Reviews of 喜庵 KIAN the guest house by the castle 2 stars

This is a lovely guesthouse run by a highly dedicated owner. We knew Matsue from previous visits but the owner, Emi, opened up several new pleasures for us. For example, she arranged a visit to a soy factory-it's at least 150 years old-and also treated us to tea. The house is within easy walking distance to the town center and there is a very good bus service. The bakery across the street is a gem, combining innovative breads, whiskey and an excellent music collection. We had fabulous sushi at a restaurant close to the laundromat. The kitchen space is perfect for breakfast. We'd love to go back to Matsue and hope to stay at Kian again.

Emi was a great host and we enjoyed our stay very much. The place is in a quiet side street next to the castle area so very convenient (and easy to reach by bus from the station). We came early and Emi made sure that everything is already ready for us and welcomed us with a tea ceremony. If we revisit Matsue one day I'm sure we will end up staying here again!

The place is comfortable. It’s like a home away from home. The cleanliness of the place is exceptional even the screen door in the shower was very clean, which I found it a hard find in any places at which I ever stayed. The owner gave me a home type of tea ceremony. We are very grateful for that. Thank you, Emi San! The location is very convenient to walk to Matsue Castle, which is also an interesting place to visit.

Nothing.

Great stay in a lovely guesthouse. Emi, the host, was amazing! She was super friendly and welcomed us with some tea and sweets. She had great tips for stuff to do around Matsue (she recommended this beautiful sunset watching spot!) and was overall a very gracious host. The room was very large and we just had the nicest and most relaxing stay in a long 24-day exploration vacation in Japan.

KIAN was a great place to stay with our family while in Matsue. We were fortunate that no one else had booked the other part of the property, so we had a nice stay to ourselves. The kitchen had snacks ready for us, which was very appreciated and helpful. The location is right by the Matsue Castle, and it's a good jumping off point for anything in the city. Our host was very kind and provided wonderful recommendations. She even made a reservation for us to tour a local soy sauce brewery, which was the highlight of our stay. If you are looking for a stay in Matsue in a traditional Japanese home, this is a great choice.

Excellent tatami room in a guesthouse in Matsue. It is close to Matsue Castle and well connected to other areas, including Matsue Station, by bus. There are some great restaurants about 10 minutes’ walk away and a nice bakery close by for breakfast. Emi-san is an exceptional host who is very welcoming and gives great advice to help you enjoy your stay. I would absolutely recommend.

Everything was great.

Emisan is amazing. She provided us with little gems about Matsue what to do, so we filled up all our 4 days we had in Matsue. The room was really nice and we had a little garden as well. The kitchen was nice and clean and you could reach everything by foot. She even has a small tearoom and she invited us to have Matcha tea and sweets.

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The location, although not close to the train station, was minutes from the castle and historic district. It was also a short walk to restaurants.The host was very nice and welcoming.

Emi san was an amazing host, she was very welcoming and kind. She provided us with a sweet snack and matcha when we arrived. Our room was perfect with a tatami floor and comfortable futons. We would highly recommend anyone to stay here when visiting Matsue!

The location was excellent, steps away from the Matsue Castle and a short walk from the restaurant and downtown area. Although we took a taxi from Matsue Station, there is also a bus that comes to the end of the street and is very convenient. Our host was excellent, very thoughtful and flexible. She gave us suggestions and recommendations and made us a reservation at a charming soba restaurant.

The guesthouse was as expected, so I have no complaints.

I really liked the surrounding in Matsue close to the castle and great restaurants. The communication and tips by Emi our host were amazing and really a big bonus. She cared for us a lot. Check in and check out we’re also flexible. The atmosphere in the rooms was very good and how you expect in an Japanese family house. It was also very clean.

Of course this is subjective. But the kitchen could be a bit cosier. Sound of other guests is generally no problem for me. But certain guest might be bothered. Something to be aware when staying in Japanese guesthouses generally. I still would never change for a hotel.

Emi was very nice. She put some yoghurt and fruit in the fridge and she offered us matcha. We felt very welcomed. She spoke good english.

The hospitality is wonderful. The room is nice. We also have a common sharing room. The location is next to the castle. The owner speaks English.

Not that I could think of.

The owner was very nice, welcoming, and shared amazing recommendations for off the beaten tracks visits.

The location was perfect both in terms of where to visit and eating out. Eni was a great host. She was always available for advice and help.

Fantastically helpful host. Lovely traditional rooms. Nice kitchen/dinning room to share

NIl