The host was exceptionally gracious and helpful. He even researched trips for us, rented movies for our kids, and brought us homemade Japanese mochi! The neighborhood was very quiet and there was everything we needed across the street or on our street: restaurants, a bus stop, a bakery, grocery stores, a playground, a dried tea store, etc...even a police station! The neighborhood and the apartment are definitely older but well kept. Keep in mind that the host shares the apartment next to you, but he was so accommodating that we were actually grateful. It seemed an authentic Japenese studio from the bath to the Tatami room that comfortably slept all 6 of us (including 4 young children).