Grand Inn Hakata

There was plenty of space by Japanese standards, and the AC worked well. The room was adequate, and the kitchenette was usable, but the beds weren’t comfortable. The kitchenette and toilet weren’t clean when we arrived. It’s a 15-minute walk from Hakata Station.

Self-check-in was straightforward, and the location is convenient, about a 15-minute walk from Hakata station. We made a couple of simple meals in the kitchen. The washing machine worked fine, and detergent and a drying rack were provided.

I’d give this zero stars if I could. I rarely write reviews, but this was the worst lodging experience I’ve had in Japan, and I want others to know. The photos are misleading: the room was dirty, rundown, and smelled of old cigarettes. The shower room vent was disgusting, the kitchen was very dirty, and even the tops of the trash bins were filthy. The furniture was ancient and unsupportive, with hard springs and a sunken feeling when I sat down. The mattress had the same problem. The pre-check-in process took far too long, and there was no staff member on site to help. If you’re not comfortable with technology, don’t stay here. I wouldn’t waste my money on it.

The room is spacious and has a kitchen with the utilities included. It was also handy to have a washing machine in the room at no extra charge. But the traffic outside is extremely loud. It felt like trying to sleep beside a train station, so bring earplugs.