Okayama Universal Hotel Annex

The hotel is old but well equipped, and the location makes getting onto transportation easy. Breakfast and dinner are free, and the staff are friendly.

This was the worst hotel I've stayed in. The room was dirty and musty, and there was no Wi-Fi, big bathroom, free dinner, or free breakfast. Most of what the website says is wrong.

The staff were excellent, and the lobby and other public areas were pleasant. Breakfast and dinner were included each night in the basement, partly buffet and partly made to order. The second basement also has a decent sized public bath and coin laundry. I liked those parts, but I wouldn't book again because the room was uncomfortable and getting around the building was such a hassle. Walking from the station with luggage takes 20-25 minutes, though there's a bus or tram stop nearby. On arrival you have stairs down, then up to the lifts, which is awkward with bags. You also have to leave your key at reception whenever you go out, and when I returned during check-in time each day, I sometimes had to queue to get it back. Two lifts serve 17 floors, and at peak times they're usually busy, with long waits, especially if someone has bags or staff are moving rubbish or bedding. My room was tiny, just a bed, fridge, and small stool, with no space for anything else. The bathroom was actually spacious and well equipped. The bed, though, was terribly uncomfortable. Maybe it's personal preference, but I slept badly all three nights.

The staff were very friendly, and the price is excellent for a stay that includes both dinner and breakfast. You have to pick up meal vouchers at the counter. The menu is mostly the same, but it's a good deal for budget travelers. The room size was decent, with a small bathroom, and there are lots of useful amenities: a microwave, washing machine, dryer, and beverage dispenser. I used the large public bath on B1 every day, including its infrared oven, and found it super comfortable. It's about a 25-minute walk from Okayama Station, but the tram stop, Daiyunji Station, is right outside the station, making the trip convenient. I'd highly recommend staying here when visiting Okayama.