Dormy Inn Kumamoto Natural Hot Spring Hotel

The room door and curtains had quite a bit of dust, which made things a little uncomfortable. Still, it was good value, with a convenient location and a nice breakfast. They also provide free late-night ramen, a public hot spring, and free laundry, so it was a nice stay overall.

The spa was pleasant, with a small outdoor soaking pool that did a decent job of giving the impression of a large outdoor onsen. My main gripe is the same as at every other Japanese business hotel I've stayed in: there aren't enough pillows. The rooms were typical Japanese size, so small, but clean and well serviced. Breakfast was excellent and worth the extra cost. It's a 10-minute walk to the castle, 5 minutes from a tram stop, and close to lots of restaurants. I'd stay again.

The massage I had on 13F was expensive, but VERY VERY GOOD. The young woman seemed to sense right away that my back muscles were tight, and used pressure points to ease the pain. I'd recommend it if you've been travelling or sitting in a vehicle for a long time. Dormy Inn is hard to beat for location, right next to the bus terminus and Sakura Machi mall. The rooms are Japan-sized, but clean and fresh, and the tasty buffet breakfast had a good variety. In the female onsen there are shower stalls, two indoor pools, one hot and one cold, plus an outdoor pool.

From check-in through checkout, everything went smoothly thanks to the courteous, helpful, and professional staff. The room was cozy, and the clean, relaxing onsen was a highlight after a day out. The complimentary late-night ramen, ice cream, and yogurt drinks were a warm, thoughtful touch too.