We stayed at the New Urban Hotel for 2 weeks in October while my husband was in Matsue for business. It is a lovely hotel in an excellent location in the city. I can’t say enough positive comments about the staff, and especially would like to mention Keiko Ueda. She goes above and beyond in making guests feel welcome and she is so helpful. Her English is very good and she repeatedly asked for feedback, did we need anything, was there anything in particular we wanted or wanted to do. All of the other staff are just as helpful, albeit many don’t speak English…however with the help of Google Translate, we had no difficulty. In staying there for 2 weeks, we were a familiar face and we’re always greeted warmly whenever we were in the lobby area. The location is excellent, about a 10 minute walk to Matsue Castle, about 15 minute walk to the Kyomise shopping district, and about 25 minute walk to the JR Matsue Transit Station, which has a wonderful Visitors Center with English speaking staff.. The hotel is directly across from Lake Shinji, and our room faced the lake providing lovely views. There is a walking path along the lake that is very nice and it is a short walk to Sunset Park to view the famous sunsets. Since my husband was working during the days, I was on my own to explore. I never felt uncomfortable or unsafe walking around this beautiful city. The city’s population is about 200K, and Matsue is known for still being “authentic Japan.” There is an on-site onsen at the hotel, which is very nice. There are separate baths for males and females and the hours are quite convenient. The lobby of the hotel has a section of travel amenities that are free to quests. Additionally, the hotel stocks a number of other items for borrowing that you might need, such as iron and ironing board. There is a laundry facility and a convenience store attached to the hotel. My only negative comment would be that the on-site buffet at the restaurant is the same for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But there are many wonderful restaurants in Matsue if you need more variety. If your travels find you going to Matsue, consider staying at the New Urban Hotel, you won’t be disappointed with the everything the hotel offers as well as the location.
YYolkieThe location is excellent, which is exact as the name across Matsue station. The staff from the front desk are very nice. You can pick up some daily necessities near the front desk (e.g. toothbrush, comb, teabags). I can open a 30 inch luggage and still have reasonable space in my room. The public bath is a bit small but cosy. It is worth to give a try if you wish to stay in Matsue overnight.