Hotel Monterey Himeji

The reception staff made a real difference. They were helpful, carried our luggage and patiently answered our questions. The hotel's location is great, and breakfast was delicious. Our room was spacious, with comfortable beds. The bathroom had towels, toothbrushes, razors, hairbrushes, cotton sets, liquid soap, shampoo and conditioner. Coffee, tea, sugar and creamer were available as complimentary drinks.

The staff were so helpful when our rental car wouldn't start on checkout morning. We were running late for an art class nearby, and when I asked reception for a landline to call and reschedule, one of the staff offered to make the call herself and speak Japanese with the art teacher. Really kind of her, and much appreciated. We stayed two nights in April. The room was clean and spacious, with a little table for tea. Himeji Castle is within walking distance, and you can see it from the windows at breakfast on level 14. The lobby gave me Disney hotel vibes. Thanks for the warm hospitality!

The layout of the hot bath was odd, with people sitting in the pool facing those washing themselves. Tattoos aren't allowed, and talking in the hot baths or sauna isn't permitted either. We would have preferred a yukata for going to the public bath on the fourth floor, as we didn't use the pyjamas. We slept comfortably and liked being close to the Shinkansen and the bus to the castle. It was handy having mugs and some tea and coffee in the room.

Good value, with the station just nearby and a large department store right below the hotel. Himeji Castle is about a 10-15 minute walk away, and there are plenty of places to eat near the station. I'd recommend it.