Accidentally stayed here for 11 days (I wanted to visit Yakushima, but the big hike was closed due to a typhoon lol). It was my 2nd time in this hostel, so I think it’s a testament to how homey it is! As with any guesthouse, it’s as (anti)social as you want it to be. Even if the 4-persons dorm room is fully occupied, it didn’t feel that cramped. Especially b/c there’s a common area where you can sit, doomscroll on your phone and/or eat and not disturb your (sleeping) roommates. It’s also a good place to engage with the other guests and potentially make friends. There’s a fridge w/ a freezer and a fully functioning kitchen. There is one toilet (the other one is a well-kept secret (^_−)) and a spacious shower room (be careful not to drop anything T^T). The futons are comfy to sleep on and the bed sheets are clean. Furthermore, you can ask for a towel. IIRC, there’s a washing machine for a few yennies, but no dryer. There are coin laundries in the vicinity, though. The building itself is probably older than Jōmon Sugi, but all the areas are kept tidy daily, so no worries there. The owner is on-site during check-in times, so it’s helpful if you have questions. If for some reason you need to study during your stay and you find the hostel doesn’t meet your needs for that, there’s actually a 24/7 library near the port where they also sell burgers and fries (don’t ask why). I think the study place was called McDonald’s? It’s a weird name for a library but the wifi there is good and past midnight, it’s full of businessmen and students, highly recommended!

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.

The hostel is charming and it feels cosy. The main reason I chose it is bc there's only 4 people per room, so you aren't packed like sardines. It's walking distance from the downtown, the port and Shiroyama. It's a 30 min straight line walk from Kagoshima-chuo station or you can use the tram/bus like a normal person. Last but not least, the owner is a lovely, cute but most of all, interesting person! She's well traveled and super smart. I could feel comfortable thanks to her calming presence. She's a good listener and endured my yapping session quite graciously...(⁠ ⁠ꈍ⁠ᴗ⁠ꈍ⁠) Dear Mrs. Mountain Forest (lol), let's become potato farmers together in our next life! Thank you~ Stay healthy and happy! ^o^♡

Nothing about the hostel, but Sakurajima was hiding behind clouds during my stay. Shy volcano 🥲

A quiet and cosy hostel with Japanese-style flooring and design, with an excellent location in downtown Kagoshima. The space and amenities were simple but the beds were very comfortable, and it is clearly evident how much the owner cares for the space and guests. During my stay over New Year's Ever, she hosted a hotpot dinner for us and I spent a lovely evening getting to eat and chat with the other guests. I would happily visit Kagoshima again and will be sure to return to Hostel Tomal when I do!

The atmosphere is good and you can just tell that the owner is a genuinly good person that cares for her guests. I made friends at the hostel and it might be one of the best places in the cities to socialize with other travellers. Common area was so cozy to relax and chill and do my things. And sleeping area has plenty of space and good air condition. Location is also very good, short walk to center, ferries, tram and observation decks.

Its good that you know its on 4th floor with no elevator in case you have problems carrying heavy luggage.

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.

The hostel is close to the port if you're heading towards Yakushima or other islands. The building has an old fashioned style as it seems that the residents here are trying to save the entire building from shutting down. Interesting stories behind. I booked a.single room, i can feel the cold wind coming through the windows, but okay if you turn on the ac. Cooking utensils are also available here. To note, the hostel is on the forth floor and has no elevator.

We booked a private room and the futons were very comfortable, everything was very clean, in a nice Japanese traditional style. The location was also great, well connected to everything we wanted to see and only 10-15mn walk to the port to visit Sakurajima. There’s also a well furnished kitchen. Bathroom is shared (only 1 shower) and two toilets. It’s great value for money!

Shoko the host was so lovely and helpful. The common areas were nice. The whole area was clean and the pillow and doona were so unbelievable comfortable. It was near a bus and tram stop so it was super easy to get places. Many yummy food spots near aswell.

As mentioned in the description of the property, there is no elevator, and it is on the 4th floor. Not a big problem at all, just something to note. The bunk bed length was a little too short for me, but I am very tall, especially for Japanese standards, so that is no fault of the owner. Bring an eye mask. The window shades do not block the morning light.

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.