Soemon-cho Vacations from $1,327

I booked this hotel some months ago and I started reading reviews prior to check in. I'll admit I got a bit nervous. That being said we decided to stay the night and try it out. First impressions were that there was more space than many rooms we've stayed in while in Japan. Many features look newish and it has a full kitchen. Then things get weird. The wall paper is peeling off. There's a persistent bad smell. There's roach traps everywhere. I tried to shower and the shower nozzle fell off. My husband tried to leave to do a Lawson run and the latch on the lock fell off. The beds were surprisingly comfortable but it's also loud in the morning with people talking in the alleyway. It was fine for the night but I wouldn't stay here again.

The room has washer and dryer. It also has a small kitchen you can cook a little.

We had a wonderful stay during our Japan trip and truly appreciated. The location is excellent—set in a quiet area yet within walking distance of nearby landmarks, which made exploring very easy. It’s a great balance between convenience and relaxation. The staff were incredibly friendly and thoughtful, and there were no issues communicating in English. They even contacted us in advance to confirm our estimated arrival time, allowing us to drop off our luggage before check-in, which was very helpful. The room was very well maintained and beautifully designed. We especially loved how it blends traditional Japanese elements with modern style. The heated floor in bathroom and living area were a standout feature and made the stay exceptionally comfortable. Overall, a warm, comfortable, and thoughtfully run hotel—highly recommended for anyone visiting Japan.