Hotel Sardonyx Tokyo

The staff were well trained, very friendly, and attentive to what we needed. They even arranged to send our luggage to Kyoto via Yamato. If we return to Tokyo, we'd definitely come back here. We stayed in a Superior Triple Room on the ninth floor, which was spacious by Japanese standards and very quiet. It was clean, although the bathroom was a little small but still acceptable. The buffet breakfast is served at the "Royal Host" inside the hotel, using the vouchers they provide. The selection was a bit limited compared with European standards, but the food was good quality. The hotel is convenient for exploring, with Hatchobori Station on the Hibiya Line and Keiyo Line just steps away, and JR Tokyo Station a short 15-minute walk.

The included breakfast was very good, and the room was on the larger side for Japan. I also liked how many little travel items they provide, like toothbrushes, creams, and combs. The bed was comfortable, though the pillows were too soft for my taste and made it a little hard to sleep. Even so, I'd definitely stay again.

The staff and location were great, with no complaints there. I'd rate it 3.5 if half stars were possible, rather than 3. There were a couple of cleanliness problems in the room. The small curtain at the base of the bed looked really gross, and the first towel I used had a hair on it. I thought all the rooms were non-smoking, but on my last full day the room suddenly started smelling of smoke. I have no idea where it came from, perhaps somehow through the AC, even though the smoking floor was three floors below. I didn't complain since it was my final night and hoped it would pass, but the smell lasted until I checked out the next morning. My nose is very sensitive, so that may have played a part, but it hit me hard when I walked into the room. It hadn't happened during my first four nights, which was unfortunate.

There are private bars, izakayas, and cafes nearby, as well as a restaurant right below and a few Family Mart and Lawson stores. Hatchobori is a quiet place, though it's still a busy area and very close to the city centre. The service is great, with lots of complimentary items. It's also close to a train station, which matters. I'd totally recommend staying here.