APA Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi

This hotel is a popular choice for travelers, distinguished by its public onsen, offering a unique and relaxing experience after a day of exploration. Its central location near the main train station is a significant draw, making it highly convenient for train travelers and sightseers eager to explore the city's attractions. While the room sizes are notably compact, guests consistently praise the hotel's overall cleanliness and the efficiency of its services. The hotel is well-suited for solo travelers and business travelers seeking convenience and good value, though couples should be mindful of the limited space. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the public bath, and be prepared for the compact room dimensions by packing efficiently.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a highly appreciated public onsen, providing a relaxing and authentic Japanese bathing experience for guests, often equipped with both indoor and outdoor options. While some guests noted the absence of a cold pool or sauna, the onsen is generally well-maintained and clean, though it can become crowded during peak hours. For added convenience, a Lawson convenience store is directly attached to the hotel, offering easy access to snacks and essentials, although its selection is somewhat limited. A laundry room with coin-operated washer/dryers is available, which many guests found useful, though machines can be frequently occupied. Wi-Fi connectivity receives mixed reviews, with some finding it fast and stable, while others experienced issues, particularly with PC connections. The elevators can also be quite busy, leading to occasional waits during peak check-out times.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is somewhat mixed. While many reviews commend the overall cleanliness of the rooms and common areas, some guests reported issues such as dust, stains on curtains or sheets, and even a strong cigarette smell in non-smoking rooms. The room sizes are consistently described as small, compact, or tiny, often making it challenging to move around or open luggage, especially for two people. The beds receive varied comments, with some finding them comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, while others found them too soft or worn. Bathrooms are noted for being tiny and sometimes having a steep step, which can be a tripping hazard. A recurring concern is the centrally controlled air conditioning, which lacks individual room adjustment, leading to rooms being either too warm or too cold, prompting some guests to open windows, which can introduce street noise or outside odors.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet at the hotel consistently receives high praise from guests, often highlighted as a standout feature. It offers an extensive buffet with a wide variety of both Japanese and Western options, ensuring there is something to suit every palate. Popular items include freshly prepared omelets, the hotel's signature curry, and local delicacies like fried momiji manju and anago rice. Guests frequently describe the food as delicious and of good value. While the breakfast area can become crowded, especially during peak hours, leading to occasional queues for seating, the staff generally manages the flow efficiently. The hotel also features on-site restaurants, including an okonomiyaki place, though some guests found the dining experience there to be less satisfying than expected.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it highly accessible for various types of travelers. It is conveniently situated within a short 5 to 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Station, providing easy access to the Shinkansen and other train lines. Its proximity to tram stops and the tourist loop bus further enhances mobility around the city. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of major attractions such as the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and various downtown shopping and dining areas. While some guests noted that the immediate vicinity might not have an abundance of dining options, the station area offers plenty. Parking is available, though it can be limited and challenging to secure during busy periods.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, noting their willingness to assist with various requests, from luggage handling to providing local information. The check-in process receives mixed reviews; while some guests found the automated machine-based system to be quick and smooth, others found it complicated or long-winded, often requiring staff assistance. Despite the automation, staff are generally present to guide guests through the process. Overall, the team is described as polite and patient, contributing positively to the guest experience, even when faced with language barriers or technical difficulties.

Additional Information
The hotel is widely regarded as offering good value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Guests appreciate the convenience of luggage storage services, allowing them to explore the city before check-in or after check-out without their bags. Some reviews mention the availability of smoking rooms, which, while catering to smokers, can lead to strong lingering odors that some non-smoking guests found unpleasant. The in-room TV features are a notable amenity, often providing useful information about hotel facilities, such as onsen occupancy, and offering a selection of free movies, enhancing the in-room entertainment experience.