Benches, blackboards, and wooden chairs evoke nostalgia for our school days. At Sunsunkan Lodge, now you can sleep in school and not get in trouble! Sunsunkan is a former elementary school that has been converted into a simple lodge. Classrooms have been converted into guest rooms, and all of the furniture (well, except the beds) are actual school furniture. The building itself is made of wood, fitting for its surroundings in the forested hills of western Minamisanriku.

"This school-turned-guesthouse, run by former students, is very interesting," explains manager Ms. Aiko Abe. "Here, you can enjoy many green-tourism experiences related to the area including agriculture, fishing, and forestry experiences." In addition to activities, there are also events and markets held here, lending the establishment a lively atmosphere.

Ms. Abe herself is well-traveled and an experienced chef. She specializes in hearty and delicious meals built around local greens, root vegetables, and beans, with sides of fresh-baked bread and other treats. She is happy to prepare meals for vegetarians, vegans, Muslims, and people with other dietary restrictions. Outside there is a communal pizza oven, perfect for warm summer evenings. Meals are available for day-trippers as well as overnight guests (reservations required for either).