Hotel Hakata Place

In person, the staff are very friendly, and it’s a modern hotel in a central location. But when I needed to change something, like my arrival date, it was very difficult. I was shocked by being told “last offer or you lose all money,” which isn’t how customer service is usually handled in Europe. In the end, the stay cost a lot more and didn’t even include breakfast. I can’t recommend staying here.

The desk staff were fantastic, and I couldn’t ask for more helpful people. Rooms are large and come with plenty of facilities, including a bath, separate toilet, and washing machine. There’s also a reasonably secure parking spot behind the building, away from the street. For cycle tourists arriving by ferry from the Gotos, it’s a good option if you can get a room at the right price with breakfast. The in-room washer has a dryer built in, but allow at least three hours to dry a big load. Skip the nearby onsen, though, it’s terrible.

This place was clean and so comfortable, with a kitchen better than most I’ve seen in Japan and fantastic staff. I wish I’d arranged more of my trip around staying here. No complaints from me, which is rare. I’d come back.

The price was reasonable, but the water was provided only on the first night, and the hotel is far from the station.