APA Hotel Tokyo Itabashi Ekimae

This hotel is highly regarded for its excellent train access, making it an ideal choice for sightseers, business travelers, and budget-conscious travelers seeking cost-effective stays with functional rooms in Tokyo. Its signature feature is its proximity to Itabashi Station, offering direct and quick connections to major hubs like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro. While many guests appreciate the convenience, the rooms are consistently described as quite compact, often posing a challenge for those with multiple large suitcases. Guests should be prepared for the limited space and consider the season, as the centralized air conditioning system can sometimes lead to rooms feeling too warm, potentially requiring windows to be opened, which may introduce some train noise.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities to enhance guest convenience, including free Wi-Fi throughout the property. In-room toiletries are well-stocked and replenished, and many guests appreciate the availability of Video On Demand (VOD) for entertainment. For laundry needs, a coin-operated laundromat is available, though some guests have noted it can be old and inefficient, requiring longer drying times. While there are vending machines on site, some have been reported as out of stock. Parking is offered, but it is limited to a few spots and can be expensive, with some guests finding the information provided about it to be unclear.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. While some guests find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, others report issues such as dust, dirty carpets, uncleaned bathtubs with a gritty feel, and even a lingering cigarette smell in non-smoking rooms. The compact rooms are a recurring theme, with twin beds often placed side-by-side, leaving minimal space for movement or luggage. Most guests find the beds comfortable, though some describe the mattresses as too soft or sagging. Noise levels can be a concern, with reports of thin walls allowing sounds from adjacent rooms and corridors to be heard, and train noise being noticeable, especially if windows are opened. The centralized air conditioning system is a frequent point of contention, as guests cannot control the temperature individually, often leading to rooms feeling too warm. The bathroom facilities are generally functional, but some guests have noted them to be old, with dim lighting, broken bidets, clogged basins, or peeling wallpaper.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet at the hotel receives considerable praise, particularly for its diverse offerings. Many guests highlight the excellent Indian cuisine, featuring various types of curry and freshly baked naan, along with beverages like lassi. The buffet also includes a selection of Japanese options and Western dishes, ensuring a variety of choices. Guests often find the breakfast to be good value for the price, with fresh ingredients and flavorful preparations. The main restaurant on the third floor, which serves the breakfast, is noted for its pleasant atmosphere, including views of the train platform. Additionally, a coffee shop near the lobby offers a cozy setting and serves Taiwanese food.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, situated directly next to Itabashi Station on the Saikyo line, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Tokyo. Guests appreciate the quick and direct access to major areas, with Ikebukuro just one stop away, and Shinjuku and Shibuya easily reachable within a few stops. The surrounding area, though residential, is well-equipped with numerous convenience stores (including Lawson and FamilyMart), large supermarkets like Maruetsu, and a variety of restaurants, ranging from fast food like McDonald's to local izakayas and international cuisine. This ensures guests have easy access to daily necessities and dining options right outside the hotel.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives positive feedback for their friendly service, politeness, and attentiveness. Many guests commend their helpfulness, particularly with requests such as luggage assistance, room upgrades, or guiding through the self-check-in process. While the check-in procedure is designed to be quick with automated machines, some guests have experienced longer waits or found certain staff members to be less hospitable or overwhelmed. Housekeeping services are available, with daily replenishment of towels and toiletries, though some guests have noted inconsistencies, such as not replacing bed linens or knocking loudly. The hotel also offers convenient services like luggage storage and, for members, late check-out options.

Additional Information
The hotel's age is a recurring theme in guest feedback, with many noting its dated facilities and signs of wear, suggesting a need for renovation. Despite this, the hotel maintains a generally functional environment. A specific cleaning policy dictates that full room cleaning occurs every three days, which some guests find inconvenient, as they may prefer daily service or find the process disruptive. Guests should also be aware that rooms typically do not include an in-room safe for valuables. A unique aspect mentioned by some guests is the presence of the CEO's books and photos on water bottles in the rooms, which some find an unusual touch. For frequent visitors, the rewards program benefits are appreciated, offering perks like extended check-out times.