Our hotel looks a bit run down from the outside. But it was situated on a main thoroughfare with a bus top at its doorstep. Hence, going to/from Niigata station was Y210 and 7-9 minutes. Taxi Y800+, You could walk it for 23-25 minutes to soak in the atmosphere. The river side walk, the bridges, the rainbow tower etc...We walked on 2 occasions once at night too. We felt safe throughout. All in all this little hotel is excellent value for its money. If you don't expect 5 star-ness. This is certainly a good buy. The staff very helpful though their command of the English language was really poor. I give them10/10 for trying. As to the amenities we are ambivalent as the room was pint-sized with little room for creature comfort. No iron available should you want to iron, yet a trouser press was available when you need it.