Saijo-Urban-Hotel

This was my second stay, and the rates are great. It’s a small hotel across from the station, with friendly staff and an easy check-in. The standard semi-double non-smoking room was small this time, and I prefer the side facing the parking area. Coffee is free in the lobby. Breakfast was available, but I was in a hurry and grabbed something from the convenience store next door. There’s a large communal bath, though I skipped it. Parking is easy in the hotel lot, three minutes down the street around the corner, and costs just ¥300. The only drawback is there’s nowhere to load or unload the car. I cheated and unloaded quickly in the convenience store lot. We’ll be back for Obon.

We had a fine stay, and the staff were welcoming and friendly. They also kept our luggage after checkout. Iyo-Saijo station is right across from Saijo Urban Hotel. The interior feels like it could be 50 years old and is due for renovation. Insulation wasn’t great, and our room beside the elevator got pretty noisy.

The air conditioning gave me a sore throat. It eased during the day, then came back the next morning after I slept with it on. Using the air purifier on the third night helped, but it was loud enough to bother someone who needs silence. The soundproofing was otherwise reasonably good, though we could hear the elevator from our room beside it. We still slept well, but ask for a room away from the lift shaft if you need complete quiet. It’s a good budget base for exploring this part of Shikoku.

It’s right across from the train station and beside a convenience store, so getting around and picking up small necessities is easy. Soap, shampoo, and razors are readily available, and there’s a small coin laundry in the building plus another a short distance away. The rooms are clean and well kept. There’s a small fridge for quick snacks, and you can choose between the common bath and a private bath in the suite. Breakfast is reasonably priced with plenty of Japanese and continental options.