壱 THE HOSTEL — Hotel in Minami

I came to Ichi no Hostel with sore feet and a tired heart, thinking I’d just rest up for a night before pushing on. Instead, I found something rare a pause that's a small vacation in itself.

The staff and owners are genuinely kind like, really kind. Not just "smile for reviews" kind. They’ll chat if you need it, leave you be if you don’t. The beds are comfy, the showers hot, and the shared space invites conversation without forcing it.

The owner, is a legend in the quietest, most grounded way. One minute we’re chatting about the tides over coffee, the next thing I know we’re loading boards into the van for a spontaneous surf trip down the coast.

We came back salty and sun-kissed, and that’s when the real magic started: the cocktail menu. I don’t know what Umi puts in those drinks besides shiso, yuzu, and a whole lot of love but every single one felt like a tiny celebration. We sampled the whole specials list like it was a spiritual rite. (Spoiler: it was.)

By the time I climbed into bed, limbs humming and spirit full, I realized I hadn’t thought about “making progress” all day. And somehow, that was exactly the progress I needed.

If you’re walking the henro trail and looking for a place to actually rest, body and soul this is it. Surf. Sip....

Ichi the Hostel has been by far the most relaxing and settling stay I have had in the 22 days I have spent in Japan so far. Beautifully Simple and inviting the moment you set foot in the door and from the moment you meet Hiroumi you know you have made the right choice in accommodation. Located right next to the clear waters of the Kitakouchidani river and about a 5min walk to the Yakuo-Ji shrine for those who a interested. Ichi the Hostel has everything you need for an enjoyable and relaxing getaway from the fast paced big cities of Japan. 10min walk from Hiwasa station or if you have a car Hiroumi will direct you to a carpark about a minute walk away. Every amenity you need, comfortable sleep and don't forget to get some local knowledge from Hiro himself. There is so much more I could say about Ichi the Hostel...but words don't do it justice! Hiro build this place with love from the first nail to the last drop of paint and you can feel it.

Thank you for having us...

A cozy hostel in a beautifully renovated house, you can tell how much care was put into its creation by the careful attention to detail everywhere.

The beds were super comfortable, they have the same great comforters that seem to be ubiquitous to Japan where it feels like you’re sleeping on a cloud. Not good if you actually want to get anything done with your day because the beds won’t let you leave...

Best part of staying here was the community of Hiwasa itself, many of whom seem to use the hostel as a gathering spot. On any given night there might be a bunch of locals hanging out, a great way to meet people living in the area.

It was a great stay, thank...