Bed and Craft

Bed and Craft, Nanto, Japan: A Deep Dive into an Artisan-Inspired Retreat

Bed and Craft in Nanto, Japan, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a truly unique and immersive experience, blending traditional Japanese artisanry with modern comfort across its scattered accommodations. Guests consistently praise its inspiring design, the opportunity for cultural engagement, and the exceptional hospitality of its staff.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment - Outstanding and Inspiring

The general consensus for Bed and Craft is overwhelmingly positive, with guests describing it as "outstanding" and providing an "unforgettable Japanese experience." It boasts high ratings, including a 10/10 from some guests, reflecting exceptional comfort and value. The sentiment is one of delight and inspiration, often wishing for longer stays.

2. Key Highlights - Design, Culture, and Seamless Comfort

Guests consistently highlight several aspects that make Bed and Craft stand out:

• Design & Concept: The property is celebrated for its beautiful, inspiring design, showcasing all-wood flooring, walls, and decorations. The unique concept of staying in artisan homes, where accommodations are viewed as works of art embellished by skilled craftspeople, is a major draw.
• Cultural Immersion: The opportunity to engage with Nanto's rich woodworking heritage, known for its 80 workshops, is a significant highlight. Guests can even participate in crafting classes, such as lacquer or woodcarving workshops, providing a hands-on cultural experience.
• Modern Amenities within Tradition: While deeply rooted in tradition, the accommodations offer modern amenities, including large kitchens, private entrances, and appliances like washing machines, ensuring a comfortable and home-like stay.
• Exceptional Service: The staff receives high praise for being "wonderful," "lovely, friendly people," and providing flawless service, including concierge assistance for local activities.

3. Room Quality - Artistic, Comfortable, and Well-Equipped

Bed and Craft manages several rental houses, each individually furnished and decorated, often described as spacious, comfortable, and beautifully appointed. The rooms feature elegant designs, with some, like the MITU accommodation, utilizing hinoki cypress. Guests can expect:

• Comfort and Design: Accommodations are noted for their comfort and the artistic touches that make them feel like staying in a gallery.
• Kitchenette Facilities: Each accommodation includes a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, and cookware/dishes.
• Bathroom Amenities: Bathrooms feature separate bathtubs and showers, toilets with electronic bidets, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers.
• Thoughtful Extras: Free minibar items, slippers, and complimentary wireless internet access are provided. Housekeeping is typically provided once per stay.

4. Dining Experience - Delightful Breakfast, Limited On-site Options

While Bed and Craft does not have on-site dining options beyond breakfast, the breakfast experience itself is highly regarded.

• Breakfast Delivery: For guests who book a plan with breakfast included, it is delivered directly to their room at a scheduled time.
• Quality Ingredients: The breakfast often includes bread from the popular Baker's House KUBOTA, along with fresh vegetables.
• External Dining: The concept encourages guests to explore the town's restaurants, with the concierge available to provide recommendations and make arrangements.

5. Service & Staff - Warm, Helpful, and Seamless

The service and staff at Bed and Craft are consistently praised as exceptional.

• Hospitality: Guests describe the staff as "wonderful," "lovely, friendly," and providing a warm welcome.
• Concierge Services: A dedicated town concierge guides first-time visitors, offering information about the accommodation and the town, and assisting with special requests like anniversary arrangements or booking local workshops.
• Seamless Communication: Communication with "reception" or the concierge is noted as seamless. Self check-in options are also available for convenience.

6. Location & Accessibility - Cultural Hub in a Charming Town

Bed and Craft is located in Inami, a charming and picturesque town within Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, renowned for its woodworking artisanry and numerous workshops.

• Local Attractions: Nearby attractions include Inami Children Park (0.19 km) and Shotaro Ikenami Fureai-kan (0.37 km). The Betsuin Zuisen-ji temple, a significant wooden structure, is also a focal point of the town's heritage.
• Transportation:
  • Train: Fukuno Station is approximately 5.53 km (3.4 miles) away, and Takagi Station is 4.3 miles away.
  • Bus: Access to Inami is convenient from Kanazawa Station via the Kaetsunou Bus (approximately 75 minutes), with the check-in lounge a 5-minute walk from the Inami bus stop "Transportation Plaza." Buses also run from Shin-Takaoka Station.
  • Car: The property is about 10 minutes from the Hokuriku Expressway "Tonami IC" and offers free parking near each accommodation for one car.
  • Airport: Toyama Airport is approximately 38.86 km (24.1 miles) away.
• Neighborhood: The accommodations are scattered throughout the town, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere and explore the streets lined with wooden carving workshops.

7. Value & Pricing - A Worthwhile Investment in Experience

While specific pricing can vary based on dates and accommodation type, rates for Bed and Craft start from approximately $240 USD. Children aged 3 to 12 years old stay for ¥13,860 per person per night when using an existing bed, while children up to 2 years old stay for free. Guests consider it a good value, especially given the exceptional comfort, unique design, and the enriching cultural experiences offered. The comprehensive amenities, including kitchenettes and free minibar items, further contribute to its perceived value.

8. Common Complaints - Minor Considerations

While guest reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points of consideration have been noted:

• No On-site Restaurant: Beyond breakfast, there are no on-site dining options, meaning guests need to venture out for other meals. However, the concierge service helps with restaurant recommendations.
• No Elevators: The property consists of historic buildings, and as such, does not have elevators, which might be a consideration for guests with mobility issues.
• Pets Not Allowed: Bed and Craft has a strict no-pets policy.
• Scattered Accommodations: While part of the "entire town is your hotel" concept, the scattered nature of the facilities might require some walking to reach workshops or the check-in lounge.

Sources

1. trip.com
2. wanderlog.com
3. bedandcraft.com
4. tablethotels.com
5. expedia.co.jp
6. bedandcraft.com
7. michelin.com
8. hotels.com
9. bedandcraft.com