Chizu - Vacation STAY 83880v

The room’s electronic lock suddenly stopped working, which delayed my morning departure. I called, but was told to leave it as it was and that they would lock it. I ended up leaving my luggage in the room and going without locking the door. The thought of a non-professional caretaker entering my room without permission was frankly terrifying. I also got three silent calls from the accommodation. They hung up without saying anything, and when I called back, all I got was, “I locked the door.” The check-in rules were far too strict. I booked for 6 PM, and when I wasn’t there exactly on time, they called over and over. I explained I’d be a little late, but they insisted, “You booked for 6 PM, so...” It’s understandable that plans change or accidents happen, and I wish they’d been more flexible, even late at night. I arrived at 6:36 PM and was rushed considerably. My room was on the fourth floor, with stairs only, which was tough with a suitcase. There was just one usable outlet near the floor in the semi-suite, and no bathroom on the fourth floor. Having to go to the shower room to wash my face or brush my teeth in the morning was extremely inconvenient, and difficult for women trying to put on makeup. As accommodation, it lacks even basic services and facilities. It’s best thought of as something like an internet cafe with a caretaker. Locals say it used to be a coffee shop and was renovated, so the shoddy feel is understandable.

The location could be a drawback. It’s away from the main tourist spots, and while Konpira Shrine is about 40 minutes away, there aren’t many restaurants close by. The nearest place is highly recommended, though the road in front of the inn is so narrow that driving around can be difficult. If you can manage that, I think it’s a really good place. I’m someone who stays up late, so being able to come and go 24 hours and check out at any time suits me well. From what I could tell, there didn’t seem to be a bath, but there was a bath and shower room like you’d find in a business hotel. And if you’re fine with a Japanese-style room, then...

I’d brought instant noodles for dinner, but there was no kettle in my private room, even though the hotel website said there should be one. I ended up having only snacks and beer that evening.

The station is very close, which is great for access, though the train noise startled me a few times. At check-in, the owner and I didn’t speak the same language, but we were still able to communicate. They were kind.