HOTEL R9 The Yard Nagahama

The room is about the size of a business hotel room, with a double bed, and it was far enough from the neighboring container that noise wasn’t an issue. Parking is roomy and easy, and the front desk staff are polite. There’s also a coin laundry and a vending machine with soft drinks only. Getting in and out means climbing a few steps, which could be hard with heavy or large luggage or for anyone with mobility issues. And then there’s the toilet bowl size. Men will know what I mean 😅

The check-in instructions were detailed and helpful, and there were welcome drinks and snacks. The snacks were frozen bento boxes with several options to choose from. The room was reasonably spacious, and the heating worked well. I’d wondered whether a container house would be insulated properly, but I didn’t feel cold at all. I’d definitely stay here again!

The station is a little far away, but staying in a container hotel meant I could relax without worrying about people in the next room. I stayed overnight after drinking too late at the end-of-year party. For breakfast, you can take frozen food and heat it in the room microwave. I can’t speak to the taste, but it’s great being able to eat at your own pace.

This is part of a nationwide container hotel chain. My first check-in at this kind of hotel wasn’t very smooth and took over 15 minutes. The touch panel on the control panel is extremely unresponsive, so be careful if you’re impatient!