APA Hotel Ueno Ekimae

This hotel is in a great location with train (JR), Narita Airport Express and Metro stations all within 5 - 10 minutes walk. The rooms are ‘compact’ which is the norm for many hotels in Japan but I found the rooms very clean and comfortable with good wifi access. My wife pointed out that our cases could be stored under the bed which gave us a more space. Clean towels and robes were supplied each day - hung on the door for you every morning and you just leave your used ones in a bag for them to collect outside…..this took a day or two for me to work out. The reception staff got by with their limited English and were very efficient checking me in to my 2 rooms - which was much appreciated after a long flight. I know some feedback from other reviews suggest they are rude but I think with limited English they are better off being direct and may not have the friendly banter some might expect…perhaps if our Japanese was better we would have a better feel for the service they are providing. The other bonus to this hotel is it’s onsen on the top floor. This is a great opportunity for anybody that might be a little shy to have a go at this very Japanese experience in the relative privacy of a hotel. It has an indoor and outdoor bath which was hugely welcome after a full day of walking. It is my second time in Tokyo and chose to be based out of Ueno as there are a very good selection of shops and restaurants in the area, with Ueno Park and it’s attractions just on the doorstep! We did not have breakfast in the hotel (the breakfast room was rather small so availability would have been an issue at peak times) but there is a Douty Coffee Shop right next door and a 7/11 2 mins away with the usual convenient selection. I would agree with many that location is the biggest draw to this hotel but I enjoyed my 5 night stay and would definitely consider returning.

Stayed 3 nights in early Dec 2023 in a standard room. Room is very clean and small, but a good size for one person (though 2 may be a squeeze). For the price, was very happy to see the room had climate control (set to heating because it’s winter) and full set of toiletries! The sento was also much appreciated (male and female sides are separate). My room was facing the main road but it’s quiet, not much noise so that was nice. Breakfast is simple Japanese style, but there’s a Doutor right next door if sandwiches and coffee are more your style. Location is good and very near Ueno station. There’s an entrance for Ginza and Hibiya subway lines right outside the hotel and it’s about 5-10 mins walk to Ameyoko and the JR side of Ueno station. Would definitely stay here again!