Aizu Tsuruya Hotel

The rooms were ordinary, but the service was awful. Staff held one person in our group there and wouldn't let them leave, insisting we hand over our rental car keys without explaining why. It was unreasonable and illegal to stop guests from leaving. There are much better hotels right next door. I wouldn't stay here.

The room was roomy and clean, and breakfast came with the stay. It was a basic, typical Japanese breakfast. This is an average hotel in central Aizuwakamatsu, and I'd come back for the location.

This time I had a western-style single room, with enough space for me and my bags. The bed was comfortable, and there was a fridge, kettle, TV, shower, and AC/heating unit. It's an older place, but it's kept up and has the basics covered. I liked relaxing in the common area. There was lots of seating, manga, local guides, and a massage chair, plus free hot tea and coffee from the machine. Japanese breakfast costs extra. Coin laundry and communal baths are on some floors, and parking is free, though the lot is small. The price is reasonable, the staff are lovely, and the location works well. I've stayed here before and would recommend it.

For what it costs, it was fine, and I slept better than I have in pricier places. I hadn't noticed I'd booked a smoking room, but they switched me to a non-smoking one after I paid the difference.