Kiku'S Room

The renovated apartment had two large double beds, with a stylish, clean interior despite the slightly old-looking exterior. It felt very much like home, with a kitchen, washer and detergent, fabric softener, drying rack, vacuum, and even sandals and a chair for the balcony. Towels and hotel-style amenities were all there, including extra bath and face towels for my multiple nights, plus bathrobes. Shampoo, conditioner, body and hand soap, and dish soap were supplied too. I did find half a Papico left in the freezer by the previous guest. There was a faint old-fashioned smell when I arrived, but opening the window and running the air conditioner cleared it. The check-in is usually done by entering the QR code and password sent beforehand into a tablet on the second floor, without meeting anyone. Since I asked to arrive an hour early, I paid an extra 2000 yen and contacted a staff member in advance, who handled the check-in for me. I was given a key code to get into the room. I stayed two nights over the October three-day weekend for the World Expo. Osaka Port Station is very close, handy for Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. I’d like to stay here again when I’m sightseeing in Osaka. Thanks for the hospitality.

Once I finally got checked in, I was satisfied with the spacious room and great location. Getting there was stressful, though. I’d booked through Agoda and tried to contact the property ahead of my late arrival, but nobody called back on the mobile number listed there. A number on another booking site connected me to the management company, who said the check-in details would come by email. That email never arrived. At the property, a sign said I needed a PIN, so I called the number printed on it. It took a while to reach someone, and in the middle of the night I worried I wouldn’t get in. The call was hard to hear because the signal was poor. You need three PIN codes in total, so keep the call going until you have your room key.

I canceled more than a week ahead and still got charged the full cancellation fee. I regret booking here. I should’ve just stayed at a regular business hotel. Such a disappointment.