon checkout. Loved the little gifts she got us too!

Stayed in May 2024

The owner is very friendly and helpful. She showed us places where we could eat and gave us a map with the bus timetable. Rooms are spacious, beds are comfy. I think it was my best sleep in any hotel I have ever stayed in. There is also an electric heater under the futon, if you need one. Just like other reviewers mentioned, In the morning we were given a breakfast that was not included in the price. It contained meat, bread, multiple vegetables and fruits. Again, the best breakfast I ever had.

Stayed in May 2024

My friend and I had the most amazing time at Stay house Arai. Our room was very clean, comfortable and cozy. Mariko was an incredibly nice host, gave us a lot of information on how to get around Nikko and great recommendations on things to do and places to eat. She also surprised us with an amazing breakfast and some super cute little charms and origami as gifts. The only downside: we ended up regretting only staying for two nights! Would definitely book again.

Stayed in May 2024

The host was so lovely. She made us breakfast even though it wasn’t included, made us presents, explained us about the area, and even suggested to drive us to train when we left. The room was very clean and nice.

Stayed in April 2024

Share bathroom . restroom

Healthy Breakfast, great host's hospitality

Stayed in April 2024

N/a

The location is really convenient: in Nikko’s centre and near the station. The room and house had everything needed. The best thing about this house is the owner: this incredible lady. She is the sweetest and most generous person. Her husband and she cooked us delicious breakfast. She tried her best to always help us.

Stayed in April 2024

the hospitality of the owner - extraordinary

Stayed in March 2024

The host was so friendly and helpful. she drove us in her car to the train station to pick up bus passes and made us an amazing breakfast! wonderful hospitality. I would definitely recommend staying here!

Stayed in March 2024

Everything was perfect. Amazing experience. Perfect location, the house was very clean and comfortable and the breakfast was delicious Thank you so much

Stayed in March 2024

Host is very nice. Location is near bus stop and jr train station. Big room is so much clean. Overall of this place is very good.

Stayed in February 2024

Very good

Stayed in March 2024