Kanazawa’s First Guesthouse
A Small Townhouse Along the Kuratsuki Canal
More Than a Stay — A Place Where Travelers Connect and Feel Everyday Japan
Located just 10 minutes on foot from Kanazawa Station, Guesthouse Pongyi is a cozy, homely place where travelers from all over the world meet, talk, and share warm connections.
More than just a place to stay — a small guesthouse where travelers connect and experience everyday life in Japan.
The word “Pongyi” means “monk” in Burmese.
Inspired by founder Masaki’s monk experience in Myanmar,
Pongyi opened in 2009 as the first guesthouse in Kanazawa.
A 150-Year-Old Townhouse — A Small Japanese Home Where Travelers Connect
There are only three rooms — a female dormitory, a mixed dormitory, and a private tatami room facing the canal.
With space for up to 10 guests, it feels just like living in a small Japanese home.
As this is an old wooden house, the walls are thin and sounds carry easily.
Dormitory entrances have curtains instead of doors.
There are no hotel-style facilities, but travelers naturally gather around the low table to share stories and feel the warmth of everyday Japan.
Even if it’s your first guesthouse stay or a solo trip, you’ll feel safe and welcomed.
Niina, the hostess, and Masaki, the founder, greet you with heartfelt hospitality. Staff stay in the guesthouse at night.
Kanazawa’s First Guesthouse
A Small Townhouse Along the Kuratsuki Canal
More Than a Stay — A Place Where Travelers Connect and Feel Everyday Japan
Located just 10 minutes on foot from Kanazawa Station, Guesthouse Pongyi is a cozy, homely place where travelers from all over the world meet, talk, and share warm connections.
More than just a place to stay — a small guesthouse where travelers connect and experience everyday life in Japan.
The word “Pongyi” means “monk” in Burmese.
Read more
The word “Pongyi” means “monk” in Burmese.
Inspired by founder Masaki’s monk experience in Myanmar,
Pongyi opened in 2009 as the first guesthouse in Kanazawa.
A 150-Year-Old Townhouse — A Small Japanese Home Where Travelers Connect
There are only three rooms — a female dormitory, a mixed dormitory, and a private tatami room facing the canal.
With space for up to 10 guests, it feels just like living in a small Japanese home.
As this is an old wooden house, the walls are thin and sounds carry easily.
Dormitory entrances have curtains instead of doors.
There are no hotel-style facilities, but travelers naturally gather around the low table to share stories and feel the warmth of everyday Japan.
Even if it’s your first guesthouse stay or a solo trip, you’ll feel safe and welcomed.
Niina, the hostess, and Masaki, the founder, greet you with heartfelt hospitality.
Nostalgic old Japanese house
Though it may not be modern or stylish, this 150-year-old townhouse has the gentle warmth of wood and the kindness of people — a place that feels somehow nostalgic.
From the lounge window, you can watch the quiet flow of the Kuratsuki Canal and feel the calm rhythm of everyday life in Kanazawa.
At Pongyi, our staff naturally help guests get to know one another.
No matter their age, nationality, or occupation — here, everyone is a traveler.
We hope that the connections born through these encounters and conversations become one of the true treasures of your journey.
A clean and comfortable stay for solo female travelers
Staff stay in the guesthouse at night. Even if it’s your first time staying at a guesthouse, you can feel at ease here.
Our women-only dormitory has its own washbasin and shower, with attention to privacy and cleanliness.
Just a 10-minute walk from Kanazawa Station — convenient for visiting all major sightseeing spots.
A small old Japanese-style guesthouse with only 3 rooms.
1. Dormitories (Shared Rooms) × 2 — Former Kimono Storehouse
Two dormitory rooms were renovated from a 150-year-old storehouse that once belonged to a kimono shop, where you can enjoy the unique experience of “sleeping in a kura (traditional storehouse)”.
・Women-only Dormitory (2nd floor): Quiet and safe, with a dedicated shower and toilet for women.
・Mixed Dormitory (1st floor): A warm and friendly space where travelers naturally meet and connect.
2. Japanese-style Room (Private) × 1 — Along the Kuratsuki Canal
The other room is a private Japanese-style tatami room facing the Kuratsuki Canal. Enjoy the gentle light filtering through the shoji screens and the calming scent of tatami, and feel the peaceful everyday life of Kanazawa.
3. Amenities and Shared Facilities
Sheets and pillow covers are included in the room rate. Towels and yukata (light robes) are available for rent.
Shared showers are equipped with shampoo and conditioner, and there are women-only showers and toilets as well.
*Pongyi is a small guesthouse that values connection and communication among travelers.
It may not be suitable for those expecting hotel-style facilities.
We carefully maintain the building so that guests can relax in comfort
while preserving the charm of the old townhouse.
From the lounge and the Japanese-style room,
you can feel the gentle flow of the Kuratsuki Canal and enjoy a quiet moment.
Although located in the center of the city,
Pongyi offers a nostalgic and peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
We wish to be a place where you find the treasures of your journey.
Encounters with people on your journey
Pongyi is a small guesthouse where travelers from around the world can feel the warmth of people.
Simple moments — sharing words and smiles with new friends — may become the treasures of your journey.
Resonating with Masaki’s spirit born from his monk experience in Myanmar,
Nina now runs Pongyi, keeping it clean and cozy so everyone can relax and feel at home.
Living fully can lead not only to your own joy but also to someone else’s.
Part of each stay is donated to support self-reliance in Asia.
Your stay brings happiness to others.
We hope your time at Pongyi will gently stay in your heart.
Make Yourself Your True Work
— The Origin of Pongyi
What I Learned from My Monk Experience in Myanmar
Live wholeheartedly and walk a life that moves your own heart.
To live so that, at the end of your journey, you can truly say,
“I’m glad to be myself.”
“A place that touches the heart” is a guesthouse where encounters between people are cherished,
and warmth is felt through conversations and connections among guests.
At Pongyi, we treasure such moments above all else.
This spirit is deeply connected to our philosophy, “Make yourself your true work.”
“Make Yourself Your True Work” ― The Story of Pongyi
“Pongyi” means “monk” in Burmese.
The name came from Masaki, the founder, who left his banking career and spent time as a monk in Myanmar.
Not money or titles, but living true to yourself ― that is life’s real work.
Wishing to create “a guesthouse where people connect with their hearts,”
Pongyi opened in 2009 as the first guesthouse in Kanazawa.
Guided by this philosophy, Niina now continues Pongyi as the host,
offering a place that gently stays close to each traveler’s heart.
A Stay That Leads to Someone’s Happiness ― About Our Donations
At Pongyi, at least 100 yen from each night’s stay is donated to NPOs
supporting self-reliance among people in poverty across Asia, including Myanmar.
Staying at Pongyi helps create a better future for someone else.
We will continue to cherish this gentle circle of kindness.
“A place that touches the heart” is a guesthouse where encounters between people are cherished,
and warmth is felt through conversations and connections among guests.
At Pongyi, we treasure such moments above all else.
Read more
At Pongyi, we treasure such moments above all else.
This spirit is deeply connected to our philosophy, “Make yourself your true work.”
“Make Yourself Your True Work” ― The Story of Pongyi
“Pongyi” means “monk” in Burmese.
The name came from Masaki, the founder, who left his banking career and spent time as a monk in Myanmar.
Not money or titles, but living true to yourself ― that is life’s real work.
Wishing to create “a guesthouse where people connect with their hearts,”
Pongyi opened in 2009 as the first guesthouse in Kanazawa.
Guided by this philosophy, Niina now continues Pongyi as the host,
offering a place that gently stays close to each traveler’s heart.
A Stay That Leads to Someone’s Happiness ― About Our Donations
At Pongyi, at least 100 yen from each night’s stay is donated to NPOs
supporting self-reliance among people in poverty across Asia, including Myanmar.
Staying at Pongyi helps create a better future for someone else.
We will continue to cherish this gentle circle of kindness.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
incroyable expérience au guest house pongyi. tres petit, familier, tranquille et calme. c’est comme une petite maison où on vit avec des gens que l’on ne connaît pas, mais qu’on apprend à connaître. Nina organise des activités presque chaque soir (origami, écrire nos noms en kanji japonais), ce que j’ai adoré. je vais me rappeler de son hospitalité, son écoute, sa curiosité, son calme naturel et sa capacité à rassembler les gens.
le guest house est aussi très sécuritaire et propre.
merci🙏🏼
Posted on Google
Ilyas Aziza
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
nina and masaki really go out of their way to make sure you have a good stay, and always have a smile on their faces. I'll have fond memories of the evening activities and discussions I had with them. I really thank you from the bottom of my heart. If I ever come back to Kanazawa, I promise I'll come back again!
Posted on Google
chris jurkiewicz
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
One of my favorite stays in Japan! The home has so much history and has so much character. Everything is clean, beds are comfy, location is great. The real highlight is the host, Nina, who is so kind and helpful and hosts nightly activities to learn about something Japanese. When I was there, we learned some of the Japanese alphabet and how to write our names in hiragana and kanji
Posted on Google
Claes Gröndahl
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very nice guesthouse with a lovely host Nina
Posted on Google
César Shimura
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great unique experience! I totally recommend staying in the Guest House Pongyi!
Posted on Google
Tyler E
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The reviews are legit. After spending 5 weeks traveling all across Japan, this was my most memorable stay by far. Nina is the absolute sweetest person in the world and the best host ever. I genuinely can't believe how much time and effort she puts into making your stay an incredible and personal experience. Both nights I was here she also held free group activities at 8pm such as origami and calligraphy with snacks and tea, as well as answering all of our questions about Japanese history and culture. Just exceptional all around. If I'm ever back in Kanazawa, I'd book here again in a heartbeat, and you should too!
Posted on Google
Nicholas Dyer
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I would give them 6 stars if I could. Nina was so welcoming and accommodating. We felt at home at Pongyi House, learned so much about Japanese culture and the activities were fun. I’d highly recommend staying here if you’re in Kanazawa. Thank you Nina for making our stay a special one we’ll never forget! We hope to visit again in the future :)
Posted on Google
Josiah Kenyon
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Pongyi means to make yourself your true work, and you can feel that here in this space. Truly a place to call home for travelers. Its nice to feel so welcome and invited, to learn about Japanaese culture and interact and bond. Pretty centrally located - about a 20 minute walk to the night life area, 15 to the center, 15 to the gardens .. very nice. We learned how to make origami last night, today we will learn to make our names in Japanese! They have a small laundry machine, small but sufficient kitchen, a lounging area.. beds are comfy, with little lights, etc. Women's only room is available, private room available.. its tiny but it's got it all! 711 next door as well. Really highly reccomend this stop..
Q&A
What should I bring when I stay at Pongyi ?
We will answer your questions and requests.
QWhat amenities and equipments do you have ?
Free
Shampoo, conditioner, body soap
Hair dryer
Wi-Fi
Rental (not included in the accommodation fee)
Towel (bath towel 100 yen / face towel 50 yen)
Yukata (pajamas) 200 yen
Washing machine (100 yen 1 time / soap 50 yen)
＊There is no clothes dryer. There is a coin -operated laundrette in about 5 minutes away on foot.
QDo you serve meals ?
Breakfast (hot sandwiches) is served for an extra charge (600 yen).
Dinner is not provided.
There are many restaurants nearby, including near Kanazawa Station, so please feel free to inquire at the front desk.
QDo you have any parking lots?
No, we don’t have our own parking lots. We are happy to show you the coin parkings near our guesthouse when you check in（the coin parkings near our guesthouse）
You cannot park a motorcycle.
If you are coming by motorcycle please use the motorcycle park near Kanazawa station.
自転車でお越しの方は、一台であれば当館の玄関前の橋の上をご利用いただけます。 （屋根はありません）
QDo you have a curfew?
No, we don’t have curfew. The main entrance is closed at 22:00, however, you can use the backdoor from 22:00 - 8:00 next day. (We will tell you the password of the backdoor when you check in.)
* Please quietly go in and go out at night so as not to disturb other sleeping guests.
QDo you have the lights-out time ?
Yes. ｗe turn off the lights of the common rooms at 11:00pm. Please don't talk on the cellphone after 11:00pm in the house and in the neighborhood. Since our wooden building is old, the house echoes much with sounds and our house is locatede near residential area. Please keep quiet after 10:00pm.
QCan I stay with children?
Yes, but please check the age below.
Dormitories (shared room): 12 years old (first grade in junior high school) or older can stay.
Japanese Style Room (private): 6 years old (first grade in elementary school) or older can stay.
QAre the rooms equipped with an air conditioner ?
Female dormitory (shared)
There is an air conditioner.
Mixed dormitory (shared)
This room is not equipped with an air conditioner, but it is heated and cooled by an air conditioner on the 2nd floor of same kura (storehouse) and another air conditioner right in front of the entrance of the room. (Each bed is equipped with a small electric fan in summer.)
Japanese style room (private)
There is an air conditioner.
QDo you have a bathtub in the shower room ?
No, there is no bathtub. We have only shared shower rooms. There is a shower room for only women near the female dormitory. For the guests staying at the mixed dormitory and the Japanese style room, there is one more shared shower room on the 1st floor. (Ladies can use the female only shower room as well.)
QIs there staff in the house?
Yes. Staff stay in the house and are present at night.
Please note that assistance at night is limited to emergencies only.
Check-in / Check-out times and cancellation policy are here.
Guesthouses are simpler than hotels and offer shared spaces where travelers stay together.
They are usually for sleeping only and mostly self-service.
Amenities are basic, but guests can enjoy meeting and connecting with others.
Recently, some guesthouses provide private rentals or self check-in systems.
There’s no strict difference between “guesthouse” and “hostel,”
but hostels are usually larger and more functional, while guesthouses are smaller and homier.
Be considerate in shared spaces
In guesthouses, guests share rooms, lounges, and wash areas.
So it’s important to be considerate and keep quiet.
Speak softly, stay clean, and make sure everyone feels comfortable.
Also, because you share the space with other guests, the environment may not always be exactly as you want. You need to understand and accept this as part of staying at a guesthouse.
Enjoy meeting people on your journey
In common areas, people of different countries and ages often start conversations.
A simple encounter can become a warm memory of your trip.
What hotels can’t offer — the human connection and little discoveries — that’s the charm of a guesthouse.
What is a “guesthouse”?
A casual and friendly way to travel
Guesthouses are simpler than hotels and offer shared spaces where travelers stay together.
They are usually for sleeping only and mostly self-service.
Amenities are basic, but guests can enjoy meeting and connecting with others.
Recently, some guesthouses provide private rentals or self check-in systems.
Read more
Recently, some guesthouses provide private rentals or self check-in systems.
There’s no strict difference between “guesthouse” and “hostel,”
but hostels are usually larger and more functional, while guesthouses are smaller and homier.
Be considerate in shared spaces
In guesthouses, guests share rooms, lounges, and wash areas.
So it’s important to be considerate and keep quiet.
Speak softly, stay clean, and make sure everyone feels comfortable.
Enjoy meeting people on your journey
In common areas, people of different countries and ages often start conversations.
A simple encounter can become a warm memory of your trip.
What hotels can’t offer — the human connection and little discoveries — that’s the charm of a guesthouse.
Kanazawa is not that big city. Main sightseeing spots (Kenrokuen garden, 21st century museum of contemporary art. Kanazawa, Higashi Chaya district, Nagamachi Samurai district and Omicho market) are in 30 minutes distance on foot from each other.
Pongyi is in a great location to visit all those places.
