Kure – Sumarbústaðir

Hisami Bretland

A unique self-catering experience which includes the added attraction of the adjacent H F Royce Museum which has a small (18 vehicles) but interesting collection of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars - a must for car enthusiasts. Indeed, the 'quality' element of the cars is reflected in the accommodation - illuminated with Swarovski crystal chandeliers, equipped with fine Noritake and Wedgwood china, not to mention the latest Panasonic washlet toilets. Sasakojima Cottages is an unusual destination, I think, for European visitors to Japan as it is a bit off the beaten track but it has a lovely location fronting onto a beautiful bay looking southward to the Inland Sea and multiple islands. If you are looking to chill, this is the place but you will most probably need to hire a vehicle to get out and about. It provides excellent self-contained accommodation (we stayed for nearly two weeks) and as there is not too much choice in the way of nearby eateries, you will most probably want to do a daily shop for food. That said, Sasakojima Cottages has a very good lunchtime only restaurant. Opened earlier in 2022, Sasakojima Cottages clearly caters for Japanese visitors stopping for only one or two nights. I would encourage the extraordinary owner or manager to pack a bag and stay for three or four nights on a purely self-catering basis to fully realise the potential of this beautifully-located and unique venue.

Daniel Bretland

the traditional feel. very beautiful scenery and quiet location