Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re planning a winter ski holiday in Myoko, a summer escape to Hakuba, or simply looking for the best home for your group trip, you’ll find answers to our most common questions below.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please get in touch via our Contact page and our team will be happy to help.
Reservations
How do I book?
The best way is to book directly through our website.
Booking direct gives you the best available rate, no third-party service fees, direct communication with our team, and access to exclusive offers available only on our website.
Why should I book directly instead of Airbnb?
When you book directly with Satoyama Stays, you avoid third-party booking fees while receiving exactly the same accommodation, with additional benefits.
Benefits include:
- Best available rates
- No hidden platform fees
- Direct support from our local team
- Exclusive offers
- Flexible communication before your stay
What payment methods do you accept?
We securely accept major credit and debit cards through our online booking system, managed by payment provider Stripe.
What is your cancellation policy?
A 50% deposit is required when booking.
The remaining balance is automatically charged 30 days before arrival.
Cancellation terms depend on how far in advance you cancel. Full details can be found on our Payments and Cancellation Policy page.
→ Payment and Cancellation Policy
Choosing a Property
Which house is best for large groups?
Both located in Myoko, Kendama House and Taketombo House accommodate up to 14 guests, making them ideal for:
- multiple families
- ski groups
- reunions
- groups of friends travelling together
If you’re looking for a smaller home for your group, Koma House accommodates up to seven guests in Hakuba.
What’s the difference between Kendama House and Taketombo House?
While they are both located in Myoko and accomodate the same number of guests, Kendama House features:
- Private natural onsen (hot spring)
- Entertainment room with Xbox, board games and Smart TV
- Separate living room with pellet fireplace
- Heated ski-gear room & large basement storage space for luggage and snowsports equipment
- Akakura Onsen location – lively high street with restaurants and bars
- Parking in basement for 1 car, extra paid parking 5 minutes on foot
Taketombo House offers:
- Ski-in access due to close proximity to Suginohara Resort
- Spacious garden perfect for snow games with all the family
- Living room with smart TV and games
- Quiet Suginosawa location
- On-site parking for up to 4 cars
Winter Travel
Do I need a car in Myoko?
For most visitors, yes.
The Myoko region is spread across several villages and ski resorts, making a vehicle the easiest way to explore restaurants, supermarkets, onsen, and different ski resorts.
During winter we strongly recommend a 4WD or AWD vehicle fitted with winter tyres.
Read our full guide:
→ Driving in Myoko During Winter
Can I visit without a car?
Yes, but planning ahead is important.
Public buses operate between some villages and ski resorts, although services are limited outside peak times.
Taxis are also available but can be difficult to secure during busy weekends and heavy snowfall.
Since there are no supermarkets within walking distance of either of our Myoko homes, we require guests who wish to cook any of their meals at home to rent a car during their stay.
Is parking available?
Yes.
Every Satoyama Stays property includes private parking.
Parking availability varies by property, so please check each listing for details.
Do your houses have storage for ski equipment?
Yes.
Each property includes secure space for skis, snowboards and other winter equipment.
Kendama and Taketombo House also feature a separate heated drying space for ski jackets, gloves and boots.
Summer
Is Myoko worth visiting in summer?
Absolutely.
Summer offers:
- mountain hiking
- waterfalls
- cycling
- lakes
- local festivals
- cooler temperatures than major cities
It’s one of Japan’s best destinations for travellers seeking nature and a slower pace.
Is Hakuba only for skiing?
No.
Hakuba has become one of Japan’s premier alpine destinations year-round.
Popular summer activities include:
- hiking
- mountain biking
- rafting
- cafés
- hot springs
- panoramic gondolas
The Houses
Do all properties have kitchens?
Yes.
Each home includes a fully equipped kitchen with cookware, utensils and dining space suitable for large groups.
Are towels and linens provided?
Yes.
Fresh towels, professionally prepared beds and essential toiletries are included with every stay.
Do the houses have Wi-Fi?
Yes.
High-speed Wi-Fi is available in every property.
Are pets allowed?
No.
Unfortunately we cannot accommodate pets at this time.
Do you have private onsen?
Kendama House includes its own private natural onsen, available exclusively for guests staying at the property.
Before You Arrive
What time is check-in?
Check-in begins from 2:00 PM. Our team will be in touch to request guests estimated arrival time, so that they can give a welcome tour.
What time is check-out?
Check-out is by 10:00 AM.
Can I send luggage before I arrive?
Yes.
We can receive luggage before your stay.
Please contact us in advance so we can make arrangements.
Can I ship my skis/snowboard ahead of my arrival?
Yes.
Many guests send skis and snowboards directly to the house using Japan’s luggage delivery services, such as Ta-q-bin.
Please notify us before shipping so that we are able to accept the delivery on time.
Local Area
Which airport should I fly into?
Most international visitors arrive via Tokyo Haneda before travelling to Myoko or Hakuba by Shinkansen. You can then rent a car from Hakuba or Myoko.
Read our complete access guides:
- Getting to Myoko
- Getting to Hakuba
Are restaurants within walking distance?
This depends on the property.
Kendama House is located within Akakura Onsen where many restaurants, bars, and a basic convenience store are nearby, less than 5 minutes walking distance.
Koma House is also within walking distance of cafés, shops, and restaurants, due to its central location near Hakuba Train Station.
Taketombo House however is in a quieter village where driving is recommended. Although there are some restaurants within walking distance, these are limited.
Where can I buy groceries?
Several supermarkets are located within a short drive of all properties.
Convenience stores are also available nearby when travelling by car.
About Satoyama Stays
What is Satoyama?
Satoyama (里山) refers to the landscape where villages meet forests and mountains, representing a traditional way of living in harmony with nature.
Our homes celebrate this philosophy by restoring historic Japanese houses for modern stays while preserving their original character.
Why stay with Satoyama Stays?
Satoyama Stays offers restored private homes in Myoko and Hakuba that combine traditional Japanese architecture with modern comfort.
Whether you’re visiting for powder snow, alpine adventures, or a countryside retreat, our homes provide spacious accommodation, local knowledge, and direct support from our small team.