In the heart of Shikoku, empty houses transform into "homes for travel."

We are located right in the center of Shikoku, tucked away in the mountains of the Shikoku Range, in the Yoshino district of Motoyama Town, Kochi Prefecture. Like many rural areas across Japan, the Reihoku region of Kochi Prefecture is facing a declining population, leaving behind more and more vacant homes.

Yet, this land holds wonders we can proudly call world-class: pristine crystal-clear rivers, breathtaking terraced rice fields, and Shiraga-yama mountain climbing with unique, mystical trees found nowhere else! There are so many incredible spots we want people to see and enjoy.

We had all these amazing sights to see... but nowhere for visitors to stay. While a few standard hotels and cottages existed, we felt that if there were a place where travelers could stay as if actually living here—truly experiencing the rural lifestyle—they could fall in love with this region even more.

That is why we decided to renovate a vacant house and open a private accommodation where guests can relax without a care in the world. That place is "Ikken-yado Sameura."

As a renovated empty home, Ikken-yado Sameura became the very first private rental accommodation to open in Yoshino, Motoyama Town. Today, many tourists visit in search of the pristine Asemi River, and the local vibe is livelier than ever, with three different operators now running accommodations in the area.

"Turning vacant houses into bases for enjoying this land." A new form of countryside living, sparked by a single inn, begins right here.

Harvest Small Joys: A Taste of the Season

Ikken-yado Sameura is run by the two of us—a duo of transplants who moved here from the Tokyo metropolitan area. Plucking shiso or myoga ginger from the garden, or snapping ripe tomatoes straight from the vine... we want more people to experience the everyday joy of "harvesting and eating what's in season," something that is hard to do in the city.

The inn features a small field and fruit trees. Though they are still small saplings now, the trees will grow with every visit, slowly transforming into a fruitful garden. We hope this place becomes a second home where you can return and say, "I'm back."

Start Your "Country Life" Hassle-Free

The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need for self-catering, including a gas stove, tableware, and cooking utensils. No need to pack heavy luggage. Simply bring in delicious Reihoku ingredients bought at the nearby local market, and enjoy a "live-like-a-local stay" in your own style.

Enjoy BBQs and Fireworks

We provide a BBQ grill and charcoal in the garage, free for all guests to use. Buy some premium Tosa Akaushi beef and fresh vegetables at the local market, and enjoy a BBQ while feeling the evening breeze. Gathering around the fire, grilling vegetables you picked yourself from the garden—this is the ultimate way to spend your time at the inn.

Since the garage is covered, you can enjoy your countryside dinner comfortably without worrying about the weather. On clear days, you are also more than welcome to enjoy your BBQ outside on the traditional engawa veranda.

A Crystal-Clear Playground Just Beyond the Garden

Just a two-minute walk from the inn flows the pristine Asemi River, deeply loved by the locals. This spot features a gentle, translucent current that is so calm it was once used as a swimming pool for the local elementary school. Even small children can play in the water safely. Chasing bugs in the yard, dipping your toes in the river—a perfect summer vacation day awaits you here.

Perfect for Multi-Generational Families and Friends: A Place Where Kids Take Center Stage

Ikken-yado Sameura can accommodate up to 8 guests, making it ideal for three-generation family trips or groups of close friends.

We especially love welcoming families with children! Watching them get lost in chasing butterflies and insects in the garden, or finding tiny fish in the river... nothing makes us happier than seeing kids immerse themselves in a "nature adventure" that is hard to find in the city.

Click here to visit the Ikken-yado Sameura page.