Hotel Livemax Tokyo Ayase Ekimae

The location was the highlight for me. It’s a three-minute walk to ayase station, with Ueno and Akasusa also fairly close by train. The staff were very friendly, and it was easy to talk with them even though I don’t speak Japanese. We had a really positive trip, thanks in part to staying here.

The building looks dated and the rooms aren’t great, but the price was excellent, under $40 a night. There’s a 7-eleven a couple of streets away, and I especially liked being able to set the AC for either heating or cooling, which APA seems to avoid. I’d stay again, though I’m not sure the current 3.6 star score is deserved.

The hotel feels old, and cleanliness was just okay. Staff were nonchalant and strict about check-in time. Ayase station is nearby, though the station itself is a long way from the city centre. Given the room rates, I can accept that.

This place has more of a weekly apartment feel than a regular hotel, which may suit you or may not. I found the prices very reasonable for the room features, safety, and convenience, and the service was fairly good overall. It’s easy to see why budget-conscious travelers from overseas stay here. The rooms themselves are decent, even though cleanliness is a weak spot. Like other reviewers, I noticed dustiness around the hotel, and the housekeeping felt amateurish, apparently relying mostly on part-time foreign staff instead of professional cleaners. My Agoda booking was for a semi-double, and I was worried right up to check-in about whether I’d actually get the bed described. Fortunately, it was a proper semi-double and there was no issue. Having a microwave in every room was especially handy for heating food and making simple meals during a longer stay. There was one late-night fire alarm after something overheated, though. Washers and dryers are near reception on the second floor and were useful, with reasonable prices. There are also free umbrellas to borrow, and the elevator requires a key card. One thing that needs attention: the washer-dryer duct should be cleaned with a drill-type brush to clear dust and lower the fire risk.