Tototo Morioka

The people

Pretty far from station

Very nice, patient and helpful staff. The host explains everything very detailed once you arrive and offers a variety of recommendations around Morioka. It’s a small Inn, therefore you get to chat with people more easily. There are explanations in English and Japanese. They also offer free drinks(non alcohol) and toilet amenities for rent. I highly recommend it!

For me everything was great, but here are some things that may could be uncomfortable for some guests: If you are very sensible to noises it may not be the best to stay as the paperwalls make it impossible to isolate the sound(But there is a rule that doesn’t allow you to make much noise between 12am and 7am which I think is quite a good idea). If you want a place close to the center and don’t want to take any buses or walk for a longer time it may not be the best fit for you too.

The owner was always available to talk to, and helped me more than once with recommendations for things to do in the city. The hostel itself had a cosy vibe, with a shared living and kitchen space and clean bathroom and shower facilities. The hostel was well signposted throughout, and even had information on nearby local landmarks, attractions, and events. Morioka Castle park was only a 15 minute walk away.

The rooms, while clean and comfortable, weren't particularly spacious and didn't have much by way of privacy, especially when three individuals are sharing a room. Noise also travelled throughout the whole noise, so it was a bit difficult to get an early nights sleep before lights out for everyone.

Clean and traditional japanese style.

There are overwhelmingly too many rules, most of which are obvious. Upon arrival, you’re required to read a five-page manual. Rules are posted absolutely everywhere in the house — they’re practically part of the decoration. You also have to make your own bed, which is unexpected for this price point. Most items aren’t free: towels, parking, earplugs, coffee, washing machine, extra pillow… On the bright side, you can rent a bicycle for 500 yen a day, which is quite cheap. When leaving, the host came to check the bedroom and bathroom in front of us to make sure we hadn’t broken any rules. Nothing unusual there, but it reinforced the feeling that we were constantly being watched over our shoulder.