The place was very clean. Breakfast was described as being basic, but was actually quite substantial. Lots of well thought out signage in Japanese and good English. Entertainment was spot on. The room opposite the dining room suddenly opened with a female guest running out in panic. Her partner dressed only in underwear could be seen swatting using his trousers at an unknown insect in obvious panic. Hilarity ensued. Staff were deployed with swatter and horsefly was dispatched.

I loved my stay here. The manager, Kiyoko, was wonderful and so kind that I felt immediately at home. The garden was fantastic and the meals were simple, healthy and delicious

Great location and superb views

Beautiful garden Spacious room Welcoming staff

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I stayed at Irumoteso for six nights this past summer, and I cannot imagine staying in any other place on the island (unless, of course, you need to stay clear on the other side). The absolute highlight is the owner, Kiyoko. She knows the island like the back of her hand, and can help you organize whatever you want. Almost my entire time in Ishigaki (3 nights alone and 3 nights with a friend) were planned by her. We simply told her what we wanted to do, or what kind of day we wanted to have (for example: ‘we want to take it easy on this day’, or ‘it might rain tomorrow, can you give us a plan B if it does?’) and she would outline everything for us. Her English is quite good, so don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese. She’s very attentive and very easy to talk to. If you don’t have a car, she can help you plan your commute via the sparse Iriomote buses, and can even recommend places to eat. She can also arrange all your tours for you. Many of our tour runners knew her well and have even stayed in her guesthouse over the decades! It’s especially useful if you’ve been doing most of your research online. While the internet and reviews can give you a good idea of how to plan your day, there’s nothing like a local who can tell you the nitty-gritty details and intricacies, and give you an accurate idea of how long something will take. Plus, she has a near-encyclopedic knowledge of all the ferry and bus timetables. Kiyoko cooks all the meals; breakfasts are hearty and great for powering you in the morning, and the dinners (should you choose to purchase them) are all satisfying home cooking. Be sure to let her know if you have any food allergies or restrictions (I don’t eat fish, for example), and she will accommodate you. While the restaurants in the area are nice, I highly recommend taking the meal on long or busy days, so that you don’t have to worry about getting food or choosing a place to eat.

I loved everything and everyone

Room view, garden, host kindness

Nothing