APA HOTEL HIGASHI SHINJUKU EKIMAE, Tokyo

The hotel sits on Meiji Dori Avenue in Shinjuku, offering direct access to two metro lines and a 10-minute walk to JR Shinjuku Station. Kabukicho's entertainment district is 5 minutes away, while Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Waseda University are a 10-minute drive. Haneda Airport is a 45-minute subway ride; there is no shuttle from Narita or Haneda - take an airport bus to Shinjuku then taxi or metro. The area is lively and safe, with numerous convenience stores and restaurants within a few minutes' walk. The road can bring ambulance noise, so rooms facing away from the street are quieter.

All rooms feature an original weight-distribution mattress, flat-screen TV with video-on-demand, free WiFi, and amenities including yukata robes, slippers, and toiletries. Twin rooms have two beds but are very small - best suited for solo travellers or couples who plan to spend most time out. Some rooms have windows that open for fresh air. Noise from the street and ambulances can be audible; road-facing rooms are noisier. The single elevator can cause delays. Overall, the accommodation is practical for short, location-focused stays rather than extended relaxation.

The breakfast buffet includes Japanese and American items but is limited in variety and replenishment - items often run out after 08:30 and are not restocked. The restaurant also serves Chinese and Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner (additional cost), and a kid-friendly buffet option is available. Halal compatibility is not guaranteed for all dishes. For guests seeking more choice, many convenience stores and eateries are within a short walk, which can be used as a backup.

The hotel offers payable massage treatments that can be requested at the front desk. There is no pool, gym, onsen, or spa facility, so wellness options are limited to massage only. This makes the property more suited for city exploration than for a relaxation-focused stay.

The hotel provides practical services: a 24-hour front desk for late arrivals, free luggage storage (not overnight), coin-operated laundry in the basement (500 yen wash, 100 yen per 30 minutes drying), and a shared microwave. A trouser press can be borrowed at no charge, and dry cleaning is available for a fee. Safety deposit boxes, key card access, and 24-hour security are provided. Business facilities (fax/photocopying) are available for an additional charge. Early check-in from 12:00 costs 1000 JPY per hour. The single elevator may cause delays. The hotel is non-smoking throughout and does not accept pets.