Some content was translated automatically. Show original
United States
This experience is something I will always cherish. from the moment I arrived, I felt genuinely welcomed and learned so much throughout my stay. Ryusei is a very energetic and silly boy, we played countless games, made a lot of crafts and just had alot of fun together.He always tried his best to communicate with me and loved learning new English words. he’s also a pretty good sensei, I ended up learning plenty of Japanese words from him too! My only regret is that I couldn’t stay longer. Thank you for sharing your world with me and allowing me to do the same!!! また来ます！
4 months ago
France
I had a wonderful experience with the family the host! They welcomed me warmly and made me feel at home from the start. I had my own private room, everything was well organized, and expectations were clear. They were also very kind, flexible and supportive. This experience allowed me to discover the host culture in a way I never would as a tourist, while sharing daily like and meaningful conversations. I also shared my language, which I really enjoyed. Ryusei is a joyful and adorable child, easy to take care and bound with. I only wish I could have stayed longer and highly recommend!
6 months ago
United States
I absolutely loved my time with the Maruo Family-it was such a unique experience staying in a home that's over 300 years old. From the moment I arrived, everyone was incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home. Ryusei quickly, warmed up to me and love sitting in my lap, he’s such a cute, smiley boy with lots of energy. My room was perfectly cozy and private, giving me a great space to relax. Communication was easy and well appreciated, which made scheduling flexible and allowed days to just naturally. I truly felt like I had experienced a real sense of Japanese daily life living.
7 months ago
United States
Serena-San & Shinzo-san are the most lovely, giving hosts one could ask for. I immediately felt supported and continued to feel more and more so throughout my stay. I am so honored to have been able to learn about kimono and tea ceremony, I feel it is probably near impossible to get inside this part of the host culture so closely as a foreigner with limited the host skills, so it's a once in a lifetime experience. Staying in the beautiful Samurai house was incredible and you get to do so in exchange for playing with their son friendly son, Ryusei, all around Kyoto? 1000% recommend
almost 3 years ago
Portugal
Kyoto Samurai House was a great experience! The family was very welcoming and made sure I had everything I needed. The baby boy is adorable, we had a lot of fun together, already missing him! You definitely have to be flexible with the schedule, but the family makes their best to give you the days off you want! In general it was very interesting to live in the samurai house and be able to experience and learn more about the host culture. Serena and Shinzo are truly great people, and was a pleasure to share time with them! See you again in December! And maybe karaoke sometime 😄
almost 3 years ago
United Kingdom
The Maruo family were welcoming and really helpful during my time in Japan. The hours I worked in the end were very reasonable. They let me use their car and explore areas around Fukuchyama & Kyoto. Their the host is in a great location. The family were also extremely nice and welcoming and allowed me to do what I wanted/ gave me choice of what I wanted to do whilst I was with them. Would highly recommend them.
about 3 years ago
Italy
I had a lovely time there ! The house is extremely beautiful and the host , it was such a great opportunity to experience living like a the host person ; plus it was so close to Kyoto central station so it was really easy moving around the city . I enjoyed this experience also because of the lovely atmosphere created by my kind and funny hosts who were also interested in Italian language so I was really happy to see my language really appreciated:)
about 3 years ago
United States
I had a great experience volunteering for the Samurai House! I spent my time babysitting their adorable 2-year-old, cleaning the house/garden, and helping to teach an origami class. It is truly a special experience getting to live in a 300 year old the host home, and there is a communal kitchen for the volunteers to use. I worked 25 hours a week and was able to spend my free time exploring the rest of Kyoto. I was even able to plan my days off so I could take day trips to Nara and Osaka. The hosts are great about communication and planning. Be prepared to be flexible with your schedule!
over 3 years ago
United States
Thank you Shinzo-san and Serena-san for this wonderful experience! My time at the host and Fukuchiyama were absolutely incredible. the host is a beautiful piece of architecture in a great location in Kyoto. I was able to explore the city and participate in tea ceremonies and kimono wearing. At the house in Fukuchiyama, I got to explore the countryside and learn about the local culture. It was a real slice of life and a lot of fun. The hosts are very kind and communicated everything very well. The work was simple and enjoyable with fair hours. I hope to visit again some day!
over 3 years ago
Owen helped us a lot with cleaning, DIY and babysitting, he is very friendly and hardworking. His work is above and beyond expectations. Thank you very much!
United States
Staying with Serena San and Maruo San in Japan was an unforgettable experience. Serena San went above and beyond to provide exceptional hospitality, exemplifying the true definition of a great hostess. I am grateful for the incredible omotenashi she provided, which made me feel welcomed and at home throughout my stay. Babysitting their 2-year-old son Ryusei was a delightful experience, and I had so much fun playing with him and watching him learn new things. Overall, my stay in Kyoto allowed me to grow and learn in ways that I never imagined, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity.
over 3 years ago
