The Knot Hiroshima Hotel

The hotel’s setting and location were lovely, but we had an uncomfortable experience at reception. It was raining when our group of six arrived, so we asked to borrow umbrellas. We were given only three, with the explanation that there weren’t enough. A little later, a group of four came in and each person got one. That felt confusing and unfair. We understand supplies can be limited, but the hotel could handle this more consistently or explain its policy clearly. We hope service improves so guests feel equally welcome.

I left disappointed with the accommodation and felt the quality didn’t justify the price. Of the five hotels I stayed at in Japan on this trip, The Knot Hiroshima was among the most expensive and one of the least impressive. The building was generally clean and close to local attractions, but that wasn’t enough to make it good value. My room looked straight at the wall of another building, with no view. It was also stuffy: the AC wouldn’t go below 22C, though I think it should be possible to set it to 19-20C. The pillows offered little support, and the bathroom linens were worn and due for a refresh. Wi-Fi was slow and had a terrible signal. Reception said they would clean only the bathroom, not the whole room. At this price, I’d expect daily full-room cleaning or the option to request it without the 3300 yen fee. Check-in was at 3pm, and they made no effort to accommodate an early arrival. I know early check-in isn’t guaranteed, but it’s more common in most hotels now. Breakfast added a significant amount to the room rate, and buying it at the attached restaurant cost over 2500yen per person. Dinner there also came with a 500 yen table fee, even when we were seated at the bar.

The location is handy for all the attractions, and the Hiroshima memorial and museum are an easy walk away. Shops, fast food, and restaurants are close too, with a 7 Eleven directly across the road. We had a clean, nicely decorated room, an easy check-in, and good service. At check-in, each guest gets around six gold coins to spend during evening happy hour on the 14th floor. They cover drinks, nuts, sweets, and similar snacks, with enough for each person to have a snack and an alcoholic drink and still get change. A fun idea. I highly recommend the Knot Hiroshima.

Everything is within walking distance, and the location is perfect, right across from the memorial. There’s also a little shrine tucked across the street. The room felt dated and musty, and sleeping was miserable because the AC can’t be set below 22°C. As a cool-blooded Canadian, I found it far too warm. If you like a hot room, you may be fine, but if you prefer cool nights, you’ll suffer.