Tips Hotel

The bed was surprisingly roomy and comfortable, and the whole place was very clean. The owner was really friendly, too. With FamilyMart and the station nearby, it was a great stay.

We were so at ease that my daughters didn't want to leave. The three of us stayed in a dorm room as our own private room, and it was just comfortable. We were welcomed politely and parked on site, then checked in while sitting and chatting in a Japanese-style room. There was a convenience store, supermarket, and coin laundry close by, so we had everything we needed. When we left, they took a photo to remember the trip and helped carry our bags to the parking lot. We came away happier than we would have from a bigger hotel. This is the first time I've used the rating feature, and I highly recommend the place.

The privacy-minded box bunk beds are a distinctive feature, and the shared rooms and bedrooms have been updated with a modern feel. The wooden, single-story building has a Showa-era look. At first you might not guess it's lodging, but inside it's a dorm-style guesthouse. Kiyama Station is close by, where the Kagoshima Main Line meets the Amagi Railway. Hakata Station is about 30 minutes away by express train. There's a supermarket nearby, along with Lawson and Family Mart. Access around the area is handy too. From the closest bus stop, a community bus costs 100 yen each way to the Kiyama Expressway express bus stop. Get off at the Expressway Park & ​​Ride stop to connect to various parts of Kyushu. It could be an interesting base for rail and bus trips around Kyushu, as well as visits to Fukuoka.

That soft, fluffy bed is tempting, but the six-tatami room has such a cozy, homey feel that you'll want to sleep on the tatami instead.