Vessel Inn Fukuyama Station

The beds were comfortable and the room was exceptionally clean. It's near Fukuyama castle, and the nighttime view of it is lovely.

The castle view is the reason to book a room here. Even though the window isn't large, the castle buildings line up perfectly, with the walls, gardens, and buildings all visible without anything in the way. The sight changes with the light, from sunset behind the castle to the blue morning sky, and it's so calming I could come to Fukuyama just for this stay. I've tried three other hotels in town, and none of them compare. They sit across the station, so the station blocks the castle. Here, you're also extremely close to the station and trains. I wouldn't bother going downstairs for breakfast when I could eat in the room and keep enjoying that view.

The staff were friendly and capable, and the room was neat and clean with a stunning view from the bedroom window. Breakfast was good, though the bacon was far too underdone, like it is in most places in Japan. The hot chocolate was a delicious touch.

For the price, getting a room with both a double and a single bed was great. The room was a decent size, and I was lucky to have a view of the castle. The historic castle is close by, and the station is right next door. There are restaurants, a 7 eleven, and other shops on the ground floor.