Matsumoto BackPackers

This is a value for money stay. Brian the owner was very friendly and helpful. He guided us on the right train to go on the Nakasendo Trail the next day. We can send our luggage via the nearby 7-11 to Shinjuku.

Steep staircase and squeaky floors as this property is an old bungalow.

I liked the place, the arrangements, the owner and his wife are very nice people. They do this with their heart because they love it. The place is good if you are travelling solo or with friends or spouse. Walkable distance from the station and neat and clean.

Nothing in particular.

It was very laid back and friendly. I meet a lot of new friends from around the world. I ended up staying longer than planned because I liked it so much. Nice kitchen, shower, bed, etc. I stayed in nicer places before but made very few friends there to go see the sights with. But here i found many.

The AC in my bunk room only mildly worked.

I booked Matsumoto backpackers but they offered me a private room at Hanko Inn instead. It was a small room with a bunk. Comfortable bed. Great location.

I had a very strange reception from the girl working there. No hello or welcome. When I opened the door, I thought am I in the right place? She was very distant, and aloof. I had to go to an atm to get the cash to pay for the room, and again another awkward exchange when I returned. I’ve been backpacking since 2008, and the guesthouse and space reminded me of old places back then. It was run down, a little smelly , and they gave me a tiny towel. The bathroom was small, the toilet blocked easily. Hostels in Japan have pretty high standard, and this place felt so rundown and old. It was great to have a private room, but everything else, wasn’t great. I spent my two days on day hikes, so essentially the room was just a place to crash. I plan to return to Matsumoto in winter, and will not be staying here.