My husband, Jun, and I remember Japan from about 25 years ago and we have been looking forward to this visit back to Tokyo. Not only was this trip to Japan a first for our two college-aged children, Kato & Kyra, this was the first time that our family made use of the Air BnB service.

After the initial trepidation on which place to choose, I am glad that we had the privilege of ending up in Tony Hirano’s place: a definite home away from home.

Tony-san and his wife Kazue were very welcoming. An added bonus was meeting his daughter-in-law, who happens to be from our own country, too. Her daughters were a delight to meet. Overall, our choice to veer away from usual hotel accommodations was one of the best decisions that made our Tokyo trip extremely worthwhile. There was a lot of walking to do, places to visit, food to taste…. time went by quickly. It would have been a nice option to maybe bike to and from the apartment, too. Watching the local people go about their daily routine on bikes was an added treat.

On behalf of my children and myself, my husband sums up our entire experience with Tony Hirano and family very aptly with this:

If you are looking for a semblance of old Tokyo - look no further. The description of the flat of Tony-san is spot on. His place was clean and had all the basic amenities. There is a grocery approximately one to two minutes walk just around the corner. The bus stops are around three to five minutes’ walk away in one direction. The Asakusa train station is in the other direction, around a 15 -20 minute leisurely stroll from Tony-san’s place. The walk will become something to appreciate as you are slowly surrounded by all the best restaurants to suit your budget, small and large stores to explore, and find yourself just a stone's throw away from the Sensõ-ji Temple with side streets resembling days gone by.

But, the main reason why I would not hesitate to recommend this BnB is our hosts, the Hirano family! Tony-san and his wife Kazue, his daughter-in-law Kat, his two grandchildren Sawako and Yoko were the perfect hosts! From picking us up at the train station, advise on the best mode & route to take to explore Tokyo, lunch and dinner with his family, and so on and so forth...I guarantee your stay will be more than enjoyable.

Kampai! Looking forward to visit again...
Thanks for the wonderful hospitality and the wonderful memories, Tony-san and family!
= From Jun, Susan, Kato & Kyra