In 2010, 90% of Sawanoya's guests were foreigners, and 10% were Japanese. In 2011, 77% were foreigners, and 23% were Japanese. People from more than 100 countries have stayed at Sawanoya. 90% of foreign guests are independent travelers, and 70% of them are from western countries, many of whom stay in Japan for a relatively long period, and travel around the country. According to the landlord of Sawanoya, an aim of travelers is to travel, and accommodations are just means. They want to enjoy a variety of accommodations, including guest-houses, family-run inns, budget hotels, tourist hotels and cheap hotels. The landlord also said contact with people in countries and regions, which travelers visit, and kindness of local residents are more memorable than gorgeous hotels and cuisine. His talk reflected Japanese hospitality.