City Pension Zem

We spent 13 nights here, and it felt very homey. There was a washer and dryer in the unit, and they were considerate about our privacy. We checked out today but could still leave our luggage there and pick it up later. It was an amazing stay, and I highly recommend it!

The carpet and some of the furnishings looked dated, but the beds were comfortable and the linens clean. We also found the service and amenities exceptional. With two subway stations close by and a third within a ten-minute walk, getting around was convenient. For the price, it was a satisfactory stay.

I’d stay here again when I’m back in Tokyo. For me, the location is ideal: T-CAT (TCAT), the airport limousine bus stop for Haneda, is a short walk away, so you can get to and from the airport without hauling luggage through train stations. Suitengumae and Ningyōchō Station are about five minutes away, and Hamacho Station is around ten. Near Hamacho you can look over the Sumida river, and there’s a sports complex and park as well as some nice little sweets shops. The river is close enough for a stroll, and Tokyo Station and Akihabara are about 30-40 minutes on foot if you’d rather skip the subway. You can find pretty much anything you need within a 30-minute walk. The immediate neighborhood is quiet at night, though a school across the way means you’ll hear people in the morning. There are good food options and shops a short walk north, plus a Ginza Karen luggage shop nearby. A small My Basket is right outside on the front street; a bigger 24 Hour store (Peacock), a drug store and convenience stores are also within a short walk. The building, its furniture and the bathroom are old, with the bathroom especially small, but everything was clean. The place has an 80s/90s feel that won’t suit everyone, especially if you prefer newer rooms and decor. My room was spacious compared with other business hotels, with enough space for two large carry-on suitcases and room to move. The sheets were clean and the bed VERY comfortable, though quite firm, so it may not suit you if you don’t like firm beds. Fresh towels were left at my door daily, and there’s a washing machine and an old little mini fridge. The staff were very friendly, helpful and polite, and spoke English. The location, quiet nights and comfortable bed made this a place I’d gladly use again.

The host was lovely and relaxed, and even waited for us when clearing customs at Narita airport took nearly two hours. They offer complimentary tea, juice and coffee at reception from 7 a.m. until some later time, though I can’t remember exactly when it ends. The location is great and easy to reach. The building and interior are a bit old and have that smell older buildings get. It’s non-smoking now, but the old smoke smell is still there.