Centurion Hotel Ueno

There's a distinctive balcony, which is a plus if your neighbor is out on theirs too. Convenience stores and a supermarket are close by. But the place is dated and small, and the walls are so thin you can hear people in the next room mumbling. The area has lots of nightclubs and karaoke, so late at night or very early on a run you'll encounter plenty of drunk people if that's what you're out for. There's nowhere to sit and eat, and takeout isn't allowed in the lobby either.

The staff were friendly and helpful, but the room was tiny and narrow, around 15 by 6 feet, with nowhere to put our suitcases. We booked a triple room with bunk beds. The bunks were fine, but the third bed was just a small couch with its back cushions removed. The room didn't look like any of the website photos. The hallway carpets were dirty and needed vacuuming.

The room was amazing, and the outdoor bath alone was worth staying for. The bath was life-changing. But when I arrived, I was charged extra, and it took asking a couple of times to find out it was because I hadn't listed my friend on the booking. I had booked a room for eight people, and the booking only asked for a headcount, not everyone's names. When I pointed that out, the staff member said, "do you want the room or not?" I gave in and paid. The price went from $230 for the night to $290. I heard other guests checking in without the same issue with their concierge, so I'm not sure whether mine did it because I was a foreign tourist. At that price it almost isn't worth it, though the room is so good. I'd suggest calling or messaging beforehand to check whether anything is missing, so you don't get charged extra on arrival.

The Annex was a quieter, more secure place to stay, with access limited to guest key cards. Check-in happens in the lively main building. I was surprised with an upgrade to a Superior King Room in the Annex, which opened in 2017. The 14 sqm room felt spacious, with a huge 180cm-wide Slumberland bed, bright Japanese-modern decor, adjustable lighting, and a useful workspace. The unit bath was spotless, the water pressure was strong, and the POLA amenities were good quality. The Annex also has a microwave, ice machine, and coin laundry, handy for longer stays. Breakfast isn't currently served. For getting around, the hotel is just a three-minute walk from the North Gate of JR Okachimachi Station. Ameyoko market is right nearby, and Ueno Park and Yushima Tenjin Shrine are within walking distance. Monster Grill Ueno is around the corner for steak, and I recommend Mijinco nearby for a good breakfast sandwich. A very convenient base for Tokyo. I also have a 4K review on YouTube if you'd like to see the room and its size. Search: SUKIYAKI TRAVEL JAPAN.