HOTEL R9 The Yard MOKA KUMAKURA

Comfortable and nice.

The inside was much roomier than you’d expect from looking at the outside, and one light meal was included. It felt like an ordinary hotel, with a TV, microwave, refrigerator, shower, and toilet. There’s a smoking area by the front desk, though it was a little hard to spot. This was my first container hotel stay. The chain seems to have many locations around the country, and I’d like to stay again when I travel.

I was looking for somewhere to stay after an event, and booked this place because the container rooms were unusual and the rate was under 8,000 yen. The sign says check-in is through an unmanned machine, but there was actually an attendant at the counter to help. After checking in, I picked one frozen meal from the coupon, which can be used once before checkout, and took it with the amenities beside the machine. For a container room, it was surprisingly roomy and comfortable for one person. The bathroom and toilet are a little small but acceptable, and the bed was spacious enough for a good sleep. Maybe the container is well sealed, because with 37°C heat outside, the air conditioning was set to a chilly 26°C. At checkout, you just drop your card key into the post box by the reception entrance. They seem to have locations across the country, so I’ll use them again.