Shikkuinoyado Tenjin

The hostel was clean and comfortable, and worked perfectly as a stop on my road trip. I wish I'd had time to enjoy the common area. I think other travelers were using it, and it would've been nice to meet them. There isn't free parking, but there's paid parking right across the street and farther down it as well. The owner/manager was friendly and helpful. They don't speak much English, though that wasn't an issue for me since I know enough Japanese to communicate. I didn't use the bathing facilities. I was there for one night and had already stopped at an onsen before coming back after my day out. I'd recommend the nearby yakitori place called Miss Agatha. The owner has a really unusual, wide selection of yakitori. You won't be disappointed! Date stayed: 2022/04/29

The place felt warm because the host was so thoughtful. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station. I booked a rental bicycle by email ahead of time, and even arriving at noon, I could check in early, leave my bags, and head out comfortably. The bike has a large rear basket and an easy lock, but no front basket or gears. Matsue's downtown isn't very hilly, so getting around by bike was easy. There are no bike lanes, so I rode along the sidewalk edge. I stayed in the women-only dorm. It was relaxing, with a traditional Japanese chest of drawers and dressing table, and the door had a combination lock. My bed was very clean, with a light and power outlet but no USB plug. The Wi-Fi worked well. The bathroom was a unit type. I mentioned how incredibly soft the shower water felt, and a staff member said it was the first time anyone had complimented the shower head. At the back of the building, past the corridor beside the small garden, there's a shared space in a converted storehouse. It's stylish and lovely, and I thought it could make a great bar. I spent a fun evening there with the owner and other guests, swapping Matsue tips and travel stories. My roommate was also high quality. This is the sort of inn that would make me come back to Matsue just to stay here.

This is a renovated old Japanese-style house serving as a youth hostel, dormitory, and guesthouse, with private Japanese-style rooms available. It's about a 7-8 minute walk from Matsue Station and handy for the downtown area. There's a free washing machine, a kitchen, and one shared bath. The common floor has a beautifully renovated traditional interior, including a living room from the Meiji era. Bring your own towels and toothpaste.

COVID-19 meant there were hardly any other people around, so we had the place almost to ourselves. It felt like a real luxury. The owner was friendly while giving us plenty of space. Amenities besides towels and toothbrushes were free, and the WiFi was easy to use. I'd definitely stay here again when I visit Matsue.