Jr West Group Via Inn Prime Akasaka

We stayed for a week and loved it. This was our first hotel of the trip, and I'm glad we chose it. The rooms were a good size, stayed clean, and fit our two large suitcases and two small carry-ons without any trouble. The facilities were easy to find and use, including the laundry. Having a 7/11 on the ground floor open around the clock was very convenient. The hotel is close to two train stations, Hie shrine, and lots of local restaurants. Every staff member was wonderful and friendly, answering all our questions. Even the cleaning staff greeted us warmly when we ran into them during the day. Thanks so much to everyone for looking after us!

For a week’s stay, having our towels changed only once and not getting fresh sheets at all was really disappointing. We were told there was a linen shortage, but we paid to have these things changed so we could stay in a clean room, and there was no compensation for being left with dirty linen. The room was uncomfortably small, even for Japan. The free amenities were a nice extra, though they create a lot of plastic waste, and the fridge and kettle were good. The location was somewhat convenient, but if you’re not planning to eat in Akasaka, I’d stay elsewhere since you’ll need to take trains everywhere.

The location made it easy to get around, and the clean, comfortable room had what we needed for a short visit. It was a solid place to sleep and rest after a long day, and the price fit the purpose. Nothing about the stay felt especially memorable, though. Just okay overall.

The pillows were a nightmare. I ended up stuffing clothes into a pillowcase because the ones provided were so uncomfortable. I’ve never had anything worse to put my head on, and the hotel owner really needs to invest in decent pillows. The bathroom was okay, nothing special, though I think the public onsen may be why. It was pretty good overall. There’s lots of room space by Tokyo standards, with a comfortable bed and a desk, and the staff were friendly and spoke some English, so check-in and check-out were easy. The location is great, close to several stations that can take you around Tokyo, with plenty of food nearby and a 7/11 on the ground floor. Daily room service with fresh bedding and towels is available if you choose it.