Sakura Garden Hotel

It’s a peaceful area with plenty of small local restaurants, and getting around is easy from Asakusabashi Station, just a three-minute walk away. The place itself was lovely, clean, and spacious, in a local-feeling but convenient spot.

The air conditioner in the double mattress room was awful. It was summer, around 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the room was way too hot. I contacted the woman at the desk, but pressing buttons on the remote didn’t help. A hotel shouldn’t leave guests at risk of heat stroke.

The room was clean and check-in was easy. There are lots of good restaurants nearby, and the bakery across the street is great. It’s within walking distance of Akihabara, and close to both Metro and JR rail. Being near the station means you’ll hear trains coming and going. If you’re a light sleeper, you might end up counting them to fall asleep.

The rooms have a lovely, consistent design, and the price isn’t much more than a regular hotel. The owner (?) let us in a few minutes before check-in, which was nice. Just make sure you read the access instructions carefully. There are two free washing machines on the 6th floor, but the elevator only goes to the 5th, so it’s two flights of stairs. You can dry clothes on the shared terrace clothesline, though there are no clothespins, so bring some or buy them. The elevator is small, with room for only two people and their luggage to fit comfortably. It’s quick, though, and there’s no traffic, so you won’t wait long if you need to split into two groups to reach your floor. I’d highly recommend staying here and would come back.