APA Hotel Yamagata Tsuruoka Ekimae

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional proximity to the train station, making it an ideal choice for train travelers and sightseers looking for convenient access to transportation and local attractions. Guests frequently highlight the comfortable beds, the attentive staff, and the overall cleanliness of the premises as key strengths. The presence of large in-room televisions also adds to the guest experience. For business travelers, the hotel's central location and well-equipped rooms provide a practical base. While the hotel offers many positives, some guests noted potential noise from adjacent rooms or corridors, suggesting that light sleepers might consider requesting a quieter room. Additionally, guests are advised to clarify air conditioning settings upon check-in, as temperature control can sometimes be centrally managed, impacting individual comfort.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests generally find the hotel's facilities to be well-maintained, though some areas receive mixed feedback. While the Wi-Fi is available, several guests reported it to be slow or unstable, particularly during peak hours, which could be a concern for those relying on a strong internet connection. The hotel provides laundry machines for guest use, but their limited number and location near the reception area can sometimes lead to inconvenience or a lack of privacy. A notable absence for many guests is a large public bath or sauna, which some travelers typically expect in Japanese hotels. On the positive side, the hotel offers a secure environment with a card access system for elevators, enhancing guest safety. In-room amenities are comprehensive, including large televisions, free video-on-demand, and complimentary bottled water, contributing to a comfortable stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for its cleanliness, with guests frequently commending the well-maintained rooms and bathrooms. The beds are a standout feature, described as exceptionally comfortable and ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests found them to be too soft. Room size elicits mixed opinions; while some single travelers found their rooms adequately spacious, many guests, especially those traveling in pairs, noted the rooms felt small and cramped, with limited space for luggage. A recurring concern is noise from adjacent rooms, corridors, or elevators, which can be disruptive for light sleepers. Furthermore, the air conditioning system, which is centrally controlled, often leads to rooms being uncomfortably warm, prompting some guests to request fans. Despite the overall cleanliness, some guests reported issues with smoking smell lingering even in non-smoking areas, and occasional minor issues with bathroom fixtures or drainage odors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast service garners generally positive reviews, with many guests appreciating the quality and taste of the food, including local specialties. While some found the variety to be somewhat limited, the overall consensus points to a satisfying start to the day. A particular highlight for several guests is the hotel's signature curry, which is frequently praised for its delicious flavor. The breakfast area is noted for its pleasant atmosphere, and staff are often commended for their energetic and helpful service. For other dining options, guests benefit from the hotel's location, with numerous restaurants and izakayas within easy walking distance, providing a wide array of choices for lunch and dinner. Some guests mentioned that the breakfast, while good, felt a bit expensive for the offerings, suggesting a slight discrepancy in perceived value.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location directly in front of the train station is its most significant advantage, making it exceptionally convenient for train travelers and those utilizing public transport. Guests appreciate the ease of access to bus stops for major attractions and the airport, simplifying day trips and arrivals. The proximity to shopping centers like S-Mall and various convenience stores, including NewDays at the station, adds to the convenience for daily needs. Furthermore, a wide selection of restaurants and izakayas are just a short walk away, ensuring diverse dining options. However, a notable drawback is the parking situation; the hotel does not offer free on-site parking, requiring guests to use nearby paid coin-operated lots. These lots can be expensive and challenging to find available spots, especially during peak times, which is a significant consideration for guests arriving by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Guests frequently highlight the staff's willingness to assist with inquiries and accommodate requests, such as facilitating room changes when possible. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as smooth and efficient, allowing guests to quickly settle in or depart without unnecessary delays. Many reviews commend the staff's polite and professional demeanor, noting their commitment to providing excellent service from arrival to departure. Specific mentions include quick assistance with in-room amenities like phone chargers and diligent housekeeping for consecutive stays, ensuring rooms remain comfortable. Overall, the staff's dedication to guest satisfaction is a recurring theme, making visitors feel welcomed and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that despite efforts, some reviews indicate a persistent smoking smell throughout the hotel, even on non-smoking floors, which can be a concern for sensitive individuals. This issue is sometimes attributed to the hotel's layout or central air conditioning system. The property is noted to be a renovated former hotel, meaning while many areas appear modern and clean, some older fixtures or structural elements may still be present. On a positive note, the hotel offers complimentary video-on-demand in rooms, providing a wide selection of movies and shows for entertainment. Some guests also appreciated receiving a complimentary curry gift upon check-in. Additionally, the hotel provides a unique pillow selection option, allowing guests to choose a pillow that best suits their comfort preferences for a better night's sleep.