Toyo Hotel

The room details were confusing, so check carefully before booking for a family. We chose a room described as having a small double bed, but it was too small for two adults and a child. The room was dirty and dusty, including the headboard and the ventilation. There was no air conditioning, only a heater that blew hot air. Staff suggested opening the window, which didn't feel safe with children, even in winter. I was really disappointed. For a stay like this, I'd choose an apartment next time, with its kitchen and more space.

The breakfast and the self-serve amenities were the best parts of my stay. The first-floor restaurant served great food, and guests could take things like green tea and pouch coffee. The breakfast was decent too. There are also laundry and drying machines, and the location is convenient, a reasonable walk from the train station. Rooms were just mediocre, though, with no microwave, and the thin walls let in noise from people talking in the hallway. Renovation work was going on during my stay, so there was a lot of noise from that as well. I stayed at 13 hotels on my long trip around Japan, and this one didn't leave me with a great impression. Front desk staff seemed cold when I greeted them at check-in. Some wore masks, appeared shy, and avoided eye contact while we spoke. They understood some English, but the service felt below par. My room was okay, and the hotel offered breakfast, which I appreciated. They charge an accommodation tax. I think travelers who don't need room cleaning should get some kind of tax benefit or discount, as at many other hotels. The rooms are cleaned only after four nights, as I understand it. Also, I had to pay for accommodation tax while the room itself was mediocre. I'd suggest booking at least 45 days ahead and looking for a hotel with a higher rating, which might be more comfortable. The restaurant and breakfast helped bring my rating up to three stars. Without them, the front desk service, unwelcoming attitude, and noise would have left me at two.

For the price and location, this was a good choice. Hakata Station is just a minute or two away on foot, with a Family Mart and pharmacy nearby. The rooms felt cramped and small, but I would stay here again.

I couldn't get to sleep until 1 a.m. because people were talking loudly in the hall and using a very noisy vending machine. I'd asked for a room away from the elevator, but they put me directly opposite it. They could at least have told me at check-in that no such room was available. It felt like they ignored my request. I won't come back.