Kumamoto Hotel Castle

There's a lot of charm here, with a feel that modern hotels often lack. Our western/Japanese room had lovely 60s decor mixed with traditional Japanese touches and great views of Kumamoto Castle. You get an old-school key instead of a swipe card. Though someone mentioned there were few places to charge, we found two outlets beside the bed, and the TV took our Chromecast and streamed without trouble. It's close to everything we needed, and I'd stay here again if I'm in Kumamoto.

I liked being just off the main thoroughfare, with food and services a short walk away. Skip the overpriced Food Village and try the restaurants around the shopping arcade instead, they were a hidden gem. Our room faced the castle and had plenty of space, including the floor area and the toilet. The toilet stayed dry thanks to the drain beside the tub. My two issues were figuring out where to park because the signs were lacking, and Wi-Fi that kept dropping. TV choices were very basic.

The hotel dates from the 1960s and has served several times as a residence for the Imperial family. I found the high-floor Deluxe rooms spacious and comfortable for a very affordable price. They include both a bath and shower, along with the other amenities, and the interior decor is pleasing. The views of Kumamoto castle under reconstruction are great.

You can tell as soon as you walk in that this is a super luxurious hotel. The staff are well trained and ready to help. In winter, though, the rooms have no air conditioning, so they get stuffy. The only way to cool and ventilate the room is through a tiny window.