If you are traveling alone, there is no better place than Miyuko sang's place. She lives with the cat Tao, and the room is exactly same with pictures. It was fulled of traditional art crafts and welcome snacks were also prepared. (Air was bit cold as other old apartments, but she prepared a hot pack for me so I slept well.)
She will pick up you from station to her apartment, and will provide you home-cooked breakfast every morning. She will clean your room everyday if you stay longer than one day.
She only speaks Japanese but that didn't make any problem. She is one of the nicest host I've ever meet, and she will show you great respect and kindness. If you want to feel the peaceful, traditional warmness of Japan, 100% recommended.