Hokkaido
31
My Solo Trip to Otaru Was the Best
I wanted to travel and stay at OMO! So I decided to go to Otaru.
I have stayed at several OMOs before, and this one was also very comfortable.
[What I Liked]
1️⃣ The lounge is amazing. It’s located in a historic building designated by Otaru city, so just walking down the corridor to the lounge was exciting (part of the hotel).
I used it at night, so there was an oil lamp on the table, creating a slightly dim and relaxing space. I had a wonderful time listening to antique music boxes.
2️⃣ The area around the hotel is quiet.
The hotel is surrounded by apartments and other hotels, making it feel as if it is in a residential area, which was very peaceful during my stay.
3️⃣ Tourist spots are within walking distance.
It is a walkable distance from Otaru Station, though returning involves some uphill walking.
You can walk to Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Street easily, so it's very convenient.
4️⃣ Affordable coin rates.
Among other OMOs, the price to stay here is appealing as it is reasonable.
[Things I Was Slightly Concerned About]
1️⃣ The faucet at the sink was short, causing the area around the basin to get wet when washing my face or hands. I wish it were a bit longer.
2️⃣ There was no bathtub.
This was a complete oversight on my part, but the room I stayed in did not have a bathtub. In April, it was not freezing cold, but in colder seasons, just having a shower might be uncomfortable.
3️⃣ The water server was inconvenient.
In some other OMOs, there are water servers on the guest floors, but this one only has it on the first floor where the front desk is. It was difficult to fill my bottle with water here.
I think each OMO has its unique characteristics, and despite both the good and concerning aspects, I would love to stay again.
OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts
Tokyo
5
A Compact and Clean Room
I watched the movie this time and made a reservation since I would return late at night. The location was easy to find from the station.
The room had a roll screen for a door, and it contained a reclining bed. The reclining and lighting of the bed are operated via a built-in iPod. However, the iPod interfered with the charger, and when I arrived, it had no charge.
I could place my luggage at my feet and on the shelf above my head. I could stand inside the room, but when the recliner is flat, I couldn't stand inside the roll curtain. I could either stand outside or turn the bed into a sofa shape to stand!
When I checked in at the front desk, there was an amenity bar where I took what I needed.
There were three toilets and three showers. At the timing I went, I practically had the entire floor to myself, and I rarely ran into other people.
I returned home late at night and had to check out early in the morning for work, but the alarm had automatic reclining and automatic lights, so I could wake up for sure (laughs). You can set it from the iPod.
There was only one elevator, so it was crowded. It seems good to move early.
I was glad to have a safe place to sleep at night◎ I would like to stay again if there is another earliest screening.
The Millennials Shibuya
Kyoto
31
HOTEL ANTEROOM KYOTO｜Stay in an Art Gallery and Write a Letter to Yourself in Kyoto
Kyoto is a place you want to visit over and over, with endless opportunities to explore delicious food and historical old shops.
Anteroom Kyoto is my other home in Kyoto.
Leaving behind the hustle and bustle around Kyoto Station, Kawaramachi, and Kiyomizu Temple, this place is quiet and laid-back.
As a representative work of UDS's early renovation projects, HOTEL ANTEROOM KYOTO has held various art exhibitions for many years. The spacious white spaces serve as a gallery display area, allowing you to naturally slow down every time you enter or exit the hotel.
I heard that many guests regularly come back because each visit might encounter new artworks.
The feeling of living in an art gallery is truly addictive.
While waiting for check-in, I always find myself wandering around looking at the exhibitions; the beauty of this space is easily distracting.
After dropping off my luggage, I go to the garden to admire the moss landscape, and then take a walk to a nearby public bath to relax my body and mind before returning to my room. The lighting, decor, and amenities in the room continue the high quality selected by UDS hotels.
I particularly love the wooden tray in the room, which holds a mug, a glass, and tea bags. Although these items were likely bought separately, why do they seem like a perfect match on this tray?
With beautiful cups and trays, making a cup of tea and enjoying snacks feels like a delightful afternoon tea.
In the evening, I can have a drink and enjoy a moment of tipsiness; then I pull out some stationery from the drawer to write a letter to myself.
Finally, I choose my favorite essential oils and bath salts from the lobby, as HOTEL ANTEROOM takes care of even the spa experience.
Rather than just accommodation, I feel this is a complete healing journey.
Every step invites you to calm down and slow down.
Anteroom means "waiting room," a transitional space connecting one journey to the next. I highly recommend arranging to stay here on the last night of your trip, to fully reflect on the joy of the journey and organize your mental and physical rhythms.
Although it's about a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station, this distance also helps you escape the noise and crowds.
On the day I checked in, I took a taxi from Kyoto Station, costing around 500 yen; upon check-out, I walked about 8 minutes to the subway Kuju station. I felt no inconvenience—in fact, I deliberately sought this "off-the-beaten-path" pace.
This time, although I stayed in a Semi Double room, I heard that if there are vacant rooms, they will try to arrange a complimentary upgrade. I ended up being upgraded to a 25-square-meter room, which was quite sufficient for a solo traveler.
In short, Anteroom Kyoto feels like an old friend you can't wait to see again, with surprises waiting each time.
I hope you too have the opportunity to come here and experience that tranquil passage of time.
HOTEL ANTEROOM KYOTO（UDS HOTELS）
Okinawa
6
Enjoy Hands-Free with Free Coin Lockers Before and After Check-In
In this hotel, you can store your suitcase in a free locker even before check-in or after check-out. As soon as you enter, the front desk is right there and to the left, there's an elevator that takes you up to the upper floor where there are free lockers available. Since it's within walking distance to International Street, after using the locker, you can go out for souvenir shopping or enjoy food stalls which I highly recommend.
The yagura room is a very relaxing space, and the bath is separated into a tub and washing area, which made it comfortable to use. The welcome drink provided in the refrigerator was also a nice touch.
OMO5 Okinawa Naha by Hoshino Resorts
Tokyo
7
Directly Connected to Keikyu Line: A Hotel You Can Relax In, No Matter the Weather
If you're utilizing Haneda Airport, especially for early morning or late-night flights, I highly recommend this hotel for both international and domestic flights. It is directly connected to the Keikyu station, allowing for access without worrying about rain or wind, which is a significant advantage. It's just one train stop to the domestic terminal, making it easy to check out smoothly in time for your flight, starting your journey stress-free.
The hotel bed was a double size, and both my middle school daughter and I were able to sleep comfortably. The room was clean and allowed for a safe stay.
On the top floor, the open-air hot spring "Izumi Sky Spa" offers a unique experience where you can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and airplanes, which you can't experience in other hotels. The amenities are plentiful, making it easy to enjoy without bringing a lot of things. The ability to use it multiple times for 2,000 yen is also attractive.
In terms of access, once you exit the Keikyu station, it connects to the second floor, and as you walk through the Haneda Airport Garden, you will see the sign for "Villa Fontaine." There's a convenience store nearby, making it very convenient. You can take the elevator to the front desk.
Thanks to the automatic check-in machines, we were able to check in and out smoothly. Additionally, foreign currency exchange and luggage storage services are also well-managed, making it a comfortable hotel for both travel and business trips.
Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport
Nagasaki
5
【Incredible Value!】 Large Hotel Along Glover Street
〈Accommodation Background〉
Among the numerous hotels in Nagasaki, I chose this one because I could stay at the Crowne Plaza for just 300 coins! Although it is a bit far from Nagasaki Station, it is comforting to know that you can easily reach it by bus or streetcar.
〈Review〉
Despite the economical amount of coins, there was nothing particularly different from other Crowne Plazas, and a solid sense of luxury was felt. The front desk service was also good.
It is adjacent to Glover Hill, and Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden are about a 2-3 minute walk away. There are many shops along the way, making it an enjoyable walk!
ANA CROWNE PLAZA NAGASAKI GLOVERHILL
Beijing
11
【Adjacent to Beijing Airport (China)】安心のヒルトン - Free Shuttle Service Available
〈Accommodation History〉
Since I had a layover in Beijing that crossed days, I was looking for a hotel with minimal travel burden near the airport. I found this hotel, which is about a 5-10 minute free bus ride from the airport, and I stayed here. It was a great help that I could stay at a Hilton brand hotel with about 500 coins for two people.
〈Review〉
As expected of Hilton, it felt just as reassuring as staying at a Hilton in Japan. The shuttle bus from the airport arrived quickly, causing no stress for transportation. There was a note saying the tap water is drinkable but not recommended, so I suggest opting for mineral water.
〈Caution〉
Since there is no convenience store, it’s recommended to procure items from the convenience store inside the airport (written as 便利店 in Chinese). Additionally, room service is available and may be slightly cheaper than in Japan. Ordering requires downloading a Chinese SNS to place the order.
* In the second photo, it was about 7,000 yen including service charges.
You won't get free Wi-Fi unless you are a member of Hilton. Therefore, I recommend contracting an overseas roaming plan with your usual mobile operator in Japan. In this case, you won't face the restrictions of sites in China and can use your smartphone just like when you are in Japan.
I had trouble finding the departure point for the free shuttle, but it was right outside exit 5. Just for your reference.
Hilton Beijing Capital Airport
Tokyo
13
【Excellent Airport Access!】 A Beautiful Hotel with Free Curry, Udon, and Manga
〈Accommodation Background〉
Finding a hotel around Haneda Airport was a challenge due to rising hotel prices in the metropolitan area.
I checked various booking sites, and I found this hotel, which was over 25,000 yen on other sites, could be reserved for about 500 coins on HafH.
The access is a 5-10 minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station.
〈Review〉
In conclusion, it was such a good hotel that I would consider repeating my stay!
First, the wealth of free services was impressive. There was a 24-hour available 'udon, curry, and drink bar,' and also unlimited manga reading! As someone who just returned, I was very happy to have udon.
Next, the cleanliness was also impressive. Being new, there were no noticeable dirt spots in the front, elevator, or room, allowing me to use it with peace of mind!
〈Summary〉
With a location within a 10-minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station, it's a hotel that is easy on the budget. The free services mentioned above are also great, so please consider it!
Quintessa Hotel Tokyo Haneda Comic&Books
Fukuoka
5
Great Location and Very Satisfied!
It was very convenient as it was directly connected to Canal City Hakata!
Since I had kids with me, I could move without an umbrella even on rainy days, and it was great that I could also have meals in Canal City.✨ The hotel itself is not brand new, but it is clean and satisfactory.
Grand Hyatt Fukuoka
Kumamoto
5
Late March Snowy Scenery in Aso after the Cold Wave!
The station and roadside station are nearby, making it convenient to go buy food even without meals provided. It's compact but has a clean feeling, and it's one of my favorite hotels. Since it was a long journey, I used the coin laundry to do some washing. There’s also a microwave and a space to drink coffee on the first floor, which I like.
Fairfield by Marriott Kumamoto Aso
Aichi
12
Affordable and Convenient Hotel
The location was convenient and close to the station. Although there were some signs of wear and tear, it was clean.
There was no humidifier or air purifier in the room, but they could be borrowed at the front desk.
The air conditioning was centrally controlled, and it was set to ventilation, making it cold in the morning and evening. It seemed that blankets could be borrowed from the front desk, but all were currently loaned out.
The walls were thin, and I was awakened several times by voices from the neighboring room at night.
There was no phone in the room; it seems they were only installed next to the elevators on each floor.
Hotel Wing International Nagoya
Tokyo
7
Even in a capsule room, you can sleep soundly! Unique layout!
I have stayed at various 9h hotels, but what I liked here is that, as shown in the picture, the entrance to the upper and lower capsule tiers is different. When entering the capsule, you don't have to worry about the person in the lower tier when climbing the ladder to the upper tier, so I thought this is a good design.
There was also a service to measure the quality of my sleep and send it to me via email later, and I appreciated that it came with a lavender scent sachet.
Nine Hours Akasaka Sleep Lab
Aichi
20
A Luxurious Stay at the Lounge: A Relaxing Retreat
"I wanted to take a little break from my daily routine and enjoy a relaxing holiday at a hotel" — this desire led me to the luxurious hotel "HOTEL ARCH RICHE" located near Toyohashi Station.
With its stylish and quiet space along with a spacious shared lounge, it was indeed a perfect spot for a "hokans" (hotel + vacation) getaway.
This report covers my 1-night 2-day stay in Toyohashi for a relaxing retreat!
Accessible from the station, once I passed through the entrance, a refined lobby and a calming lounge atmosphere welcomed me. After checking in, I immediately took a moment to relax in the lounge.
The bright and open space was perfect for both working on my PC and leisurely reading, allowing me to spend some quality time.
Hotel Arc Riche Toyohashi
Yamagata
11
Convenience at its Best! A Historic Hotel Close to the Station
I stayed on a trip to Yamagata.
It's only about a 10-minute walk from the station, making it very accessible.
There are also convenience stores nearby, so it’s not inconvenient at all.
Since it's a long-established hotel, I felt secure staying there.
The spaciousness from the entrance to the lobby is nice.
It's not facing the main street, so it's very quiet at night.
Also, this time, I was upgraded to a room with a massage chair.
I was very satisfied with the lovely hospitality and the comfortable room.
YAMAGATA KOKUSAI HOTEL
Kanagawa
21
A Slightly Extraordinary Stay Near Tokyo
"I wanted to experience something a bit extraordinary yet near Tokyo"—this desire led me to choose "Slash Kawasaki," which is within walking distance from JR Kawasaki Station. In this stylish environment with smart amenities, and a bedroom with a projector, I blended workcation with a touch of refreshment!
Check-in was smooth, and from the front desk, I could already sense the urban and highly designed atmosphere. The hotel had a sophisticated space, fusing "playfulness and comfort" that surpassed typical business hotels.
The guest room even features a large projector that displays from the ceiling! Enjoying luxurious night time experiences like a mini theater is one of its charms.
This is a perfect “nearby extraordinary” option for those wanting to escape the city without going far. I look forward to returning to Kawasaki for another day surrounded by movies, books, and coffee.
slash kawasaki
Hokkaido
13
ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SAPPORO | An Elegant Base to Explore Sapporo
(I didn’t expect that a year has passed; I’m grateful for the event hosted by UDS HOTELS and HafH that allowed me to document this wonderful memory.) The geographical location of YUEN SAPPORO is just "right." It’s near but not adjacent to the bustling Susukino area, separated by Odori Park, providing a wonderful city experience.
The facilities in the hotel include an excellent public bath. As the elevator doors open on our floor, we are greeted by elegant greenery along with relaxing fragrances, transitioning into a visual delight as we open the room door: bright window views, warm wooden tones, and thoughtfully designed lighting.
Our room type had a small living area; this is where we spent one evening after relishing a Conan-themed Sonoko burger (the angular shape mimicking her hairstyle wasn’t sharp enough!) yet craving dumplings, so we brought some dumplings from the nearby狸小路 to enjoy. It was also the perfect tabletop for setting up my charging area — just the right size.
On our last morning after a consecutive stay, we purchased breakfast, and that truly made our visit to YUEN SAPPORO a worthwhile and perfect conclusion.
ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SAPPORO（UDS HOTELS）
Taichung
7
Boutique Hotel in Taichung
The day I visited, there happened to be a Buddhist festival in Taichung, and the prices of nearby hotels skyrocketed to 2-3 times their normal rates!
Even in such circumstances, I was grateful to be able to book at my usual price with Hafh!
From the outside, the hotel made me think, 'Is it really okay?!' but once I entered, it was a wonderful boutique hotel. At the back of the front desk, there was free coffee and drink service, and four coin-operated laundry machines.
The room was a bit small but stylish and wonderful, and I loved the Panasonic washlet and rain shower!
The restaurant's breakfast also had high-quality food, which was good!
I highly recommend it right in front of the Taichung Train Station!
Cityinn Hotel Plus Taichung Station Branch
Dubai
7
My First Dubai
I was happy with the reliable Ibis!
Even though it's getting a bit old, the facilities are well maintained!
This time, I didn't have breakfast, so I want to have a meal next time.✨
There's a mini Carrefour next door! It's convenient.
ibis Mall Avenue Dubai
Kyoto
26
Cozy Feel and Delicious & Book-Filled Time in Kyoto
A few years ago, I thought, "I want to thoroughly explore delicious spots and places related to books in Kyoto," and thus chose "The Millennials Kyoto". With its reasonable pricing, futuristic smart pods, and cozy feel, along with its convenient location for town walking, it was a charming stay. During this visit, I truly enjoyed the encounters with Kyoto's cuisine and books, so let me reflect on those memories!
The Millennials Kyoto is conveniently located in the central area of Kawaramachi, with excellent access. The front desk is compact and stylish. Smooth check-in and smart bed operations with app connectivity are features of the futuristic design unique to The Millennials that I appreciated. It’s a simple yet calming space, perfect for those who want to enjoy "me time" while traveling.
The Millennials Kyoto
Kochi
24
A Base for My Multi-Point Life, Embraced by the Journey in Shikoku
Five years ago, just beginning my multi-point life, I visited Kochi as part of my Shikoku tour.
The place I stayed at was "EN HOSTEL," located in the city center.
At that time, I wasn’t as experienced in traveling as I am now, so having a reliable base to stay made a huge difference, and it remains one of the accommodations that I vividly remember.
In this article, I will introduce a day spent at EN HOSTEL while tracing back those memories.
EN HOSTEL is a guesthouse attractively located in the heart of Kochi City, yet it offers a calming atmosphere.
With a modern and natural interior, combined with the staff's attentive service, I felt perfectly at ease even in an unfamiliar place.
Stylish yet unpretentious, it had a comfortable ambiance that made me think, "I want to come back."
Perhaps it was having such a "welcoming base" that allowed me to continue my multi-point life while venturing into unfamiliar places.
It is a memorable spot I would love to casually revisit.
EN HOSTEL&BAR