Sendai Guest House Umebachi

The host and his wife made this feel like the best hostel in Sendai. They have a warm, welcoming atmosphere that brought everyone together. He's a chef, so reserve a place for the nightly dinner he makes with local ingredients. I stayed four nights and it felt like coming home. Leaving was sad because the atmosphere was so lovely. They were helpful beyond that too. When I wanted to get my teeth cleaned there, he called to book an appointment, helped me with the intake forms, and arranged my next hostel in Aomori.

Umebachi was a lovely place to return to after a day of resting and sightseeing in Sendai during my long-distance cycling trip. The staff were friendly, and the guesthouse felt like home. It's in a quiet neighborhood, and I could safely leave my bicycle in the garden. The facilities were clean and the beds comfortable. Both evenings I reserved the staff-cooked meal, and the food was delicious. I also enjoyed the company and atmosphere. The lights-out hours, 23:00-08:00, didn't suit me well as an early sleeper and riser, but otherwise I highly recommend stopping here.

I was very comfortable in the dorm at Umebachi. The bed and duvet were high quality, and I especially liked the little work spaces on the second floor. Yuan Nong and Hana were very friendly and looked after the guests attentively. The city center is only a short ride away. Definitely stay here if you're in Sendai.

Good people and easygoing energy made our time in Sendai feel like home. The owners were so welcoming and happy to chat about anything, and the staff were incredibly warm. Breakfast is included, and everyone does a Japanese exercise together each morning. The owner used to be a chef and can make a lovely dinner and a fancy drink. I’d go for the Ume plum wine. I can’t think of a bad thing to say, and I’d happily recommend it.