About Yougendo
Harmonious with Nature
Yougendo is a traditional Japanese house of the type that is rapidly disappearing from Japan. Made entirely from natural materials, and constructed without the use of nails or metal, we offer the rare experience of staying in a living, breathing organic structure.
The Real Deal
Large private grounds, immense wooden beams, wattle and daub walls, rice straw flooring and paper sliding doors make our house the perfect place to capture a feel of the old Japan. Without the high rates or rules of a "ryokan".
Warm and Welcoming
We aim to make your stay as comfortable as possible providing where possible the services and standards of a good hotel yet keeping the feel and familiarity of an international travellers inn. With our one price policy you can take advantage of a wide range of facilities usually offered as "optional extras" at many other places in our price range.
The Heart of Kansai
Our fantastic location makes it possible to see the whole of the area with ease. See the temples of Kyoto, take in the ancient feel of Nara, shop, dine and club in Osaka, hike the hills of Mie or get cosmopolitan in Kobe the choice is yours. We can help you plan your trip both on off the beaten track. A stay at Yougendo especially gives you access to the countryside you’ve always associated with Japan. Let our knowledge of the area open up yet another side of this wonderful country.
About the Owners
Chris and SHU met in Brighton, England in 1997. Soon to be married one year later they have been bosom buddies, travelling partners and socialites for the last nine years. Their mutual appreciation for each others countries, and the world in general have helped them to spawn a wide network of friends from around the globe.
Due to the steady influx of friends coming to stay at their apartment in Japan each year and the sheer enjoyment they gain from helping to look after people, they decided to set up Yougendo. Whilst being young enough to embrace a modern outlook on life they also realize the importance of preservation, and the environment in which we live. Their ideology is reflected in their guest house.
Never happier in the company of people they hope to show you a slower side of Japan. Starting with a good nights sleep.
Our Staff
Our morning staff, Kayo, will greet you with a lovely smile! She is a high school student, budding RnB singer and loves to speak and sing English .
Atsuko is new to our team, she was born and raised in Nara so she knows the area very well. She is now preparing for married life in Canada!
Our third staff member
Yuica, is an undergraduate student studying English language and culture. She studied in Washington last year and is planning to go abroad on working holiday programme after she finishes university.
Jenny lives in the Kobe area of Kansai, she comes from Germany and can speak Japanese and English as well as her native German, she enjoys sports and especially in-line skating.
Ayano lived in Brooklyn NY for 13 years before coming back to Japan a few years ago. Her intersts are fashion, design, music, and all things funky. She'll be sure to welcome you at Yougendo.
The newest staff Mayumi was born and grew up near Oji. She spent a year in New Zealand on working holiday and worked very hard at a backpacekers hostel, loves meeting people travelling from all over the world!
George lives at and around Yougendo. Her job is to keep the mice away. She is really friendly, and a big hit with our guests. Say Hi to George!
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