This is our 5th time in Tokyo and we can honestly say that this accommodation has been the best we’ve ever had here in Japan! In terms of practicalities, the house is within walking distance of Shindaita station, restaurants, cafes, family mart convenience store, a dog cafe (all within 5 mins), the centre of Shimokitazawa (15 mins), and Hiyogi Park (20 mins). The house is situated in a quiet local neighborhood (with virtually no foreigners), and you don’t need a house key as you’re given a door code which is so convenient! Kanako kindly gave us a pocket Wifi to use which was so helpful for finding our way around. The bedroom is pleasant and small but has everything you need including a nice hot shower (built into the room), a hand basin with sweet smelling toiletries, comfy beds and heating. The toilet is conveniently located next to the bedroom. Kanako encourages you to use her living room and kitchen area and you can even wash and dry your clothes in 5 hours. But practicalities aside, staying with the wonderful Kanako and her lovely family has truly been a memorable experience for us both! From the initial contact months ago, communication with Kanako has been fast and easy. She is always happy to answer our questions and to make sure that we have a great time. She has gone out of her way to cater for my allergy to gluten (as I’m a Coeliac) cooking yummy gluten free breakfasts and inviting us to dinner with her family. We were taught how to make rice balls, sukiyaki and gyoza - all delicious and gluten free! We were also invited to dine with the family at a local restaurant and in return we invited Kanako and her partner Hirofumi to join us in going to the Kusama Yayoi museum which was great (you need to book the tickets online months in advance) and then we had lunch together. If you’re lucky enough, like we were, you may be treated to a magical piano performance by Kanako’s sweet 12 year old daughter Haru. Makoto, their 2 year old son is delightful! We stayed at Kanako’s for 2 weeks but only spent time with the family for one week as they went off on their planned holiday the second week. We enjoyed being part of their family so much that we really missed them when they weren’t there. So, if you want to be immersed in local Japanese culture and be part of a family, don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Book now, you won’t regret it!