ASAGAYA IRIGUCHI GUESTHOUSE (New!)

“Doorway to Discovery”: Where Cultures and Communities Connect
[published July 2026]

A guesthouse only 10 minutes from Shinjuku, Asagaya Iriguchi, is a place where guests can build connections with locals through their stay. The guesthouse opened recently in June, 2026 and is located only 2 minutes from JR Asagaya Station and is in walking distance from the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line as well.

Being located only 10 minutes from Shinjuku, a popular tourist location, makes the guesthouse an even better choice for connecting with the city. Despite it being located so close to the central city of Tokyo, Asagaya is a town filled with undiscovered sites of Japan, making it favorable for those who want to explore not only popular tourist spots but the quiet and local sites in Japan.

The guesthouse is located in the former Usagiya, a beloved Japanese confectionery shop that was once one of Asagaya’s most popular local establishments. Renovated while preserving elements of its history, the building offers guests a unique opportunity to experience a piece of the neighborhood’s heritage. Historic photographs and original furnishings from the shop remain throughout the space, allowing visitors to appreciate the atmosphere and memories. The space that was originally used to sell the sweets is now used as a lounge and bar to encourage interaction between local residents and guests.

The guest house is composed of 30 beds spread across four dormitory-style rooms, all mixed gender. The single beds are 6,000 yen while semi-double beds are 7,000 yen, and although adults cannot share one bed, adults and children are welcome to share a bed with no additional fees. The guest house has shared restrooms (four on each floor) and showers (two on each floor). Amenities include: towels, soap, slippers, steam iron, hair iron, hair dryer, a “sento” bath set, and heat/air conditioning all provided at no additional charge.

Mr. Moriguchi, the owner of the guest house, maintains that they’d like guests to build connections with not only the staff, but also local people in the neighborhood. Guests are welcomed to join the community’s children cafeteria, held on the first floor of the building, run by the same company as the guesthouse. Additionally, guests can also eat a traditional Japanese breakfast made by local residents. Staff members are happy to share recommendations and introduce you to the local Japanese stores. Mr. Moriguchi explains that the name “Iriguchi,” which means “doorway” or “entrance” in Japanese, was chosen with the hope that the guesthouse would become a “doorway to discovery,” not only for the guests who visit, but also for the people in the community as well.

If you’re looking for a rewarding and comfortable stay, close to the city with local vibes, Asagaya Iriguchi is the obvious choice.

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Writer: Alani
Photographer: Kasamine