Otaru, Japan
4-15 Aioicho
N/A
+81 134232175
One of the best hostels I've stayed at in Japan. Friendly staff, dog, cat, fish and a very homey environment. Highly recommended for anyone in Otaru.
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This guesthouse was quaint, and quirky, and the owners were extremely lovely. I had a really great time here.
Really like the vibe of this place. The common area where travellers gather is one of the most lively ones I have seen. In the evening, people will be taking their packed meals in the common area, or have a beer or two. There is a pretty sizable collection of manga books on the book shelves and a guitar in the corner. For a small fee, you get to have a homely Japanese-style breakfast here prepared by Mayumi-san which is very delicious. At times, she will make pies and other pastries for sale and leave it at the table near the door. I remember trying to order dinner on one of the days and there are none because the owner has friends coming over for a gathering. He graciously invited me to join them in a potluck instead where he prepares soba noodles by hand, and his other friends bringing really delicious seafood, fruits and wine.
This place is awesome. It's definitely not a hotel so don't expect that or you'll be sorely disappointed. I stayed here just one night booking it through Hostel World. I think I paid less than 30 USD for a bed in a mixed dorm. This place is a cozy and warm guesthouse. The staff are really kind and there's a house dog and cat. The dog's name is Hug and she's an adorable and gentle Corgi. The house is eclectic and perfect for someone who is looking for an authentic Japanese atmosphere. There's a small reading section with books and manga, a giant DVD collection, and just cool lounging areas both inside and outside. There's a shared kitchen and the bathrooms are shared as well down a narrow hall covered with decades of memorabilia. It is also a bit off the beaten path up on a hill with other homes. I was here during the summer so it wasn't too bad of a walk to the canal or the other touristy areas. I can imagine it being tough in the snow or for older people. I did order a taxi when I first came and left the property as the luggage was too big to roll up the hills comfortably. Less than 6 USD each trip to the station. Prot tip, bring your own towel. They offer tiny towels to use after your . You can also order home cooked breakfast by Mayumi San but need to order ahead of time. WiFi is free and fast. You do need to return to the property before midnight. Would definitely visit again.
Cozy, feel the Japanese culture and cute boy
Very homely, cozy and unpretentious hostel with dormitory rooms. It was a bit of walk to the location in the residential area on the hill. Also, it was right at the middle between the Otaru station and the Minami Otaru station, so I could just use either. Both the room and bathroom weren't too spacious, but cozy and adequate enough. The hosts were welcoming and attentive. Yet, there seemed to be a strict curfew and a house rule about having to leave the place during cleaning hours. Nonetheless, it certainly was good value for the cost, and is recommended if you are looking for a stay at a homey place.
I decided to give a 1 Star for the very bad attitude of the boss at this place. He is very obviously biased towards non-Japanese speaking guests. He was very cold towards us and made us feel unwelcomed. But towards Japanese guests, he was nice and took initiative to talk to them and made jokes. It’s hard to believe but even today there is still this kind of prejudice in japan. What a shame.
Very humble lodging that will surely set you at ease
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