Shimanami PRIME HOTEL IMABARI

For a stopover, this hotel was convenient enough, and parking was easy to find. We used a nearby lot that cost a fraction of the hotel’s paid parking, just a two-minute walk away, and could still enter through the back. We left around 10 or 11 in the morning, when the city felt very quiet and empty. We didn’t stay long enough to judge the location more broadly. The breakfast buffet had plenty to choose from, including pork rice and other local specialties that I was keen to try after seeing them on the website. There was fresh fruit, including local mandarins. We were the only ones eating when we arrived, though another couple came later. Our double room had one enormous bed, bigger than beds we’ve had in other hotels, and a bathroom with a separate bathing area. Toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and disposable slippers were provided. There were USB sockets beside the bed, but no bottled drinking water. Pyjamas were available by the ground-floor lifts; I think there were cotton buds and combs too, though I can’t remember. Reception also lends hair straighteners and curling irons. The lobby machine offered complimentary welcome drinks until around 10 pm, I think, including one self-serve beer per person. There’s also a public bath and sauna on the ground floor, as far as I remember, but I didn’t use them. Since the hotel had only opened fairly recently, I was surprised to notice quite a lot of dust inside the bedside light buttons. That was my only complaint.

The bathing area on the ninth floor was the best part for me: a hot bath, cold plunge, sauna, and a pleasant changing room with toiletries, plus a great view. The room was comfortable and clean, and the staff were warm. It’s a short walk from the station and close to good food and shops. There’s bike parking in the lobby too. I’d happily recommend it.

There’s a huge selection of great restaurants right across the street, and the hotel itself was clean and comfortable with a wonderful breakfast. Cyclists can store bikes on racks right in the main lobby. Highly recommended.

The ferry port is an easy walk away, and cyclists can park their bikes in the lobby. The bath and sauna on the ninth floor were impressive, the breakfast was excellent with local food, and the equipment felt luxurious. I’d absolutely recommend this place to cyclists and other guests alike.