I realize it's stated clearly here, but I was not prepared for how large this space actually is! It is a former hostel which could easily house 10-15 people across multiple bedrooms and you get to rent the whole thing! It has an unheard-of amount of space for lodging in Japan, and it also happens to be within view of Matsumoto Castle and within easy walking distance to the main draws of Matsumoto city. Definitely don't pass on this option if you are traveling with a large family. We were sad to check out.

Stayed in May 2024

We struggled to lock the door of the entrance each time, and it was difficult to open the window of the 2nd floor (room).

Location, staff and rhe services, clean accommodation. The price ( very generous).

Stayed in May 2024

-

Perfect location. Very clean.

Stayed in April 2024

nothing

We had the whole house to ourselves staying as a family of five. The home was beautiful, very very spacious and comfortable and spotlessly clean throughout. There was every kind of appliance you could ever imagine needing throughout the house with very useful instructions on everything. The kitchen was also very well equipped. The location is next to Matsumoto castle and there is plenty of parking available nearby. The host was very kind and helpful. TOP !

Stayed in April 2024

Spacious property with a lot of possibilities for arranging your stay. Great and extremely helpful host, who was very concerned about our smallest requests. Bikes on site, which help a lot in moving around Matsumoto. The perfect location near the castle makes it a center of your stay in the city, while Matsumoto itself makes it a great starting point for one-day trips in the region. There are maps and tips all around the property. The equipment and switches are all subtitled in English, so it's much easier to use them. And last but not least: the beds/futons were the most comfortable and warm in the of our trip in Japan! Next time we'll stay much longer, it's a real home away from home! Nearby parking is just 800JPY per day, a real bargain.

Stayed in April 2024

The only thing we didn’t like was that it was quite cold, even with all the heat pumps on ( we didn’t like the kerosene heaters). Though were warm enough in bed because of the fabulous thick duvets.

The staff were excellent, they were off site of course so we never met them but the communication was outstanding! The location was fantastic and the house was as super cute.

Stayed in January 2024

Time restrictions on using the washing machine was annoying, especially with a one night stay.

A home environment gives you plenty of space and room for the family to spread out, especially with so many bed/sleeping options. Way bigger than we needed for 5, but the pricing was great value. So close the the Matsumoto Castle and easy walking to local shopping and dining.

Stayed in January 2024

A cute and very comfortable house. We felt at home straight away. The hosts were very responsive and friendly. Try the Hankyu archery that the hosts provide. It’s lots of fun!

Stayed in January 2024

Close to matsumoto castle.

Stayed in November 2023

Hippo Inn is located about 5 minutes from Matsumoto Castle, the main attraction of the city. And it is also walkable to the train station and Nakawate and Nakamachi shopping streets. The property was comfortably furnished and had all the amenities we needed during our stay. But most importantly, our host Eiryo san was very helpful and accommodating. He was very responsive and helped us in every way he could. He even helped sent our luggages to the train station when we were leaving Matsumoto.

Stayed in November 2023

Nothing.

Cosy and homely. We have been tired from travelling and the space was so lovely we pretty much stayed in all evening and watched tv in the heated table. We also slept really well! Would definitely come back.

Stayed in October 2023

A bit cluttered in the living area Some low ceilings/ doorways

Amazingly quirky.

Stayed in October 2023

The house is huge and comfortable, with all the facilities you need. The large TV with Netflix and Amazon is a big plus for my 7yo and keeps him entertained. Super close to the castle and we enjoyed the night walk. Many eateries within walking distance and we used the free bikes for a quick ride around the town too:)

Stayed in September 2023

Nothing, it was great

If you go to Matsumoto stay here. Wonderful place. You have the whole house to yourself. It is right next to Matsumoto Castle. Try the Hankyu bow and arrow which the hosts offer. It was great doing this my sons.

Stayed in July 2023

There is no parking area so you need to use coin parking which is very close.

The location was perfect! It was right next to h he Matsumoto castle. The place has everything you need. Really EVERYTHING!

Stayed in July 2023

If the group is very big. I think that it can be a long line for the shower room. But for my group only 5 pax, not a problem.

The place is cute and feel like I am home. I would recommend this place if you visit Matsumoto. This place has no parking but there is a private parking about 1 to 2 minutes walk from the place and the parking fees is about 700 JPY for whole day, very convenient. Owner is very friendly. I will stay here again for sure if I have a chance to visit Matsumoto.

Stayed in July 2023

there was nothing wrong

The location is just amazing. We loved to look inside of a japanese home and experience the hospitality.

Stayed in May 2023

i liked everything

big house, traditional Japanese style, quirky and fun, great location!

Stayed in May 2023

Everything is arranged and planned so nicely and thoughtfully it is spacious , good enough for 2 families

Stayed in April 2023

Hosts were very responsive and accommodating. They helped us with some last minute changes and we're very kind. Location was perfect for walking to the Matsumoto castle ice festival, which was what we were visiting for. The family room was so fun for the kids. The kids also enjoyed the bunk beds and mom and dad had our own space just down the hall. Heaters were provided for the chilly evening that warmed us up after enjoying the cold night of ice sculpture adventures.

Stayed in January 2023

nothing. it was perfect for our 6 travelers.

it’s quirky old school Japanese vibe.

Stayed in February 2023

As it´s a very old house you need to heat every single room with the heaters. Well, it´s winter, so we managed...there were enough heaters so we could keep the rooms we used warm and cosy...

The house was very spacious, it was probably a hostel with a lot of rooms before Covid19, as everything was accommodated for it. Very good location next to the Matsumoto Castle. The host was so super nice, he even gave us access to his private Cable TV to be able to watch the World Cup, as Argentina was playing the Finals! It was very important for me to watch the game, as I´m Argentinian.

Stayed in December 2022

nothing

Great location, would be ideal for a bigger group. Having Netflix was a nice touch

Stayed in November 2022

shared space, kids area, beds

Stayed in April 2022