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.
Incredible guest house that's in a building that is over 100 years old - still maintaining its antiquity and charm. The owners Nina-san and Masaki-san are very warm and loving people. There are fun activities organized every evening if you're up for it. Overall a great stay, great time, and great conversations!
Posted on
Arne R
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a great time at Guest House Pongyi staying in a beautiful traditional japanese style room. But the highlight definitely was the nice and super helpful staff that taught us about japanese culture during two wonderfull evenings we spent together.
Posted on
Thomas Broadbent
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Super cozy and well run inn! Nina was really friendly and helpful and ran a really fun onigiri class!
Posted on
Caroline Grenfors
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It was all around a wonderful experience! Nina-San made me feel so welcome and hosted activities in the evening to help you be social with the other guests. Would absolutely stay here again!
Posted on
Sasidhar Thota
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Staying at this small guesthouse in Kanazawa was truly the highlight of my trip, feeling more like a home than a traditional stay, thanks to the incredible atmosphere and staff. Nina, the manager was exceptionally friendly and helpful from check-in, going above and beyond to offer local tips and making everyone feel immediately comfortable. Its location is absolutely ideal, being just a short 5-10 minute walk from Kanazawa station. Moreover, the excellent communal spaces made it wonderfully easy to meet and connect with fellow international travellers and sharing stories. I highly recommend this guesthouse if you are looking for a comfortable, social, and perfectly located base for your Kanazawa adventures.
Posted on
CW
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Although we only stayed for one night, it was sure enough to experience the hospitality of Nina-san at Pongyi. She have us precious info for exploring Kanazawa, and held onto our luggage until check-in. When we came back, she explained everything in the Guest House (which by the way is very complete! it felt like home), and introduced us to the other guests. Then, she invited us to have tea and do Peace origami, which we gladly enjoyed. We stayed until late sipping tea and talking with all the guests.
Whenever we want to come back to Kanazawa, we will be sure to stay some days at Pongyi. It is good for your soul.
Posted on
Emma M.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
J'ai tout aimé dans cette petite guesthouse mais surtout l'accueil de Nina la propriétaire. Elle a été de très bon conseil, extrêmement disponible et a partagé avec nous l'histoire de la ville, de la maison et a organisé une soirée origami le soir de notre arrivée. Cette petite auberge est comme une petite famille, on s'y sent tout de suite accueillis et on peut facilement nouer des liens avec les autres voyageurs. C'est un de mes hébergements préférés lors de mon séjour au Japon. L'emplacement proche de la gare et du centre ville est idéal. Je recommande à 200%.
Posted on
Olympe
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing place, the staff is so sweet. They organised an evening of Japanese Calligraphy where they taught us how to write our names in Kanji. They gave tips on where to go and when.
The location is great, walking distance from the city center and the station.
Everything is spotless and the facilities are stocked.
The house is a traditional japanese building that use to be kimono shop.
Posted on
ShinGreen
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Guest house rất thoải mái, mình đã có thời gian vui vẻ khi cùng các bạn từ nhiều nơi trên thế giới chia sẻ quán ăn ngon và gấp hạc giấy với nhau. Chủ nhà Nina cũng rất thân thiện, giới thiệu cho mình nhiều sự kiện và địa điểm thú vị ở Kanazawa, thật sự rất hữu ích.
Chỉ có điều phòng hơi nhỏ nên buổi sáng mọi người thức dậy thì hơi ồn một chút.
Nhưng nhìn chung đây vẫn là một nơi ở rất tuyệt, và mình rất vui vì đã chọn chỗ này.
とても居心地の良いゲストハウスで、宿泊者同士で美味しいお店の情報を共有したり、一緒に折り鶴を作ったりして楽しく過ごせました。オーナーのニナさんもとても親切で、金沢のイベントやおすすめスポットを紹介してくれて本当に助かりました。
ただ、部屋は少し小さいため、朝みんなが起きると音が気になることがありました。
それでも全体的にとても良い滞在で、この場所を選んで本当に良かったです。
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.
