Tokai Center Hotel

There was no cigarette smell in the room when I arrived, which may have been thanks to the hotel’s ozone deodorizing system. I’d booked a smoking room by mistake through Rakuten Travel in October for a December stay. When I called to ask about switching, they said they couldn’t because the date was still in the future and they had no reservation data. They did mention the ozone system, though. It’s a retro place that’s fine for an overnight stay. There’s no elevator, so getting to a fourth-floor room could be a bit of a climb. Toothbrushes, razors, and other amenities are picked up on the first floor. You can park a motorcycle on the premises if it doesn’t get in the cars’ way; if there isn’t room, there’s another lot a little farther away.

The rooms are roomy, which is handy if you’re staying several nights, and the price includes breakfast. Just don’t expect the kind of breakfast spread or facilities you’d get at the big business hotel chains. People who are used to those might be disappointed. The building and in-room bath and toilet are on the older side, but that’s manageable if you don’t mind it. The hotel is a good distance from the station. There’s a convenience store and pachinko parlor right across the street, with several restaurants a short walk away. It’s privately run and seems popular with people who enjoy the old-fashioned, friendly front desk style.

No elevator, so hauling suitcases up could be tough. Non-smokers may want to steer clear, too. The room itself was clean and quiet, with a soft bed. For a business hotel, the price is reasonable, especially with breakfast included, and it gets the job done.

The hotel’s free parking is spread around the area, but that makes it a bit of a hidden gem. It’s also well placed for Toyota Industries near Obu. On the way back, I found more convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, and home improvement stores than I would have near Obu Station. I slept really well thanks to the big bed. The bathroom, though, felt cramped for someone my size. For an older hotel, I was glad to find an outlet beside the pillow so I could use my phone comfortably at night.