Loof Hyounoie

We thoroughly enjoyed the countryside.

There is a swallow’s nest above the entrance, and when you step inside, a wide earthen-floored space opens up in front of you. Although it’s a traditional Japanese house, it has been renovated in a modern style, with an up-to-date kitchen, refrigerator, and other appliances lined up in the earthen-floored area. When you open the Room door from there, you enter an irori hearth and tatami Room. It’s very spacious—almost too large for just two people. Air conditioning is installed everywhere except on the second floor above the bath area, so it stays comfortable even in summer. The Room also has games and play equipment such as shogi pieces, ring toss, a frisbee, and badminton. There is also a garden large enough to play badminton in. At night we enjoyed fireworks and even a bonfire despite it being summer; when we looked up, we could see the starry sky and the Milky Way. There is no light pollution. Meals were not included on the first day; on the second day, staff carefully grilled vegetables and meat over the irori hearth for us. The meat slowly grilled over charcoal was incredibly delicious. The staff were very kind—they prepared our meal and explained the background of this traditional house—and we truly felt their hospitality. We were able to savor the happiness of simply spending time at ease. Next time I’d love to return from autumn into winter!