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Japanese traveler Daisuke Kajiyama, who had been backpacking around the world for years, returned home to Japan with his Israeli partner Hila to pursue their dream of opening a guesthouse. However, they faced two major obstacles: limited funds and a desire for a traditional Japanese house known as kominka. Unable to find a suitable traditional house, Kajiyama explored abandoned homes in Japan’s countryside, which are increasing due to younger generations moving to cities for jobs. In Tamatori, Kajiyama discovered two neglected houses near a river and negotiated an agreement with the owner to use them for his guesthouse. While the tradition of home ownership in Japan prevents him from purchasing both houses, he made an agreement to take responsibility for them. Kajiyama renovated the 90-year-old guesthouse himself, using traditional materials he collected from building companies breaking down old houses. He saved money by using these materials and received some financial support from the government and help from a carpenter and Japan’s working holiday program. In 2014, the couple welcomed their first guests and Kajiyama fulfilled his dream. Sadly, Hila passed away in 2022. Kajiyama continues to work on the guesthouse, considering it a never-ending project. While he can’t complete work while guests are present, he spends the winter months as a bamboo farmer. Despite the challenges, Kajiyama remains grateful for the opportunity to have his own guesthouse and connect with guests from around the world.