APA Hotel Ueno Ekikita

This hotel is widely recognized for its compact yet well-equipped rooms, offering a practical and efficient stay typical of Tokyo accommodations. Its signature feature is its convenient proximity to Ueno Station, making it an excellent base for sightseers and budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the city's cultural attractions and transit hubs. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness and the functional design of its spaces. For solo travelers or business travelers, the rooms provide adequate comfort and amenities for short stays. To make the most of your visit, it is advisable to pack light due to limited room space, and be prepared for potential waits for the single elevator, especially during peak hours.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of essential facilities, though some aspects receive mixed feedback. A significant point of discussion among guests is the presence of only one elevator for all 14 floors, which frequently leads to considerable waiting times, particularly during busy periods. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests reported it to be erratic or slow at times. Rooms are equipped with a large TV that supports casting, allowing guests to enjoy their own entertainment. A public microwave and vending machines are also available for convenience. Many guests noted the absence of an in-house laundry room, requiring them to use external laundromats located a short walk away. The air conditioning system is centrally controlled, which some guests found unadjustable, leading to rooms being either too warm or too cool. Some guests noted the presence of an onsen on the top floor, offering a relaxing option.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, though the room size is consistently described as very small and cramped, often making it challenging to open more than one suitcase. The beds and pillows receive mixed reviews; some guests found them comfortable and soft, while others described them as too soft, too firm, or causing neck discomfort. Overall, rooms are reported to be clean and well-maintained, with many appreciating the precise care in cleaning. However, some guests reported specific issues such as dust, stains on surfaces, or mold in the bathroom. The bathroom itself is frequently noted as tiny and cramped, with some experiencing slow drainage in the sink or tub, and a noisy ventilation fan. Noise levels are a recurring concern, with many guests reporting being able to hear traffic noise from the nearby motorway or trains, and some noting thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding the hotel's dining options, particularly breakfast, is largely minimal or negative. Most guests found the buffet breakfast to be very basic, with limited variety and choices, often described as minimal and not worth the cost. Some noted that food items were not replenished adequately, especially later in the morning, and that the dining area lacked a sense of cleanliness. While an udon shop is available on-site, offering a specific menu, the overall consensus suggests that guests might find better and more varied dining options outside the hotel. The hotel does have a restaurant downstairs, but detailed feedback on its general offerings beyond breakfast is limited.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant draw for many guests, positioning it conveniently close to Ueno Station, which offers excellent access to various train and metro lines, including the Skyliner for airport transfers. While generally considered "close," many guests clarify that it requires a 7-15 minute walk from the main station exits, which can feel longer with luggage. The hotel is well-situated for exploring popular attractions such as Ueno Park, the zoo, museums, and the cherry blossom park. It also provides reasonable walking access to the Ameyoko shopping area, Asakusa, and Akihabara. The immediate surrounding area is described as quiet, with a few convenience stores and local eateries nearby, though some guests noted a limited selection of dining choices directly adjacent to the hotel.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many guests highlighted their politeness, efficiency, and willingness to assist with various requests, including luggage storage before check-in and after check-out, and even helping to arrange taxis. The check-in and check-out processes are often described as easy, quick, and smooth, facilitated by self-service kiosks. However, some guests reported negative experiences, including instances of staff arguments, unhelpful or inflexible responses to requests like extra pillows, or strict adherence to policies regarding luggage access. While housekeeping is generally efficient in providing daily amenities like fresh towels and robes, some guests noted inconsistencies in thoroughness or specific cleaning requests.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain hotel policies and features that may impact their stay. The hotel has strict early check-in and late check-out policies, often incurring an hourly fee, which some guests found inflexible. A recurring concern is the presence of a cigarette smell in the lobby and occasionally in rooms, which can be off-putting for non-smokers. The hotel does not have an in-house coin laundry, requiring guests to use external laundromats. Room temperatures are controlled by a centralized air conditioning system, which means individual room temperature adjustments are not possible. Some guests noted the absence of USB charging outlets in the rooms. The hotel offers a luggage shipping service, which many guests found very helpful for onward travel.