Top 5 Hostels and Budget Stays in Otaru

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A serene snowy scene in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan, featuring a forest and a wooden shelter.
Chelsea TEY, Pexels

Otaru offers a modest selection of budget-friendly accommodation, primarily consisting of hostels and welcoming guesthouses. These establishments generally provide a clean, comfortable, and often social environment, catering to travelers who appreciate a more local and relaxed experience rather than a bustling party scene.

1. Otaru YaDo

Type: Hostel

This hostel provides a very clean and organized environment with a super cozy lobby. The facilities are thoughtfully designed, including spacious toilets, which is a notable comfort for a hostel. It offers a comfortable and practical base for exploring Otaru.

2. Little Barrel

Type: Hostel

Guests find this hostel to be exceptionally clean, with the unique experience of preparing one's own bed linen upon arrival. The communal areas are well-equipped with kitchen utensils, tableware, and coffee, fostering an atmosphere where guests often gather for meals, encouraging casual social interaction.

3. Otaru Tap Room & Hostel

Type: Hostel

Located conveniently near Otaru JR Station and the canal, this hostel features a bar and a spacious, well-designed common area. Upon checking in, guests are offered a welcome drink, contributing to a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where social connections can naturally form. The staff are welcoming and provide helpful information about the facilities.

4. The Otaornai Backpacker's Hostel Morinoki

Type: Backpacker's Hostel / Guesthouse

Housed in an old Japanese building, this hostel offers a wonderfully cozy and relaxed atmosphere, akin to a friendly homestay. The staff are known for being exceptionally helpful and welcoming. A shared kitchen is available, and delicious traditional Japanese breakfasts can be enjoyed. The presence of a well-behaved house cat and dog adds to the endearing, home-like charm, making it a memorable stay for those seeking a personal touch.

5. Guesthouse Otaru Wanokaze

Type: Guesthouse

This guesthouse is noted for its friendly owner and staff, who occasionally prepare and share meals like udon with guests, creating a warm, community-like experience. The premises are kept very clean, ensuring a comfortable stay.