Hotel Tokiwa Ekiminami

The retro space is being updated bit by bit, and there’s a supermarket within walking distance. The shopping street has its shutters down, and apartment construction has left the hotel feeling deserted. I’d shop on the way in, before checking in. If the timing and surroundings suit you, this could be a hidden gem. It’s easy to find from the east exit of Shimizu Station. There’s only one elevator, so the stairs may be more convenient if you can manage them. Breakfast is available if the timing works for you. A few room tips: the refrigerator only cools after you open the door and switch it on, otherwise just the light comes on. Consider bringing a hair dryer if you’re particular about one, and a humidifier or air purifier if you can bring them by car. There were plenty of outlets, so no extension cord was needed. If the weather allows, opening the windows early lets in a pleasant breeze. Freight trains pass the railroad crossing at night. They’re not as loud as they seem from a distance and probably won’t wake you, but I recall them running until around 3am-4am. If you’re worried about the noise, earplugs are a must, and it’s best to go to bed early.

I’d suggest picking up groceries near Shimizu Station before heading over. There are lots of convenience stores, fast food places like McDonald’s and Yoshinoya, and izakayas outside the station, which I found very handy on my first visit there. The hotel provides a toothbrush, pajamas, bath and face towels, and leather slippers, with disposable slippers available at reception. It’s close to the station and the area is well lit at night, but the hotel is tucked into a residential neighborhood and could be hard to find after dark without a navigation app on your phone.

The room was old but clean, just like a standard business hotel. At 5,000 yen, it’s a bargain. From Shimizu Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk through the shopping district. There’s a convenience store outside Shin-Shimizu Station, though the neighborhood gets pitch black at night. Breakfast comes in three options, priced at either 380 yen or 480 yen.

Even at the end of the year, I found a very reasonable rate that included breakfast. The room was clean and comfortable, and breakfast was delicious. It was a nice way to start the morning.