We're ages 67 and 62, not too fussy, but not willing to put up with just anything. It was just a little funky here, but we loved this place, and our two hosts.

It was an easy walk from Nippori Station, not hard to find. Get off at Nippori if you're coming from Narita, then walk up "Fabric Street," about 8 traffic lights. Take a right between Lawson & 7/11. And there are other stations even closer, but this way is easiest when you first get there. The neighborhood is somewhat unremarkable, but neat, safe and quiet. There's a friendly liquor store 2 doors down (try it, instead of Lawson), a few minor shrines, 2 parks, a grocery, and a dog cafe.

There are two rooms, both tatami, both above the kendo studio (you should remember that kendo is not a quiet activity). We were the only guests, so we had the whole floor to ourselves, usually. We had the room with the western beds. We probably slept better as a result, and that room has a TV. There's a full kitchen you can use, and there's always a pot of hot water. The photos give an accurate idea.

There's a good library of Tokyo travel literature.

Before and after kendo, the baths and showers are shared. It's over quickly. I asked to attend kendo practice and was very, very glad that I did. I attended alone. I think two persons would be intrusive. There may have been fewer practices because it was Golden Week. After Monday's practice, there was a party and we were invited. You could almost say we were honored guests. It was one of those experiences that you just don't get in a hotel or even a hostel. There was food, drink conversation and friendship. All genuine. We are immensely thankful to have had this experience, and to our hosts and new friends.

The host was waiting for us when we arrived. His English is limited, but good enough to give us an orientation, and later a valuable tip on taking the bus instead of the train. He always asked how we would spend our day. One day he drove us in his car. His wife was a sweetheart and had some English, too. She made us substantial breakfast sandwiches every day, accompanied by fruit or a KitKat. We even met the family dog, and shared family photos on the smartphone.

We stayed a week and could not have been happier with our choice. Arigato, Hisao & Naomi.