Hotel Hikari

The hotel was clean, the service was good, and they lend out umbrellas for free when it rains. My only complaint is the 1:00 am curfew: they close then, and you can’t get back in until 6 am.

Nice place.

For my solo Tokyo bar trip in February 2026, I needed somewhere new to stay after not being able to rest with my group. I’ve used budget lodgings in Minamisenju plenty of times, and found Hikari on a booking site this time. From the station, pass Tearbashi intersection and it’s just to the left, a fairly short walk. The ¥4,300 rate seemed a bit high for the nearby flophouse district, though towels for your face and bath were included, so it came to about ¥4,000 in practice. The building and rooms were clean, and the lobby had lots of manga. The clean shared toilet even had a shower, and the big tub let me stretch my legs. The washing area was roomy enough for six or seven people. The staff were friendly too. I never bumped into anyone despite the shared bathroom and toilet. It was quiet at night and in the morning, and guests were considerate. I had a morning bath, then slept soundly on the fluffy futon until morning, feeling like the previous night’s alcohol had worn off. Thanks for looking after me. I’d stay again.

For the price, I found it adequate. My tatami room was about three mats in size, with just a sleeping space, desk, TV and refrigerator. The amenities were self-serve by the entrance, and the helpful front desk staff were available despite a 1:00 AM curfew. Wi-Fi worked. Payment was cash only, with no cards accepted. The non-smoking room had a distinctive smell, though I got used to it after opening the window and waiting a while. The elevator smelled strongly of cigarettes. The shared bath was comfortable and mixed gender, with set bathing hours; outside those hours, using the shower cost extra. Most of the guests seemed to be older Japanese people, and everyone was quiet.