Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko

The setting is rustic and peaceful, with a wonderful view. There's a little market that sells great pickles. The hotel is about a mile up the hill from town and close to one of the bus lines; the walk isn't too daunting if you're in reasonable shape. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, especially after our Tokyo hotel room, and the staff were very friendly and accommodating. It reminded me of Fairfield hotels in the States, except it seemed cleaner and better run. It doesn't feel like a budget hotel at all. If I come back to Nikko, I'd probably stay here again.

A solid basic hotel, with small rooms that make good use of the space. There's no proper food on site, just a few microwaveable things in the small shop, so pick up food elsewhere or reserve a nearby restaurant. The complimentary coffee is a nice touch. It's a manageable walk to Nikko Station and the main area. There's also a huge parking lot, which is handy if you're driving.

The place is very clean and high quality, and the staff speak English. There are interesting forest walks nearby, and it's close to several sightseeing spots, including Tokugawa temple, a major draw. It's a little way out from Nikko town, and there are no baths in the rooms. I wish there were an onsen or public bath to make up for that. There's no restaurant either, so you need to buy food in town to cook or microwave in the shared kitchen. Those gaps kept me from rating it more highly, though I still think it's worth a stay.

The location is excellent, close to the popular and noteworthy Nikko Toshogu Shrine. If you're driving, consider dropping your luggage at the entrance before parking, since there are quite a few steps up to the hotel lobby. For a stay of several nights, they changed the towels, cleared rubbish, and made the beds. They didn't replace used cups or clean the bathroom or floors.