The Mahjong Boutique Hostel in Hong Kong

The area around the hostel is mostly residential, with lots of schools nearby, so you’ll often see kids walking to and from school. It’s a quiet neighborhood overall, and as a solo female traveler, I felt totally safe walking around, even at night. The hostel itself feels like a good reflection of Hong Kong - crowded, compact, and could use a bit of upkeep.

My room had a separate private shower shared among eight girls, which was a nice setup. However, one of the two sinks in our bathroom leaked nonstop. It’s clearly been an ongoing issue because the sink was rusted, such a waste of water. The showers in the main female bathroom were pretty small, with no space to change or hang clothes without everything getting wet. The one I used was right up against a window and rusty railing, which didn’t feel super clean.

The hostel is small, which actually makes it easier to meet people since everyone hangs out in the same communal area near the front desk and kitchenette. There’s a mini fridge and microwave for guests, and they provide hair dryers. Each bed also has a small safe that you can access with your key card, which was convenient.

The beds themselves were not the most comfortable. The curtain around each bunk is thin and see-through, so there’s basically no privacy. My mattress was also really uncomfortable, I could feel every spring. After realizing other beds in my room had mattress toppers, I asked for one, but the staff didn’t believe me when I said mine didn’t. After checking, they said there weren’t any extras and instead gave me a thin blanket and even a SCARF. It’s a bit concerning that a hostel doesn’t have spare comforters or toppers available.

There’s also nowhere to hang wet towels, so everyone ended up draping them around the room, which made it smell pretty bad. It’d be great if they added towel racks or hooks, either in the bathrooms or near the luggage shelves.

On the plus side, they offer printing for a small fee (super convenient), and their laundry service is quick, they say it takes a day, but I got my clothes back in under 24 hours. (UPDATE: after years with my bras, the ones they washed are becoming undone and the side of them unglued...? I've had them for years and after they washed them, they ruined two $60 USD bras.... do not wash your undergarments with them) There’s also free water refill in the common area. The couches there could definitely use a deep clean, though.

Overall, it’s an okay place for a short stay if you don’t mind tight quarters. The location feels safe and local, and it’s easy to meet people, but the place could use some maintenance and small upgrades to make it more comfortable.

I wasn't an overnight guest. I was just there to visit a guest. The decor and lounge were decent. Staff were friendly and helpful. Good place for a cheap stay.