Hotel New Station

The bathroom was the biggest problem for us. It was extremely narrow, with a huge step up to enter and a high-sided tub that left very little room to move. My husband could span the bathroom’s width with his outstretched arms. I’d broken my wrist just six weeks earlier, so the setup felt like an accident waiting to happen, and I was unimpressed. Because of that, I couldn’t recommend the hotel, despite its prime location close to Matsumoto’s main station and everything else. We visited in January, and it was quiet. There’s only one lift. The decor is very old and outdated, though the room was larger than a typical Japanese room. After moving the furniture, we had plenty of space for our two large suitcases. There’s a laundry and microwave on the second floor, plus a restaurant we didn’t try. The reception staff always recognized us when we returned and had our room key ready. The hotel also has a microwave and laundry on site.

It’s an older-style room, but it has what you need, and the price is reasonable. The hotel is near the train station. The women’s onsen is small, while the men’s is larger. Staff were very friendly and had the check-in papers ready before we arrived, so we just signed, picked up our key card, and could go rest without waiting. They also provided an English guide that was easy to understand.

I was especially glad the reception team helped me store my luggage before a long hiking trip. They were friendly, helpful with problems, and made me feel at home, so I looked forward to coming back for my stay. The hotel is right beside the train station. The room was very small, but the service, the on-site onsen, and the delicious breakfast made up for it. The onsen is a real plus. Trains start running early in the morning, so the room may not be as quiet then.

For an inexpensive room, it had more character than most business hotels, and the bed was comfortable enough that I slept well even while feeling unwell and unable to sleep easily. It’s very close to the station and restaurants, and the castle isn’t far either. I’d recommend it.