At This Coastal Japanese Airbnb, Guests Receive a Bed—and a Mystery to Unravel

The Dinogo Perspective

While most lodging options in Shingū and along the coastline are large, uninspiring hotels, [Kamikura-Hideaway] stands out. Nestled in a quiet alley, this charming two-story apartment features retro, grandma-chic decor. However, what truly sets this place apart is that it offers more than just a stay; the house and its furnishings serve as clues to a fictional mystery that guests are invited to solve.

Who Is It Ideal For?

Avid readers and hikers seeking a deep dive into Japanese folklore.

The residence...

Upon our arrival at the house, we were warmly welcomed by our host, who provided a typical tour of the premises. At that moment, I still hadn’t grasped what I had signed up for. However, I paid attention when she emphasized that we absolutely, absolutely needed to check out a particular book that “narrates the story of the house.”

Once she departed, we made ourselves comfortable in the space. The first floor features a cozy, modern living room and kitchen filled with warm wood accents. Vintage mugs adorn the shelves of a small yet fully equipped kitchen, complete with complimentary coffee and a pour-over setup. The living room boasts a comfortable futon and shelves brimming with intriguing trinkets, rocks, and bottles. The bedroom is arranged with two cozy futons placed on traditional Japanese tatami mats, which often carry a distinctive, earthy aroma that’s completely normal. Upstairs, it felt like a journey back in time: the study and reading room are filled with vintage furniture, books, papers, maps, letters, and various knickknacks that initially appeared to be mere decor.

...and its narrative

Once I sank into the worn leather armchair and began exploring the book, I realized I had stumbled upon an entire novel. Narrated by the grandson of the woman who once lived there, it not only chronicled the house but also the peculiar yet kind tenant she welcomed after her husband's passing.

As I delved deeper, I understood that these assorted knickknacks and trinkets were more than mere decorations; they served as clues in the unfolding narrative. They began to reveal their significance, aiding in the unraveling of a fantastical mystery surrounding one of the characters' disappearances. While I won’t give away the plot (you’ll need to stay the night to uncover the secrets of this enchanting house), I will say that the story was so captivating we abandoned our initial plans to explore the town and instead settled in to read and hunt for clues until we unraveled the mystery. What I cherished most was how it wove in elements of Japanese folklore, Shinto traditions, and local geography, making us feel intimately connected to the area as we read.

The setting

Spending a night or two in Shingū is truly worthwhile if you’re trekking the Kumano Kodo. This expansive port city feels more residential than touristy, with the main draw being the Kumano Hayatama Taisha, one of the primary Shinto shrines along the trail. It’s also the endpoint if you choose to take the boat from just south of Hongu Taisha to Shingū instead of completing the final segment of the hike (a favored option for hikers pressed for time).

However, the house itself is nestled in a charming, tranquil part of town, adjacent to a smaller shrine and bordering a majestic mountain. The surroundings provide a lovely transition from the serenity of nature and the trail back to urban Japan. While you could easily enjoy cooking at home (and I wouldn’t fault you for it), the nearby restaurant Kaihami Carne (reservations are advised) offers a fantastic opportunity to savor Itameshi cuisine, essentially a Japanese interpretation of Italian fare. We particularly enjoyed the sweet potato pizza.

The next significant shrine along the trail is Kumano-Nachi Taisha, which boasts Japan's tallest waterfall, the Nachi waterfall. It takes about an hour to reach by train and bus from Shingū, although there’s also a hiking option for part of the journey. If you stay for two nights at [Kamikura-Hideaway] (which I highly recommend), it’s conveniently close enough for a day trip. Whether you visit as a day trip or on your return to Osaka, be sure to enjoy a soba noodle lunch at Morimoto-ya, located near the Kii-Katsuura train station.

A perfect stay for book lovers

While it may not be the most luxurious Airbnb available, it stands out as one of the most imaginative. The hosts—a warm and friendly husband and wife team residing nearby—have clearly poured their hearts into the home and the story it conveys. If you’re passionate about books or appreciate a great narrative, don’t miss the opportunity to stay here.