On the Marks Kawasaki

"How did it strike you on arrival?It's not in Tokyo proper—instead, it's in adjacent Kawasaki, which means this hostel has a little more room to play with. Considering the range of delights, from a music venue to a sweeping restaurant and cafe, it can certainly house a party for the young and hip. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Young and hip, whether they're from Japan or beyond. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The bunks are all neatly designed and surprisingly spacious, but opt for even more space by booking a Standard room. Not only does it come with an en-suite bathroom and shower—a bonus for anyone who simply can't share—but it also includes a minimal blonde-wood desk, a large window, and wall space for a flat-screen TV. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?In the Standard rooms, plump mattresses rest in the corner and are slightly raised above the floor. Surrounding the bed, upholstered blue wainscoting wraps around the corner much like a headboard—a clever design to keep it comfy. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Communal lounges are all spacious and edgy. Concrete floors are cozy with intimately placed two-seat tables and wraparound couches. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The communal bathrooms are immaculate with long, panoramic mirrors stretching from wall-to-wall. Hairdryers are free to use, while toiletries and towels—even toothbrushes and toothpaste—are all up for grabs, too. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free, fast Wi-Fi. Room service: Worth it?There's no bunk service, but the trendy restaurant does the trick—and does it cheaply. Mornings might take getting used to (breakfast is a Japanese curry dish), and during lunch and dinner, guests can get a taste of craft beer made in Kawasaki or Kyoto, alongside crafty, casual fare. The kitchen even cures its own bacon. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Transportation is close to the hostel, so hopping in and out of Tokyo is a swift endeavor. Kawasaki itself is less mobbed with tourists and tourist traps. Bottom line: worth it, and why?There’s more than enough atmosphere in this hip, convivial hostel, and there’s more than enough room to make it worth the subway ride." - Keith Flanagan