5 Top-Rated Minshukus in Shirahama-cho, Nishimuro-gun, Wakayama Prefecture, Kinki

Good stay, kind and helpful owner

Spent one night here before heading to Tanabe to begin the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage. Owner picked us up at the airport and then gave us a short orientation drive around the area including a scenic view. He pointed out the grocery store, bus station, beach area, etc. A minshuku is a homestay, essentially. Nice people, but heavy smokers. If you don't like cigarette smoke, this will be a problem. Once we were in our room (#3) we no longer smelled the smoke. The wifi works downstairs. There's a TV room and a dining room with fridge and water kettle for guest use. Japanese-style (squat) toilets on 2nd floor. Western toilet on first floor. Room was traditional tatami mat with futons. Very comfortable and quiet. I like the small koi pond in the courtyard with tanuki figure! Onsens (bath) are on the ground floor and segregated by sex. Tub is sized for one person and is hot mineral spring water. This isn't a hotel so some things that would be replaced or repaired quickly in a 5* hotel aren't addressed in a home. If you want a 5* hotel, there's a Marriott in town. If a traditional Japanese homestay is more your speed, you'll likely be comfortable here (smoke smell aside). Location is prime for visiting nearby beaches and also the Minakata Kumagusu Museum (highly recommended). Bus station about 5 minutes walk away.