Fukuoka Tabiji Hostel

Ray at reception was SO cool and gave exemplary service. The location is decent, though being near the bridge and main road means you hear street noise. The room had a body odor smell, which was gross, and there were no paper towels. The tiny entrance where you have to take off your shoes was uncomfortable. If guests need to remove their shoes, the space should at least make that easy. It’s a common issue in Japan. Also, 4.6 feels a little high.

I won’t come back or recommend this place to friends. I was already debating switching somewhere else, but my schedule was too tight, and then the guy downstairs started snoring. The friendly staff member I saw at check-in doesn’t change the fact that this is an unattended hostel. When I mentioned the room smell, I was told it had always been that way. The website doesn’t warn you about the steep stairs to the downstairs bathroom. There wasn’t a cup or mug for the tap water the staff member suggested, and the bedside lamp didn’t work, even though there’s a “lights out after 10 PM” rule on the wall. There’s no place to eat nearby, and most places close by 10 PM.

The staff made us feel welcome, and there are lots of restaurants around. It’s also well located near Watanabe metro station. I’d definitely recommend it.

The room was clean, with two shared bathrooms and a shower in the building. The communal area is small, but it’s a good spot to meet people. The bunk bed felt a bit expensive, though it’s within the Fukuoka price range.