My stay at Mariko's apartment was great! The apartment is nice and clean and a very short walk from Hirai station on the JR Chuo-Sobu Line, so it's a very convenient home base for your travels in Tokyo. I loved the tatami floor room, it was a very good experience for my first few nights in Japan!
Mariko was very gracious and kindly waited for me at the apartment, even though my flight to Narita Airport was delayed. She doesn't stay in the apartment, but she lives nearby and always keeps the line of communication open in case you have any problems or have any questions about things to do nearby, etc. I would definitely recommend staying here, and I hope I get the chance to stay at Mariko's place another time!