Via Inn Higashiginza

The room was compact, as you'd expect in Tokyo, but thoughtfully laid out. We were a couple with three large suitcases and still managed comfortably. It felt modern, cozy, and very clean. The bed worked well for two, the air conditioning was great, and there was a fridge and TV. The TV was Chromecast-friendly. There aren't many power outlets, so a travel adapter with several USB ports would help. The bathroom was fantastic, with strong water pressure, instant hot water, a comfortable shower and bath, and the usual Japanese toilet features. Breakfast was excellent, mostly Japanese and Asian with enough Western choices too. The food tasted fresh and healthy, with fish, eggs, fruit, pastries, and a well-chosen selection. It wasn't an overwhelming buffet, and we never had trouble finding seats. Toiletries, tea, coffee, and other amenities were available by the elevators on the reception floor, so we could just take what we needed. Getting around was easy, with several metro stations and lines within walking distance. The area felt modern, busy, and very safe, with restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and lots of shopping, including luxury boutiques. Lawson is almost next door, and 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are nearby. Tokyo Station was about a 25-minute walk. From Narita, getting there was surprisingly manageable once we got through the station maze. Higashi-Ginza Station is also within easy walking distance and has direct trains to both Haneda and Narita via the through-running Asakusa, Keikyu, and Keisei lines. There are no complicated transfers, travel takes up to around 90 minutes depending on the airport and service, and it's significantly cheaper than options like the Narita Express. Getting settled took a little figuring out because reception is on the 2nd floor, not the ground floor, so you have to take the elevator or stairs. After that, it was straightforward. Check-in is done at a self-service machine, though the attentive staff practically handled the process for us. We stayed May 5-8, and the hotel exceeded our expectations from beginning to end. For what we paid, it was excellent value. I'd absolutely stay again and highly recommend it.

The room was spacious, very clean, modern, and had a bit of a view. There's a good selection of eateries around the hotel, though the nearest train station takes a little walking to reach. Tsukiji market is just diagonally across the way if you're visiting. Highly recommended!

Check-in and checkout were both easy, and the staff were courteous and well trained, with traditional Japanese values. It's a dependable business hotel, and the breakfast was great. Good work JR!

Housekeeping left fresh towels by the door when we put up the DND sign, which was thoughtful. The room was an okay size, but there was only one outlet by the bed and one at the desk. Every so often, the vents made a clicking sound. The bathroom was small, with the sink overlapping the large tub a bit. The shower head holders were broken, which made showering difficult. The hotel FAQ said staff could help call a taxi, but I was told to go outside and call one myself. I'd be better off at another hotel with better service, showers, and a quieter room.