Hostel Tomal

It was really cute, had a great sleep the host was also really nice. She let me store my bike on the 4th floor

Tomal is a backpacker’s haven in Kagoshima. It’s comfortable, charming, and provides the necessary facilities for someone passing through. The staff was very friendly, and the whole place is filled with quirky features. On the 4th floor and no elevator?!?! Ha ha — I know it’s not the property’s fault, but if I have to write something I didn’t like, it was all the steps to get to the hostel.

The staff was great! We didn't interact much, but it was pleasant. I like the spirit of Hostel Tomal. I like that they're creatively using and breathing life into an old building. There are similar cool projects in the surrounding area--old buildings with cafes, art galleries, book stores, etc. This place is not quiet. It breaks my heart to write this--because the staff was great and I love the concept of this hostel--but I was very uncomfortable there. The most important part of an accommodation is sleep and I hardly slept at all. Being an old building, there isn't any soundproofing. Even with ear plugs, I was kept up by the chatter of guests in common spaces, the rumble and occasional roar of vehicles on the streets outside, and the rattle of the neighboring room's AC unit outside my window. Also, quite a bit of light streamed into my private room through the space between the sliding doors from the kitchen immediately outside (a kitchen light was left on all night, perhaps for safety because guests need to get up to walk to the toilet at night). And these weren't a big deal for me but I'll also mention that my private room door didn't have a lock and there was significant dust on the light fixtures in the bathroom. I'm glad that some people have a great stay at this hostel because it's a great concept and the staff is delightful, but I have to be honest about my experience. I booked this hostel because the reviews were so high and many reviews list the word "quiet." Being sensitive and a light sleeper, I thought the private room here would be perfect for me. But it wasn't. It was very unpleasant.

It is a condemned building and an electricans nightmare. If you are okay with unprotected power outlets and bare lightbulbs in the shower it's great.

A very cosy den close to the JR Kagoshimachuo railway station and also next to the tram station. Very friendly and a helpful hostess too. Will definitely visit again when I come back to Kagoshima!

Quirky, cosy hostel on the fourth floor of an unremarkable building. The hostel has a large common area, kitchen, one shower room, two sinks and two toilets. The hostel is clean but the building is old. It is in an excellent location, being just steps away from a bus and tram stop and an easy 10 minute walk to the Yakushima ferry terminal. It is also an easy walk to the main entertainment area of Kagoshima. And it's excellent value. It was very easy to chat with other guests here. Would stay again. The building does have an elevator, but it doesn't work. Be prepared to carry your luggage to the fourth floor.

Amazing stay!

Let the host know when you will be arriving as there is not someone there during the day until 4pm. The top bunk bed is a little hard so just be prepared for that. Also make sure to notice that its on the 4th floor with no elevator. That was my mistake for not reading the photo.

None

The vibes were immaculate --this is a restored property and I think the designs are mostly original, I stayed near the kitchen in a solo room and my room was bigger than I expected. The hostess was also super friendly and nice to talk to. It wasn't an issue for me in particular, but I do think the 4 floor walk up may be an issue for some people.

I really enjoyed the classic Showa style of the room. It might not be for everyone but it was very cool to sleep on a futon on a tatami mat. Shoko, the manager was very nice and helpful and they have a great café downstairs called Sui. It is very close to the ferry for Sakurajima.

There was construction going on in the hotel, but I am looking forward for it after the construction is over.

Exceptional

Quaint and well-maintained hostel with historical charm and a very kind owner.

Location was really good! The tatami room was very comfortable and the kitchen was well equiped. Bathroom - needs renovation No elevator

Very good

best hostel I’ve been in my 5 weeks trip to Japan!! Amazing flat, traditional and comfortable, great location, staff is super friendly!! not always very clean but I guess it also depends on other guests

This is a very good hostel, it feels very homely. Basic accomodation, but great prices and great location!

The best part about this hostel was the great atmosphere. It had a great traditional feel and was also easy to relax at. I was staying in the winter, but it didn't feel too cold. I'm a westerner so I'm not used to sleeping on the floor, but the bed could have been a bit more comfortable. Also be advised that the shower doesn't provide towels.

The host was amazing, so friendly and welcoming. She allowed me to store my luggage before check in time which I was grateful for! The property is close to the observation platform which was nice to explore while I waited to check in. The room was clean and had a window view, it was quite big I was expecting a lot smaller so was pleasantly surprised. There was only one toilet so had to listen out for it to be free as was occupied often in the evening. I couldn’t see if there was an elevator but it’s up on the 4th floor of the building so may be difficult if carrying several luggage.