Hotel Marutani

The hotel's most distinctive feature is its convenient location in the vibrant Ueno district, offering immediate access to the bustling Ameyoko market and major transit hubs, complemented by the unique amenity of a public bath. This combination makes it an excellent choice for sightseers eager to explore the city's attractions and business travelers seeking easy connectivity. The hotel also appeals to families with its accommodating room types and helpful staff, and couples looking for a lively urban experience. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to assist. To enhance your stay, consider bringing your own portable Wi-Fi device, as in-room connectivity can be unreliable, and be aware that rooms may experience some noise from the surrounding entertainment area, especially at night.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a distinctive public bath that many guests appreciate, often available for extended hours, providing a relaxing soak after a day of exploration. However, some guests have noted that the bath area could benefit from more consistent maintenance, with occasional observations of cloudy mirrors, rust, or floating substances, and the sauna sometimes being out of order. A significant point of feedback concerns the Wi-Fi, which is frequently reported as unreliable or non-functional in guest rooms, often requiring guests to use the lobby Wi-Fi or their own mobile hotspots. The lobby itself is spacious and comfortable, offering hot water, free drinks, and snacks. Other in-room amenities like the fridge and air conditioning have received mixed reviews, with some guests reporting them as non-functional or difficult to control. Laundry facilities are available, though some wish for more than one or two washing machines.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. Many guests find their rooms to be clean and well-maintained, noting that housekeeping is attentive and thorough. However, a notable number of reviews describe rooms as dirty, citing issues such as filthy carpets, dust under beds, and sticky residues. The bathrooms are a particular area of concern for some, with reports of mold on shower curtains, tubs, and sinks, as well as cracks and a persistent unpleasant smell. Rooms are generally described as old and outdated, reflecting the hotel's age. While some guests found the beds comfortable and spacious, others reported them as painfully hard or very firm, with thin pillows. Noise levels are also mixed, with some finding the hotel quiet, while others experienced street noise, car noise, or sounds from the hallway and nearby highway.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding dining options at the hotel is somewhat limited, with some guests noting that breakfast was not included in their stay or was not available. For those who experienced it, the Japanese set meal breakfast is generally described as delicious and satisfying, offering a good start to the day. The hotel's prime location in a bustling area means guests have abundant food options right outside their door, with numerous restaurants and eateries available within easy walking distance. Many of these establishments remain open late, providing convenient choices for evening meals. The hotel does not appear to offer extensive in-house dining beyond breakfast, nor is there frequent mention of a dedicated bar or room service. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the diverse culinary scene surrounding the property.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly praised as its strongest asset, offering unparalleled convenience for guests. Situated directly within the vibrant Ameyoko shopping district, it provides immediate access to a plethora of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Guests highlight its close proximity to major transit hubs, including Ueno Station (JR, Keisei, and subway lines) and Okachimachi Station, making it incredibly easy to navigate Tokyo and access the airport. Popular attractions such as Ueno Park and the Ueno Zoo are within comfortable walking distance. While the surrounding area is lively and can be noisy, particularly at night due to the entertainment district, most guests find the convenience outweighs this. Parking is available, though some guests note that nearby coin parking can be expensive.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests, standing out as a significant positive aspect of the stay. Reviewers frequently describe the staff as exceptionally polite, friendly, helpful, and accommodating. They are noted for their willingness to go above and beyond, assisting with various requests such as arranging luggage forwarding, providing directions, or lending phone chargers. The check-in and check-out processes are reported to be smooth and efficient, contributing to a hassle-free experience. Guests also appreciate the staff's attentiveness to housekeeping, ensuring rooms are kept clean daily. The overall impression is that the staff's warm and dedicated approach significantly enhances the guest experience, making visitors feel welcomed and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several unique aspects that contribute to the hotel's character and value. Despite its age, the hotel is frequently cited for its excellent cost-effectiveness, offering a budget-friendly option in a prime location. A distinctive key policy requires guests to leave their room key at the front desk every time they exit the hotel, a practice some find inconvenient. The hotel offers a selection of free beauty products in the lobby, including cleansers and lotions, which guests can take for personal use. For families, specific glamping rooms are available, providing a unique stay experience, though they can be cramped for larger groups and may lack additional bedding for children. While the hotel does not provide bottled drinking water in rooms, guests are advised that tap water is potable.