I stayed at Yasuko's place specifically because it was very conveniently located near the university (ICU) where I had a conference and it was a much better value than a boring business hotel near Musahi-Sakai Station. Traveling solo, the space in her house seemed enormous--an eight and a half mat tatami room, relatively large kitchen/dining room (with a full-sized dining table that I found very useful to not only eat on but also to do work on), a very nice bath/shower/sink and separate toilet. Having long experience in Japan over the past 30+ years (including one-year and half-year stints renting apartments), I can say that Yasuko's place is a very good value if you're willing to be 35-45 minutes out from core Tokyo. The neighborhood around Higashi-Koganei and Shin-Kogane Stations I would describe as slightly upscale Tokyo suburb that displayed in its cleanliness and small public flourishes a sense of civic pride and careful planning. The distance from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo was welcomed at the end of the day. I would also note that you are quite close to Kichijoji (about 10 minute bu foot and train), which is a very wonderful area with its park (Inokashira Park) and great concentration of boutiques and eateries. I have long said that if I moved to Tokyo I would live in Kichijoji (it often ranks #1 in places to live in Tokyo). So, bottom line, if you are considering Yasuko's place at all, rest assured you can't go wring with it. I would consider staying here again even if I didn't need to be out in that area.