Candeo Hotels Utsunomiya

There are four washing machines and four dryers on level 14, where the sauna and onsens are also located. A wash costs 200 yen for 40 minutes, and drying is 100 yen per 25-minute period. There’s a microwave there as well. Room servicing is daily, either full or partial, with towels changed and bins emptied. Our room was large, looked over the station, and had everything we needed. Shops downstairs made it easy to pick up food and drinks. The hotel entrance connects directly to the train station from either the ground or upper level. Check-in is on level 13, with a short elevator wait to a big lobby and lovely views. Check-in was easy, and extra amenities were available at reception. Breakfast is also on level 13, with plenty of Asian and Western choices. It was okay, though the mini ovens were very slow, and a rotary toaster would help. Western guests can ask staff for a knife and fork. Everything was super clean, and all the staff were really friendly. I’ll definitely book again.

I expected better service here, but was disappointed. In the hot summer, each guest gets just one 500ml bottle of water. When I asked reception for another, they firmly refused and said the hotel policy allows only one bottle. Hotels in Japan are often more generous and customer-oriented. Reception staff commonly arrange extra bottled water on request, sometimes delivering it to the room for free. I expected similar service here, but it fell short.

I was travelling alone for business and had a good stay. Room service was great, and there’s a sauna and spa on the top floor, though I didn’t use them. The hotel is close to Utsunomiya railway station, with dining and shopping options at the base of the building.

I used the hot bath every day, and breakfast on the 13th floor by reception had a wide variety. The hotel is in an excellent location with a spacious room. You can enter from level 1 or 2. I came in through level 2 after arriving by Shinkansen.