Matsue New Urban Hotel

The onsen is on the small side, but it's cared for and, surprisingly, welcomes guests with tattoos. That's not something I've often come across in Japan, and I appreciated it. The rooms were clean and comfortable with what I needed for a short visit, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Matsue New Urban Hotel is also well placed, close to everything, and made for a comfortable stay.

The lake view was lovely, and the lobby has a generous selection of toiletries and gifts. There's also a kombini next door. Rooms are a little snug, but designed thoughtfully, and the stay was good value.

From this waterfront hotel, you can get amazing views over the city. Staff are helpful, and there are lots of features and amenities, though some depend on the season. Plenty of places to eat are nearby, and a beautiful temple is right next door.

I chose the hotel mostly because it fit my budget and had paid parking for my road trip, but I ended up enjoying it. Matsue Castle and the park and attractions around it are within walking distance. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars across the road. The hotel restaurant looked too fancy and expensive for me, so I skipped both meals there, though the main building has a small conbini for snacks. My room was more spacious than I'm used to, enough to open my suitcase fully. The bathroom looked recently redone, the soaps were good quality, and sleepwear was provided. WiFi worked fine. The door let in some sound and light, and the headboard being under the window bothered me because of fengshui. The staff were lovely, and their English was good, which this gaijin appreciated. The reception area had the biggest amenities section I've seen, and you can borrow bicycles at the front desk to explore the lake. I'd recommend staying here and would come back if I had the chance.