Residential Hotel B:CONTE Asakusa

The staff were friendly and spoke English, and we’d definitely come back. During our two-week Japan trip, this was one of the best hotels we stayed in. It was only minutes from Senso-ji Temple, within walking distance of two subway lines, and right beside a huge Don Quijote, with lots of restaurants to choose from. Our room was large by Japanese standards, the bed was comfortable, and the shower was a decent size. Having a washer-dryer combo in the room saved us a lot of time.

The location was great, and having a washer-dryer in the room was handy. It came with one sachet of washing liquid, and umbrellas were available to borrow at reception. The furnishings felt a bit cheap, though, and the AC was noisy enough to make sleeping difficult. Also, without paying for a view room, our window faced a wall about 80 cm away, so there was no natural light.

The location and design were fine, and the person at reception during check-in was friendly. But despite my spouse reserving a smoke-free room, we were given a smoking room. When we raised it, staff were dismissive and said no other rooms were available. We asked about a refund, and they proposed a cancellation fee equal to the entire stay plus another $20 USD. My wife eventually resolved it through the bank, with no help from the hotel. The room was disgusting, and the staff experience wasn’t any better. Maybe it could be fine if you avoid that kind of room, but if you have another option in your budget, avoid this place at all costs.

The staff at B:CONTE were friendly, helpful, and respectful, and they even looked after our luggage after checkout while we took a day trip and found somewhere else to stay. We wanted to add another night as soon as we saw the room, but they had no vacancy, which was down to our poor planning. My wife and I were visiting Japan for the first time, and Asakusa felt like a dream, lively and relaxed at once. The hotel was an easy 12-minute walk from Asakusa station, less if you walk fast. It’s a straight route lined with tempting shops and restaurants, manageable even with suitcases. Check-in was easy, and our compact room was sleek, intuitive, and comfortable to share. The washer-dryer and AC/heater worked really well. If Japanese isn’t your second language, Google Translate can help with the appliances. The shower pressure was great, there was enough storage, and coffee options were affordable. Just outside is the Orange Room, a garage door painted like an Orange Amp by day and a Heavy Metal Bar at night, appearing like a nocturnal flower. Don Quijote and Uniqlo Clothing are both two blocks away. Uniqlo was a 5/5 experience on its own. We’ll definitely stay at B:CONTE again on our next Japan visit!