Page 57 - WDT Winter 2018 japan

farmhouses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries or two-and-a-half bath apartment, eager to remove our shoes
wander through the narrow streets of Sanmachi Suji, where and explore what would be our home for the next four days.
throngs of visitors shuffle through authentic Edo-era (1603- We admired the beautiful carved wood details throughout the
1867) buildings. Our authentic Japanese home, K’s Villa Hida- apartment. The modern kitchen and bathrooms. Tatami mat
an, is located just a few blocks from Sanmachi Suji and the floors, rice paper walls, and sliding doors defined rooms on the
train station. lower flower and upstairs where each of four bedrooms was
After getting the keys from the staff at the next door youth home to twin-sized futons for two. In the center was a tiny
hostel, we entered the foyer of the two-story, four-bedroom, Japanese garden complete with rock lanterns and a grace-

ful Japanese maple. But it also had a beautiful handmade especially when wearing socks. If you have mobility issues,
wooden table and comfy couches for our spoiled Western this may not be for you.
backsides. Tip: The youth hostel next door is a great place to get
We stayed in Takayama with another couple, which information on the best watering holes and eateries in the
meant this beautiful apartment cost no more than a standard area. They have a detailed handout with all of their recom-
hotel room. The only downside was the steep stairs to the mendations. Seeing that they cater to young folks with thin
wallets, their recommendations are not only on the mark but
bedrooms. The stairs were polished wood and very slippery,
very affordable.

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