APA HOTEL ASAKUSA KURAMAE, Tokyo

The hotel sits in a quiet residential area of Asakusa, a 10-minute walk from Sensoji Temple and the Asakusa Station area. Oshiage Station (Skytree) is 2 km away, and Tokyo Disney Resort is about 18 km. Haneda Airport is a 45-minute drive, while direct trains from Narita take about 60-75 minutes. The immediate neighbourhood offers several restaurants, a 7-Eleven across the street, and a bus stop right outside. The area is walkable to many cultural sites and provides a calm retreat from busier tourist zones.

Rooms are typical of APA Hotels - efficient and well-equipped but very compact, particularly challenging for two people with large luggage. Double rooms have one bed, while twin rooms offer two separate beds. All rooms have windows, though some face walls rather than views. The bathroom is a unit-bath style (toilet and bath integrated) and can flood if the shower head is used at full force. Noise isolation is decent, but rooms near the elevator or on lower floors may hear street or hallway sounds. Daily housekeeping is available (free), and fresh towels and amenities are left in a bag if you opt out of daily cleaning. No storage space exists under the beds, so luggage may need to be placed on available floor or desk space. Irons are available for loan.

The breakfast buffet costs 2000 JPY per person and offers a rotating selection of Japanese and European items, including breads, rice dishes, and occasionally tempura. The restaurant space is small and can feel cramped at peak times. For other meals, the hotel has vending machines with drinks and a microwave. The surrounding area is rich with dining options, from okonomiyaki to traditional oden, all within a short walk. A 7-Eleven is directly opposite for quick snacks and drinks.

The bath is separated by gender and has an open-air component. The women's side has three shower stalls and can become busy in the evenings. Tattooed guests may use the bath if tattoos are covered with two complimentary stickers. Full-body massages are available for an additional charge. No swimming pool or dedicated spa centre is on site. The bath is a popular way to unwind after a day of exploring, and the views from the top floor add to the experience.

WiFi is free in all rooms and throughout the hotel. A 24-hour front desk can assist with luggage storage (free on the day of check-in/out), laundry needs (coin-operated on the 12th floor), and loan items like irons. Private parking costs ¥2000 per day and cannot be reserved. The hotel offers dry cleaning (additional charge) and photocopying (additional charge). Daily housekeeping is free; fresh towels and amenities are replenished even if the room is not cleaned. Safety features include 24-hour security, CCTV, key card access, and in-room safes. The entrance has steps, which may be inconvenient for those with large suitcases - no ramp is available.