Chuo Ward Vacations from $3,364

The location is super convenient for the bus terminal but a decent walk from the train station. Alternatively it's a 5-10 minute bus ride through the slow, slow traffic (everyone seems to drive in Kumamoto!). There is no key card reader in the elevator, so basically anyone can wander onto your floor if they look like they might be a guest (there are a lot of staff in the lobby, but even so, not the most secure!). The Japanese staff were very polite, and the Chinese-speaking staff were very polite by Chinese standards, which is not quite the same, but fine with me. I can imagine they get complaints from Japanese travellers, though. I didn't try the buffet breakfast, but I probably would next time as there are limited breakfast options nearby. There is free coffee available, although the impression I got is that it was no longer free during breakfast. The rooms were large and comfortable but cleaning was not the best. There was a layer of dust on everything such as the TV and along the skirting behind the bed, and a sticky ring from a glass on the desk. I found an (unused) menbo on the chair. Overall the impression I got was that cleaning was rushed but not terrible by any means. I was using a bus a lot on this trip, so it was very convenient. If I were doing that again, I'd probably stay here again.

One of my favorite hotels in Kumamoto. If they provided a self-service laundry facility, it would be my most favorite

Loved this hotel so much! My stay in Osaka and Tokyo pale in comparison to it. The bed was fluffy and just soft like I like my beds. The room was spacious with a proper area to eat. Shower and toilet were tucked away but both big places for a plus size person like me. Loved the location. Loved all the amenities. Highly recommend if you’re planning to stay in Kumamoto. It was pricey but worth it.