Guesthouse RICO

We are a town planning company dedicated to revitalizing communities by renovating unused and vacant buildings. Since our founding in 2015, we’ve been leading the area development and neighborhood management of the Daishin district—where Guesthouse RICO is located. In 2023, we opened a new hostel, Charlie’s Bed, designed especially for cyclists and long-term travelers. Our accommodations are created with care and intention—reusing existing buildings and thoughtfully incorporating reclaimed materials such as vintage wood, fittings, and furniture salvaged from nearby demolition sites. The result is a warm, comfortable space that feels both grounded and inviting. But what truly defines us is our people. Our team shares a common mission and a deep love for Wakayama. We warmly welcome every guest, and beyond giving travel tips, we’re happy to introduce you to the people and places that make this city so unique. More than just a place to stay, we hope our guesthouses can be a starting point for real connection—with the city, with the community, and with people along the way.

Experience a warm and welcoming stay that blends seamlessly into the heart of Wakayama. Just a 10-minute walk from Wakayama Castle, Guesthouse RICO is a renovated 1969 apartment building, thoughtfully transformed into a guesthouse that also serves as a hub for local culture and community. With a bar & dining space, coworking area, shared kitchen, and shared office, RICO is where travelers and locals gently connect. Our guest rooms are simple yet full of character, designed using reclaimed wood, antique fittings, and vintage furniture rescued from nearby demolition sites. Each room offers a warm and comfortable space with a unique story. We offer a variety of room types to suit your travel style—dormitory beds for those who enjoy sharing space, private rooms with shared bathrooms for a bit more privacy, and fully-equipped rooms with kitchen appliances for longer stays. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms. Wakayama is the perfect city for slow, lifestyle-style travel. From RICO, you can explore seaside hot springs, relax on the beach, or enjoy a day of café hopping in the local neighborhoods. With our rental bikes, the beach is just 30 minutes away. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s living like a local. Time flows gently here. Whether you're reading on the terrace or rooftop, or sharing a quiet moment with fellow guests in our book-filled lounge, RICO offers space to pause and connect. In the bar & dining area, we serve craft beers, homemade cheesecake, and crispy fries—a favorite among locals, too. You might just find yourself caught up in a lively conversation or making a new friend. At Guesthouse RICO, where travel meets the everyday rhythm of Wakayama, we invite you to slow down and enjoy a stay that feels like home.

The Daishin neighborhood, where Guesthouse RICO is located, is a historically rich area that once thrived with textile and paper wholesalers, especially before and after World War II. Today, it retains its nostalgic charm while welcoming new energy and creativity. Right across the street is Kōfuku-yu, a beloved local sento (public bath) known for its sauna. Within walking distance, you’ll find long-standing local businesses such as Suwaen Chaho, a tea shop with over 100 years of history; Nakaroku Pharmacy, offering customized herbal remedies; and Matsuo Sake Shop, specializing in local Wakayama sake. In recent years, new cafés, bagel shops, and restaurants with a focus on fermentation and seasonal ingredients have opened, breathing fresh life into the traditional streetscape. Grabbing some takeout and enjoying a picnic in a nearby park is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. A short walk beyond the Daishin area brings you to even more dining options—ranging from lively izakayas and cozy Italian spots to ethnic eateries—along with convenience stores, supermarkets, and discount shops. Wakayama Station is about a 15-minute walk, and the iconic Wakayama Castle is just 10 minutes away on foot. Beaches suitable for swimming and seaside relaxation are easily accessible within 30 minutes by bus or rental bicycle. Wakayama City offers a rare balance of urban convenience and natural beauty. With its warm-hearted locals and delicious food culture, it’s a place where you can truly relax and feel at home.